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2020 Virtual Montana Housing Partnership Conference

The conference took place on June 16, 2020, being held virtually instead of in-person due to COVID-19. The day featured four sessions covering various housing-related topics concerning Montana. Below you will find information for each session including the recording, slides, and shared resources.

SESSION 1:

Federal and State Responses: Changes Since COVID-19, Impacts on Housing

We heard from state and federal agencies and regulators as to the status of the housing sector and programs. The impacts of COVID-19 are being felt in how programs are being implemented, where resources are being directed, and what policies are being shaped. In this rapidly changing current environment this is a chance for us all to stay up to speed on new challenges and opportunities.

Moderator: Julie Flynn,  

Presenters: Cheryl Cohen, Libby Starling

SESSION 2:

Housing and Healthcare: Updates on Collaborative Efforts Around the State

Presenters talked about the work underway between the Department of Public Health & Human Services, Department of Commerce and the Montana Healthcare Foundation to enhance alignment of healthcare and housing, and further support Montanans to live in the community of their choice with the supportive services they need to thrive. The session included an update on the state’s work under the Medicaid Innovation Accelerator Program, and solicit feedback from attendees on what housing-related activities would be critical for the state to pursue in the future for potential Medicaid reimbursement. The University of Montana Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) also provided an overview of the Montana Healthcare Foundation and Montana Housing Coalition Affordable Housing Study. ​

Moderator: Cheryl Cohen

Presenters: Brandon Bridge, Traci Clark, Ted Madden, and Zoe Barnard

SESSION 3:

Housing Development: Current Barriers and Opportunities

Development of homes Montanans can afford continues to be a critical need in our state. This session discussed development challenges from financing, to regulatory hurdles, to Nimbyism, to construction contracting. Panelists provided their perspectives on how COVID-19 is changing the development landscape, took questions from the audience and discussed current topics in the field.

Moderator: Bonnie Craigie

Presenters: Jacob Kuntz, Heather McMilin, Tyson O'Connell, Ellie Ray,

Jennifer Wheeler

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SESSION 4:

Client Services: Supporting Renters and Homeowners in Uncertain Times

COVID-19 has caused significant financial stress on both renters and homeowners. This panel of professionals from across the state shared tools that are helpful during a financial crisis, reviewed the rights of homeowners and renters, discuss what people can do if they have experienced lost income, and consider the impacts COVID-19 has had on Montana Reservations.

Moderator: Hanna Tester

Presenters: Amy Hall, Chuck Munson, Tonya Plummer, Katie Sadowski

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