Boone County News Release

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Residents Invited to Participate in Boone County Housing Study

March 7, 2024 – Boone County, in partnership with the City of Columbia, invites all residents to contribute to the groundbreaking Boone County Housing Study. By participating in a community input meeting, completing a community survey, or both, residents can ensure their unique experiences and insights will be heard. The Housing Study, a part of the Boone County Upward Mobility Action Plan, represents a significant step toward addressing housing challenges and fostering sustainable community development throughout the county. In December 2023, Boone County announced its decision to engage the expertise of Amarach Planning Services, a consultancy focused on urban planning and housing analysis, for the Boone County Housing Study.

Community Input Meetings are an integral part of the Boone County Housing Study, providing an opportunity to gather diverse perspectives and insights vital to shaping the study’s conclusions. The Community Input Meetings will be facilitated by Dr. David Boston, owner of Amarach Planning Services. All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend any of the following meetings:

• Monday, April 8, 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  Columbia Public Library, Friends Room, 100 W. Broadway, Columbia
• Tuesday, April 9, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri, Community Room, 2101 Vandiver Dr., Columbia
• Tuesday, April 9, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri, Community Room, 2101 Vandiver Dr., Columbia
• Wednesday, April 10, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
  Hallsville Community Center, 324 E. Hwy OO, Hallsville
• Thursday, April 11, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
  Ashland Optimist Club Building, 511 Optimist Dr., Ashland

Residents may also participate in the housing study through the Housing Survey for Boone County. This anonymous survey will provide more information about the housing needs, preferences, and challenges in Boone County. To complete the survey, please visit https://forms.gle/txTRqsQyjoNu39iA9 or scan the QR code below.

“The scarcity of affordable housing is a significant problem impacting communities across the state and nation,” said Boone County Presiding Commissioner Kip Kendrick. “The affordable housing study won’t be a fix-all solution, but it will provide us paths toward addressing this issue across the County. The success of the housing study is dependent on community engagement. We encourage everyone to complete the survey and to attend one of the community meetings during the week of April 8.”

Information on the Boone County Upward Mobility Action Plan and updates on the housing study can be found at https://www.showmeboone.com/community-services/upward-mobility.asp.

About Boone County Community Services Department
The mission of Boone County Community Services Department is to support the greatest possible level of independence and self-sufficiency of Boone County residents by promoting their physical, mental, and social well-being to cultivate a safe and healthy community.

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