Fall is often a time to think about renewal and gratitude. The beauty of the changing colors outside and shorter daylight reminds us that change is natural and that there is value in embracing new opportunities while letting go of others.

As we continue to administer federal resources in Washington County that support low-income people and communities, we're also adapting to change. This work has prompted us to reflect on the purpose behind our service and explore ways to improve our processes - making it easier for mission-driven organizations to apply for much-needed funding while meeting evolving federal requirements.

In our current application cycle, we had 15 organizations and local jurisdictions apply for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, underscoring the ongoing need for these resources. As you’ll see in this issue of our newsletter, we'll also have funding available for affordable homeownership assistance next month.

Much of this work is guided by our dedicated Policy Advisory Board, who you also get to learn more about in this issue, and hear directly from our Chair. We are grateful for the leadership of the Policy Advisory Board and for our shared commitment to improving the quality of life in Washington County communities.  

In partnership,

Shannon Wilson

Program Manager

The First Home Homeownership Program was created in 2022 under the umbrella of Washington County’s Housing Opportunity Production Fund. Since then, the program has provided affordable homeownership opportunities to first-time, low- and moderate-income homebuyers in Washington County. The program offers down payment assistance to individual homebuyers and community land trusts purchasing properties to create permanent affordability.

In addition to financial assistance, homebuyers complete a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified course on the homebuying process to help ensure long-term success. Several partner organizations offer additional education and hands-on experience to deepen knowledge of homeownership - such as how a home is constructed, where utility shutoffs are located, how to read a home's blueprint and more. 

Future homeowners learn how to read a blueprint with West Tuality Habitat for Humanity

The first two funding cycles released $3.9 million for administration by partner organizations. Proud Ground, West Tuality Habitat for Humanity, Portland Housing Center, and Habitat for Humanity Portland Metro Region were awarded funding though a competitive application process.

A total of 41 households received assistance to purchase a home, with an average of $60,849.76 in First Home Funding per household. The administering organizations also leveraged additional funding resources to provide the support their clients needed.

Assistance Utilized by Funding Source, Program Lifespan

The makeup of households assisted through this funding has varied widely - from young single parents with one child, to couples nearing retirement, to large families of five or more. Each household had an income between 35 and 99% of Washington County’s area median income.

This broad cross section of the community, along with additional support leveraged home purchase closing, illustrates, the ongoing need for down payment assistance to expand access to homeownership for low- and moderate-income individuals and families throughout the community.

With this need in mind, the Office of Community Development is proud to announce the opening of application for an additional $1,068,894 in First Home Downpayment Assistance. The application cycle will open via ZoomGrants on Nov 3 and close on Nov. 24.

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to visit our website for more information, or email cdbg@washingtoncountyor.gov. 

In our past three newsletters, we introduced you to our wonderful staff. Today, we're excited to shine a light on our Community Development - Policy Advisory Board

The Community Development - Policy Advisory Board (CD-PAB) oversees the Office’s implementation of federal funds and recommends approval of funding awards, planning documents and policies to the Washington County Board of Commissioners. The PAB is comprised of primary and alternate members from each jurisdiction in Washington County that opts to participate. Members are appointed by the governing bodies of their jurisdiction.

• Banks, Stephanie Jones, City Councilor
• Beaverton, Nadia Hasan, City Councilor
• Cornelius, Eden Lopez, City Councilor
• Forest Grove, Mariana Valenzuela, City Councilor
• Hillsboro, Rob Harris, City Councilor
• King City, Jan Tysoe, City Councilor
• North Plains, Trista Papen, City Councilor
• Sherwood, Kim Young, City Councilor (Chair)
• Tigard, Jeanette Shaw, City Councilor (Vice Chair)
• Tualatin, Bridget Brooks, City Councilor
• Washington County, Kathryn Harrington, Commissioner

In August, the CD-PAB held their annual in person meeting at Family Promise of Tualatin Valley's new Bridge to Home Shelter which received HOME-ARP funding.

Left to Right: Javier Mena, Rob Harris*, Eden Lopez*, Taylor Giles, Stephanie Jones*, Trista Papen*, Jeanette Shaw*, Brian Schimmel, Bridget Brooks*, Kathryn Harrington*

*denotes primary member

Kim Young, Sherwood City Councilor

In the coming years, our work will focus on the goals outlined in the draft 2025–2029 Consolidated Plan:

• Increase housing stability for low-income renter households and special populations.
• Improve public facilities and infrastructure that benefit low- to moderate-income people and neighborhoods.
• Facilitate affordable homeownership and preserve and stabilize existing homes occupied by low- and moderate-income owners.
• Fund supportive services for low- and moderate-income and special needs populations.

As Chair, I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and thoughtful decision-making. Our goal is to ensure that federal resources are invested effectively and responsibly to improve housing stability, strengthen neighborhoods, and enhance the quality of life for all Washington County residents.

Kim Young, City Councilor City of Sherwood, CD-PAB Chair

The Washington County Office of Community Development is the proud recipient of not one, but TWO National Association for County Community and Economic Development (NACCED) Awards of Excellence!

• Innovation Award: For the Just Compassion Safe Parking Program in Tigard. This program provides a unique and dignified alternative for individuals to safely reside in their vehicles while they work with case managers to access employment, permanent housing, and other resources without losing their car.
• Affordable Housing Award: For the Alongside Senior Housing project, which provides 57 affordable homes for low-income seniors. Located close to public transportation, the public library, and senior center, this project supports aging in place and community connection.