The document discusses sustainable communities and how planning for housing and transportation are connected. It provides examples of developments in Idaho, like Meadow Ranch, that are incorporating sustainable building practices to increase efficiency and quality of living. Communities are also planning housing and transportation together by creating mixed-use neighborhoods to reduce driving. The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho develops regional transportation plans that consider interrelated uses like housing to create more sustainable communities.

1. November 2010
Homes Become
Sustainable Through
Building Practices
Better Living
Taking a Closer Look at
Environments
Inside and Out ..............3 Sustainable Communities
Defining sustainable communities is to make sure we grow in a way to protect
difficult because there are many ways to these things. According to Bruce Chatteron,
Housing and characterize the term depending on who planning and development services
Transportation: you ask and where they live. In essence director for the city of Boise, people are
Making a Connection sustainable communities provide a place starting to understand that there are
is Key to Planning ........4 where people want to live and work, and practical reasons for building sustainable
communities that meet the diverse needs communities, which go beyond the so-
of its residents not only today, but for the called green movement.
future. There are several emerging topics of
Planning for Growth interest that are spurring collaboration and
“Really, the underlying idea is it
Harmoniously helping to shape future plans of building
A Holistic Approach to more sustainable communities across Idaho. gives us a chance to build and
Community Planning ....6 The idea of sustainable communities was live in high-quality communities
derived from other principles such as smart that will last over time.”
growth and green building, which have
— Bruce Chatterton, planning and
Housing Developments been around for some time. Rachel Winer,
development services director, city of Boise
Statewide ............................ 7 the executive director for Idaho Smart
Growth, said “Smart growth principles such
Programs and Services Updates... 8 as mixed land uses, providing a variety of The economic recession has brought the
transportation choices, and creating a range importance of planning methods and
Achieving a Lifelong Dream....... 9
of housing opportunities and choices, are the evaluation of a communities’ lasting
Community Involvement.. ....... 10 all tools to get to sustainable communities.” vitality to the forefront. Communities
She said Idaho is defined by place, so are addressing items such as housing,
Calendar of Events.................11 transportation, environmental impact,
whether it’s the ranches, farms, mountains,
or other aspects defining Idaho, we need …continued on page 2
Market Trends: Sustainable
Communities; What Does it Mean?
It seems that no matter who you talk to, the term sustainable communities means
something different. While one person may focus more on the environmental impact,
either from a green building or conservation perspective, others may focus more on
housing, transportation, economic development, or even yet another aspect of
sustainable communities.
To better understand the topic of sustainable communities and illustrate the wide
range of thoughts on the subject, we asked industry professionals statewide to share
their perspective of “What ‘sustainable communities’ means to them.”
“To me it means partnership. We should all consider things we are involved with in our
community from a partnership perspective rather than just an individual perspective.”
– Leland Jensen, President, Eastern Idaho Homebuilders Association, Idaho Falls …continued on page 5
Idaho Housing and Finance Association is expanding housing and funding opportunities statewide. www.ihfa.org

2. Focus: Sustainable Communities
Taking a Closer Look at Sustainable Communities
…continued from cover
and economic development in an “Having these agencies from different evaluating what the transportation
interconnected manner to help produce cultures coming together in an needs actually are. They are doing this
more sustainable communities by integrated way to create joint programs by reaching out to organizations for the
developing jobs and services that are is unprecedented, so the outcome of elderly, schools, and housing authorities
reasonably close to homes. According the partnership is yet to be seen,” said to understand what the transportation
to Lee Jones, regional public affairs Chatteron. Jones explained that in the and scheduling needs are.
