Hello John, On May 14, our local and state leaders will be sharing their vision for a stable, affordable, and equitable Bay Area future and news about the exciting new affordable housing regional coordination and entity that can bring that vision to light! Join the virtual conversation to learn about the opportunities and what to expect ahead. The Bay Area Housing Finance Authority (BAHFA) was created in 2019 by AB 1487 (Chiu) to provide the 9-county Bay Area with the robust regional housing infrastructure and capacity needed to advance the “3 P’s” of production, protection, and preservation. Through its shared governance model, BAHFA equips the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) with the tools and resources needed to address the region’s housing and displacement crises beyond what the Bay Area otherwise be able to do. Now, more than ever, it is critical to activate BAHFA to be able to provide regional coordination, technical assistance, and funding for affordable housing -- both to meet the existing housing need and address our region’s public health and economic recovery. Join our esteemed panelists during Affordable Housing Month for a webinar to learn about the opportunities BAHFA presents to address the region’s housing crisis through its existing capacity and with potential state, federal, corporate, and philanthropic resources and support. On Thursday, May 14 (10am - 11am), the virtual panel will be opened and moderated by MTC Commissioner and Mayor of Oakland Libby Schaaf. As the author of AB 1487, Assemblymember David Chiu will share state opportunities for BAHFA and the importance of regional housing infrastructure. From the Ford Foundation, María Torres Springer will share insights from her experience as the chair of the New York City Housing Development Corporation and as commissioner of the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development as well as discuss the role of philanthropy in supporting an effective housing ecosystem. Also, hear from Bay Area agency staff how BAHFA can advance 3 P’s efforts locally. | |