A growing workforce needs places to call home. For Buffalo County, housing plays a direct role in our ability to recruit employees, retain families, support businesses, and strengthen our communities.
That connection is why the Development Council for Buffalo County is leading Build Buffalo County, an initiative to understand housing needs and identify practical ways to encourage development.
“Housing has consistently emerged as one of the most important issues affecting economic growth, workforce recruitment, community development, and quality of life throughout Buffalo County,” said Trevor Lee, President of the Development Council for Buffalo County.
Build Buffalo County will bring together research and the experience of people working in residential development to create a shared roadmap for action.
The process has three parts:
Understand the need. A countywide housing analysis will examine existing homes, population trends, vacancies, construction activity, and future demand.
Hear from housing professionals. Confidential surveys and follow-up conversations with developers, builders, contractors, and specialty trades will explore what affects development costs, timelines, and feasibility—and where local improvements could help.
Turn findings into action. Research and feedback will guide short- and long-term recommendations, with proposed actions, responsible partners, expected impacts, and anticipated timelines. Potential areas include infrastructure, financing, development processes, and construction capacity.
The initiative draws on funding, support, and technical assistance from NIFA’s Communities for Housing program and Development Council investors.
Our goal is to help communities and private-sector partners make informed decisions that expand housing opportunities and support continued economic growth.