officer for U.S. Department of Housing past affordable housing was built by
Other parts of the state are showing
and Urban Development (HUD), this developing wherever land or roadways
signs of planning in an interconnected
creates more affordable transportation were available, and the impact on
manner as well. Driggs and Victor
options, and saves people time and the economy or environment wasn’t
in Teton County experienced the
money. This is good for the economy necessarily considered. This method
highest per capita growth for the
and the environment and decreases our unintentionally built homes in one part
Greater Yellowstone region just a few
ecological footprint. of town while the places people worked,
years ago, but took a step back and
reevaluated their planning methods
when the economy slowed and projects
ECONOMIC
“It is good to see the stalled. They are now working more
HOUSING closely together. “Both cities working
DEVELOPMENT
interconnectivity of together to plan in concert for growth
SUSTAINABLE
planning on the helps make sure the choices they
make today don’t limit the choices for
COMMUNITIES local level.” future generations,” said Jan Brown,
the executive director of Yellowstone
— Jim Deffenbaugh,
TRANSPORTATION Business Partnership (YBP). YBP, a
ENVIRONMENTAL executive director,
IMPACT nonprofit organization, has been
Panhandle Area Council
working towards more sustainable
communities in the Greater Yellowstone
area since 2001. YPB led a team to
The Obama administration introduced an shopped, attended school, and other
Interagency Partnership for Sustainable things were spread all throughout create the first regional rating system
Communities asking the Department other parts of town, so sometimes affiliated with the LEED Green Building
of Transportation (DOT), HUD, and the everything they needed to do could Rating System, which makes economic
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) be twenty minutes or more away and environmental sense for the
to work together in an “all-hands-on- from home. According to Jones the Yellowstone-Teton region. According
deck” approach in planning for growth. Partnership is trying to offset this by to Brown, Pocatello was the first
“The purpose of these agencies working encouraging neighboring communities city registered as a pilot sponsor to
together and considering items in an to work together on future planning. demonstrate how each prerequisite and
interconnected manner is to take away The grant programs stemming from the credit can be practically achieved on the
some of the limitations that are created Partnership are producing collaboration ground. Brown anticipates that once the
by considering items individually, and by requiring participation from a system is vetted across a wider audience
broaden the possibilities of outcomes consortium of local governments to and proved in concept with developers
for communities,” said Scott Frey, ensure a variety of opinions are obtained. and local governments; they will be able
transportation planner for the DOT’s “This allows them to begin to reach some to procure more federal funds towards
Idaho Division of the Federal Highway consensus on where and how they want their sustainability efforts.
Administration. According to Jones, the to grow,” said Jones. Fostering the idea of collaboration and
effort is shaping federal policies and
“It is good to see the interconnectivity planning for growth by considering
provides federal support to encourage
of planning on the local level,” said housing, transportation, environmental
building and planning that produces
sustainable communities. While the Jim Deffenbaugh, the executive director impact, and economic development in
Partnership is in its infancy, these for the Panhandle Area Council, one an interconnected manner could build
agencies have launched several grant of Idaho’s six Economic Development stronger, more sustainable communities
programs for millions of dollars that are District organizations. According to for Idaho. This issue of Cornerstones
designed to support their efforts. “We are Deffenbaugh, public transportation looks more closely at how housing and
laying out the blueprints, but the people is just one of the areas beginning to transportation are connected, and how
in the communities, on the ground, are plan on a sustainable level in northern incorporating green building methods
the ones that know what is needed to Idaho. Rather than local transportation not only impacts our environment,
make it work and will help define the providers making plans based on what but produces homes with more lasting,
outcome,” said Jones. they want, the providers are better sustainable values. n
2 November

3. Homes Become Sustainable Through
Building Practices
The concept of sustainable building incorporates a variety of because they were near existing development and community
factors, but ultimately sustainable buildings provide better resources. High-efficiency water conserving plumbing fixtures,
quality living environments inside and out, last longer because an ENERGY STAR advance light package, and ENERGY STAR
they are more durable and adaptable, and cost less to maintain appliances are just a few of the items that help keep tenant’s
because they are more efficient. The methods used to build energy costs low. And low energy costs are just one benefit. “The
sustainable homes increase the longevity of the properties and durability of the development is increased because of the high-
lead to better quality of life for residents. Both single-family quality materials,” said Claire Casazza, director of development
homes and multifamily developments can benefit from this for Thomas Development. The company uses environmentally
practice, and builders in Idaho are incorporating these building preferred products in the construction of the developments,
concepts to the advantage of Idaho citizens. which means products must be produced within 500 miles of the
Meadow Ranch development in Coeur d’Alene,
a 55 and older active adult community,
provides quality single-family and town
homes close to necessary amenities. These
homes were built from the ground up with
sustainability in mind. All the framing for
the homes is done off-site in a factory so
lumber isn’t sitting outside in inclement
weather. This process also allows the homes
to be built much more quickly so they
have less exposure to the elements. While
the home floorplans vary, each of these
homes incorporates features that help the
environment and ensure the home will stand
the test of time. Low-flow toilets; drought
tolerant irrigation systems; and energy-
efficient windows, doors, and light fixtures
are just a few of the items that ensure the
homes are as efficient as possible. In addition,
residents benefit from lower utility costs.
