PIMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KVOA) – Pima County Board of Supervisors has approved a landmark initiative to tackle the affordable housing crisis by allocating $200 million over the next decade.
The decision includes an $8.5 million allocation for the upcoming fiscal year and establishes a commitment of at least $200 million beginning in Fiscal Year 2026-27. This funding will not increase primary property tax rates, said County Administrator Jan Lesher.
“This historic plan will significantly expand affordable housing across Pima County and help people stay safely housed,” said District 2 Supervisor Dr. Matt Heinz. He emphasized that the initiative is a response to the community’s call for action amid a national affordable housing crisis.
Preliminary findings from an ongoing Pima County Housing Study indicate a need for an additional 116,000 housing units over the next 20 years, with nearly half required for lower-income families. The County is coordinating a Regional Housing Strategy and Funding Plan to address these needs.
Since July 2022, the Board has invested nearly $16 million in gap funding for 19 projects, supporting the development or preservation of 1,332 affordable housing units. These projects cater to both homeownership and rental properties.
Sofia Blue, affordable housing division manager, highlighted the crucial role of gap funding in bridging financial shortfalls for developers. “Without that support and local financial backing, some of these projects might not happen at all,” Blue said.
Pima County’s multi-departmental strategy includes Community and Workforce Development leading housing development efforts, Development Services overseeing planning and zoning, and Real Property Services managing development on County-owned land. These efforts align with the Board-approved Prosperity Initiative to reduce generational poverty.