ISSUE 142 | February 2, 2022
The Institute is an economic research and applied research and consulting group that provides customized client solutions and strategies to facilitate decision making and planning that enhances growth, impact, and sustainability for organizations.
From Around the Region and the State
Economic and Policy News
Chambersburg council repeals LGTBQ+ discrimination protections
A short-lived Chambersburg ordinance extended protections for people who are gay, transgender, and genderqueer people in regard to employment, housing, and public accommodations.

The measure covered others as well, such as veterans, who are not named in state anti-discrimination law.

The composition of council changed since the ordinance was passed four months ago, however, and Republicans who voted to repeal cited redundancy because such discrimination falls under purview of the State Human Relations Commission. 

Philadelphia enhances diversity within a holiday tradition 
For the first time in its 14 years, Philadelphia’s holiday market contained dedicated space for Black and brown business owners.

Three converted shipping containers were outfitted by a professional muralist to display their work for free.

City departments sponsored the cost and provided grants to organizations to manage the space and recruit the businesses.

Push for reform is front and center after Philadelphia’s housing fire
Lack of affordable housing is a national challenge fueled by public policy demanding single-family homes and parking.

Safety measures like automatic sprinklers and fire escapes are costly and not typically required by law, forcing individuals with low-incomes to live with greater risk.

Addressing the root cause of housing insecurity is emerging as a priority area, and Build Back Better’s $65 million for public housing improvements could alleviate these challenges. 

From Around the Nation and the Globe
Economic and Policy News
Inclusionary zoning can help with housing despite NIMBYism
red_house_logo.jpg
A 2018 ordinance in Bozeman, Montana required housing developers to produce affordable options for people at certain income levels.

The state’s Governor has signed a new measure into law, however, and it prohibits such regulations.

Bozeman is growing and a 2019 housing study demonstrated demand for even more affordable homes. 

Norfolk incentivizes middle-level housing 
A housing gap exists between single-family homes and large multiplexes.

In response, Norfolk officials approved the Missing Middle Pattern Book that demonstrates how communities can build denser and walkable mid-level housing, and which can also guide infill development as well as redevelopment and new neighborhoods.

The book was developed to address evolving economic and demographic needs (such as an aging population that stands to benefit from accessibility and proximity to amenities).

Trauma-informed housing emerges as health care tool 
landscape_forest_tree.jpg
The concept of home has garnered renewed interest as a result of the pandemic.

Experts who lead homeless shelters and housing agencies recognize how design can affect physical and mental health.

With their guidance, new developments and redesign of existing spaces now include better soundproofing, more lighting, and open spaces to improve health and well-being.

house_magnifying_glass.jpg
Research Spotlight!
From homebuying to aging in place, The Institute's Housing Task Force has studied a variety of living issues within Northeastern Pennsylvania. Follow the link and click the red box labeled 'Housing.' Then scroll down to access more than a decade of important research.
OUR PARTNERS
Research Institutions
PUBLICATION SUPPORT
Relaying Relevant News & Research to Local Stakeholders