The benefits of efficiency aren’t seen only in the final product,
but quality of life is also a factor for people purchasing these
homes, said Dennis Cunningham, president of Active West
Developers & Builders, the developer of Meadow Ranch.
The development is located near a grocery store and medical
facilities, and is just a quarter mile from North Idaho Centennial
Trail, a multi-use recreational trail system. Benefits beyond the
proximity to local services are what one resident is lauding about
his home. “I had a gentleman who told me his eyes didn’t water
as much and that he breathed better after being in his home for
just two weeks,” Cunningham said. The resident attributes that
change to the quality building materials, such as no VOC paints
and carpet padding and adhesives with low formaldehyde. Above: Homes in Meadow Ranch development
Residents in two new multifamily developments in Eastern Idaho Below: A resident’s kitchen in the Meadow Ranch development
are also benefiting from sustainable design and construction
processes. Rosslare Senior Apartments in Idaho Falls and site, reducing the pollution that occurs during the transportation
Cardona Senior Apartments in Chubbuck both recently received process. Thomas Development incorporates green building into
Platinum Certification through the USGBC LEED for Homes all its affordable housing projects, a decision made in 2006.
program, the first two multifamily developments to achieve “LEED has become the construction and quality benchmark for
this in Idaho. Thomas Development Co., the developer of Thomas Development projects,” Casazza said. “It felt like it was
these projects, included several elements to make these projects the right direction to go in reducing our footprint and cutting
sustainable. Like Meadow Ranch, site locations were selected down waste.” …continued on page 5
Cornerstones 3

4. Focus: Sustainable Communities
Housing and Transportation:
Making a Connection is Key to Planning
You may choose to live in an urban area because use neighborhoods that combine residential and commercial
you enjoy the diversity and convenience associated uses including businesses, shopping, parks and activity centers,
with the city and you enjoy the ease of low-cost, schools, and medical centers. The goal is for people to drive less,
effective transportation. You may choose to live and walk and bike more. “This benefits everyone,” she said.
in a more rural location because you enjoy the “Less driving saves fuel, saves the environment, and creates
peace and privacy of being outside the city and sustainable lifestyles and living patterns. If we can change
you feel the lifestyle outweighs the additional people’s behavior, then we can change circumstances; what will
transportation expense. Whatever your location change behavior is options.”
