Heather Grenier
As new policies are developed that will directly shape housing affordability now and in the future, we hope community leaders can prioritize the strategies that will have the greatest impact. At HRDC, we believe that protecting, preserving, and producing affordable housing for those who live and work in our community is not only the right approach but also the most cost-effective way to secure long-term affordability. By safeguarding existing housing and creating new opportunities, we can build a stronger foundation for the future.
One of the clearest examples of this strategy in action is our recent work at the Colorado Apartments in Belgrade. These eight one-bedroom units have been a vital resource for elderly and disabled residents since they were built in 1975. This summer, we completed an extensive renovation of these apartments, ensuring they are modern, comfortable, and fully ADA accessible. By investing in these existing homes, we have preserved affordable housing for current residents and ensured dignity, stability, and quality of life for our neighbors in the years to come.
In addition to our preservation efforts, we are also focused on protecting existing affordable housing at risk of disappearing. Earlier this year, we purchased the Belgrade Trailer Court to prevent the displacement of residents who rely on this critical low-cost housing. This purchase required us to take on mortgage debt, but the cost of protecting these homes is far less than losing them altogether. We’re ensuring that this land remains affordable for trailer park owners and renters.
While a good portion of our housing work focuses on preservation and protection, we are actively producing new community housing that is affordable for those who live and work here. Last month, we partnered with a local property owner to list a condo at $255,000—about 30% below market rate. This opportunity opened the door to homeownership for a family that might otherwise be priced out of Bozeman’s challenging housing market. And because this property is part of our Community Land Trust, it will remain affordable for future buyers as well, thanks to a deed restriction that limits resale prices. This is how we create lasting affordability in a region where housing costs continue to rise.
Another important tool we’re leveraging to produce more community housing is Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). In Park County, we’re hosting a series of workshops to encourage homeowners in Livingston and Gardiner to consider building ADUs. These smaller, flexible housing options can add much-needed rental units to our community while helping property owners generate additional income. By providing guidance on financing, design, permitting, and more, we’re helping to unlock the potential of ADUs as a solution to our housing shortage.
Each of these efforts—whether preserving, protecting, or producing housing—is part of a larger strategy to address the housing crisis in our community. We know that building new homes is essential, but we must also recognize the value of preserving and protecting the affordable housing that already exists. This approach not only saves money in the long run but also keeps people in their homes and maintains the stability of our neighborhoods.
As we continue to navigate the complex housing challenges in our region, I am proud of our team’s work. Together with our community partners, we are making a real difference in the lives of our neighbors. While there is still much work to be done, I am confident that by focusing on housing preservation, protection, and production, we can create a future where everyone can access safe, stable housing that they can comfortably afford.
