FIVE MINUTES WITH STEVEN

HAND is excited to introduce our newest team member, Steven Palmer, who recently joined as the Director of Public Policy. With a rich background rooted in local government and law, Steven's deep understanding of policy and dedication to equitable housing solutions positions him perfectly to drive our mission forward. A native of Montgomery County, his journey from practicing at a DC law firm to roles within the DC Council have equipped him with a unique blend of skills and insights. Steven's commitment to focusing on specific issues to enact meaningful change will be invaluable as HAND continues to advocate for affordable housing across the Capital Region. If you would like to learn more about Steven, check out the dialogue below!

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

Testify to the DC Council about proposed changes to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) on November 15th, 2024  

On October 1st, the DC Council unanimously passed emergency and temporary legislation requiring documentation of income and other information in ERAP applications (instead of allowing for self-certification) and generally closing loopholes that needlessly delayed court proceedings. The Council’s Committee on Housing will be holding a public hearing on the permanent version of the legislation on November 15th, 2024 at 10:00 AM. More information and instructions on how to register to testify or submit testimony can be found here. Those wishing to testify must sign up by close of business on Wednesday, November 13th, 2024. Look out for more information soon from HAND about the bill and tips on testifying before the Council.

ERAP is one of the many policies in the HIT’s Housing Toolkit that our region uses to address its housing challenges. To learn more, you can access the HIT here.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Heat Pump and Electrification Solutions in Affordable Multifamily Housing: Lessons from the Field

We invite you to view the first installment of our three-part series exploring electrification and healthy housing solutions in multifamily affordable housing. In the recording, you will discover strategies for decarbonizing heating systems and the broader impact of electrification on communities of color through discussions with industry experts and a close look at Elevate’s project at Lake Grove Village Apartments.

As you delve into the webinar, see the intersection of these efforts with broader pursuits for environmental justice. Track the pulse of local sustainability policies in the HIT, which echoes our dedication to sharing effective strategies that are not just sustainable but also equitable, fostering healthier communities across our communities.

We extend our gratitude to all the speakers and National Housing Trust for their invaluable contributions. Don’t miss out on Parts II & III of this important environmental justice conversation. Get more info and register for the upcoming sessions focusing on ventilation and pests using the buttons below.

HIT 4.0 Is Live!

The HIT is a tool designed to support the production, preservation and protection of affordable housing throughout the region. It serves as an accountability tool and provides an opportunity to see what policies and programs other localities have in place that make it possible for them to reach their goals. Having open, accurate data is also an essential resource for: case-making with local officials, community members and stakeholders; strategic decision-making on investment and developments; and building greater awareness around our region’s housing challenges. We invite you to check out the HIT today!

A COLLECTIVE EFFORT

An all-hands-on-deck approach is required to deliver solutions that can solve for the housing affordability crisis. We encourage you to check out the resources below!

• Executive Summary
• HIT 4.0 Release Recording
• Launch Event Presentation
• HIT Calls to Action 
• HIT Resource Center

REQUEST A HIT DEMONSTRATION

Looking to take a deeper dive into your jurisdiction's data? You now have the opportunity to get familiar with the HIT through personalized demonstrations. Reach out to Steven at spalmer@handhousing.org and schedule a session tailored just for you and your team. Make the most out of the data and get in touch today!

The HIT Is Empowered By