preference, transportation is a part of the home buying decision- The Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho
making process. Generally, housing prices tend to be lower the (COMPASS), an association of local governments working
further you get from the city, core areas, and job centers. Also, together to plan for the future of the region, develops a regional
living outside the city causes a person to drive further to get to long-range transportation plan, Communities in Motion, for Ada
work and that person spends more on transportation. Increased and Canyon Counties. An update to the plan was just completed,
transportation costs offset the lower home prices. Several local and work will soon begin on the next update. While the focus
groups are partnering to take a closer look at the link between of the plan is transportation, interrelated uses are taken into
housing and transportation. consideration to make the plan as robust as possible. To this end,
Increasing fuel costs have made neighborhoods close to COMPASS is working to expand and strengthen its partnerships
employment centers, shopping, and other amenities more with a number of local and regional organizations. Some of
these, such as the Departments of Environmental Quality, Health
desirable as people strive to reduce driving distances and
and Welfare, Valley Regional Transit, and city and highway
expenses. The 30th Street area in Boise is one neighborhood
districts, and county governments are members of COMPASS;
being planned with that in mind. The city of Boise has developed
others, such as Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA),
a 30th Street Area Master Plan in cooperation with the Ada
Sustainable Community Connections of Idaho, Boise City/Ada
County Highway District (ACHD), neighborhood members, and
County Housing Association, and Idaho Power represent
other stakeholders. The development area is expected to include
new relationships.
new mixed-use activity centers, new housing, employment, and
shopping opportunities. Kathleen Lacy, project coordinator for Currently, there are many different plans developed for the
the city of Boise on the project said this type of development area: transportation, housing, economic development, and
is definitely a trend for the future of Boise. Lacey said the city’s more. Amy Luft, communication coordinator for COMPASS
new Comprehensive Plan sets a 20 to 25 year vision for policies, said the Communities in Motion transportation plan will pull
goals, and objectives for development. The plan includes mixed- together all the interrelated elements so that they will function
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Created by the Comprehensive Planning Division
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4 November
Boise Planning and Development Services Department
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Downtown

5. Market Trends
…continued from cover
“To me it is important to realize that there can’t be
one model, or a national model, of what sustainable
as one cohesive system. That is, transportation will be planned communities means because it will be different in every
in light of needs relating to housing, economic development, region. It is an issue communities need to deal with
local food systems, etc., and vice versa. As an example, the plan locally, based on the resources available to them.”
will address the issue of low- and moderate-income housing, – Pat Barclay, Executive Director, Idaho Council on
its relationship to job centers, and the need for an adequate Industry and the Environment, Boise
transportation system to get those individuals to and from work. “A sustainable community is a community practicing
Luft said, “To truly be sustainable, all long-range planning needs sustainable living and development. This is a
to be conducted in light of other issues. For example, we want community that is reproducing its population and using
to make sure plans for increased transit coincide with plans for resources in a way that meets the community’s current
affordable housing. The goal for the partnerships is to ensure needs while preserving the environment so that these
that all planning is happening with an awareness of what others needs can continue to be met in the future.”
are doing and what their needs are.” – Joe Herring, President, Region IV Development
A similar group of partners is also working together to prepare Association, Twin Falls
State Street/State Highway 44 from the capitol to Middleton to “The concept of sustainable communities provides for
function as a multi-modal corridor, supporting several modes consistent continuity and growth in a community.
of transportation such as cars, buses, walking, and biking If developed correctly sustainable communities provide
with equitable, affordable housing options and accessible for consistency in every economic environment.”
employment. The group will be exploring funding options, – Darsi Johnson, Acting Chair, Pocatello Development
including possible grants such as the Community Challenge Authority Commission, Pocatello
Grant offered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban “It’s about municipalities planning together to determine
Development (HUD), to help with funding for the project. growth by cities and regions. If we look at land use
Matt Stoll, executive director of COMPASS said, “In order for planning, economic development, and housing as a subset
our region to be sustainable into the future, the many types of of land use planning all together, from a government and
long-range plans developed for the area need to complement business aspect, we’ll overcome barriers we have today and
each other and be designed to work together. My hope is create a solid infrastructure for future growth.”
that the relationships we are cultivating will lead to more – Karl Dye, Executive Director, Bonner County
coordinated planning.” Economic Development Corporation, Sandpoint n
Even though these newly coordinated planning efforts are
just beginning, important partnerships are being formed
and steps are being taken to address the critical housing and
transportation needs of sustainability in Idaho communities. n
Building Practices
…continued from page 3
Attention to the reduction of waste and importance
of recycling began long before residents moved in.
