PORT ANGELES – The City of Port Angeles was just awarded the prestigious “LIVE UNITED” award for its commitment to safe and affordable housing. The award, presented by the United Way of Clallam County on April 27, highlights the City’s efforts to overcome barriers to housing development and foster more diverse and accessible housing types.
Deputy Mayor Navarra Carr accepted the award, and described the City Council’s work on housing as a team effort, thanking City staff for their hard work, along with nonprofits, government partners, local businesses, and City residents.
The City has developed several innovative policies and programs to promote the development of diverse and accessible housing options, including the:
- First-Ever Comprehensive Building Permit Fee Waiver Program in Washington State, which permanently waives 25 different building permit fees for several categories of housing projects.
- The Permit-Ready Plans Program, which provides free, pre-designed building and engineering plans.
- Multifamily Property Tax Exemptions, which offers owners and developers exemption from property tax for a period of 8, 12, or 20 years.
- New Improvement Community Enhancement (NICE) Grants, which invest in infrastructure projects in areas with high development or redevelopment potential.
- Affordable Housing Sales Tax and Use Grants, designed to assist with affordable housing projects.
To learn more about these programs, visit the City’s newly launched webpage at cityofpa.us/housing.