During the construction process, the team worked to
reduce waste and reuse and recycle materials whenever
possible. At Cardona, 99.5% of construction waste
was diverted from landfills. Only one small truckload
of non-recyclable products was taken to the landfill.
Waste also was reduced through the implementation
of panelized construction, where pre-engineered
wall sections are produced in factory-controlled
conditions and then shipped to the construction site.
Building materials that contributed to healthier indoor
environments were used whenever possible on
the projects.
Processes like those practiced in the design and
PROJECT AREA
construction of these homes and apartments help
to ensure that residents will have efficient and long-
lasting places to live, creating sustainability for future
residents. “Hopefully in years to come our sustainable
The corridor highlighted above is the focus of the decisions will repay themselves many times over
Community Planning Association of Southwest when water rates increase and electrical rates rise,”
Idaho’s (COMPASS) efforts to create a cohesive Cunningham said. n
plan for sustainable communities.
Cornerstones 5

6. Focus: Industry Innovators
Planning for Growth Harmoniously
When we think of fast paced growth in Idaho, She said the Teton Valley presented some challenges in designing
Teton Valley may not be the first thing that comes sustainable developments due to old ordinances and restrictions
to mind, but it has been one of the fastest growing such as parking requirements, street widths, and population
areas in Idaho. According to the U.S. Census Bureau; density restrictions. Jennifer and her team have worked with
from 2000 to 2009 the population of Teton County officials in the cities of Driggs and Victor as well as Teton County
increased over 55%. Located on the west slope of the to change some of the restrictions to accommodate the innovative
Teton Mountain Range and bordered on three sides by designs and needs of sustainable, conservative developments.
mountains; the valley’s natural resources and quality of life are the
things driving growth in the area. These are also the very things Engineers at Harmony Design & Engineering strive to integrate
that made Jennifer Zung fall in love with the area while visiting the projects they work on with the surrounding landscape, taking
friends in 2003. The small town and friendliness of its people, the a holistic approach. The team completed the site plan for the
mountains, the public lands and recreational opportunities, and 105-acre Redtail residential neighborhood two miles east of Driggs.
the fresh air all enticed her into moving to Idaho. But it was the Through the use of conservation principals they helped preserve
growth, and its impact to the environment, that spurred Jennifer wetlands, vegetation, wildlife habitat, and floodplain areas.
into starting Harmony Design & Engineering in Driggs. The development consists of 25 residential home sites and 27
estate cabins; all the cabins are Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
“The motivation ... was to create an for Homes certified.
engineering firm that specialized in Harmony Design & Engineering is also the land
planner, civil engineer, and LEED consultant for
building things that work with our
100 North Eco Park, a 67-acre light industrial
environment, in harmony, and thus and residential project incorporating green
building, smart growth, and traditional
help us to grow in a sustainable way.” neighborhood design. Zung describes traditional
— Jennifer Zung, Principal of neighborhood design as ‘how neighborhoods
Harmony Design & Engineering were laid out before we were so auto dependent’;
this traditional design includes narrower streets,
walking access, and live/work buildings that have
Jennifer said she loves to design and create things and majored businesses on the ground floor and residences above. 100 North
Redtail photos courtesy of Harmony Design & Engineering; portrait by Gabe Rogel.
in civil engineering because she wanted to eventually become an Eco-Park was a LEED for Neighborhood Development pilot project.
architect. “I later discovered that I really liked civil engineering and
water resources in particular,” she said. “I was attracted to water Other projects Zung is proud to be a part of include Trail
resource issues because of how important water is to life; to our Creek Crossing, a six-acre, mixed-use development with
lives and to the life of our planet.” Jennifer has a M.S. in Hydrologic traditional neighborhood design, walking access to businesses
Science and Engineering and a B.S. in Civil Engineering. She is a in the development and downtown Victor, and alternative
registered Professional Engineer in Colorado, Wyoming, and Idaho. transportation. She is also very excited about the Red Barn
She has provided civil engineering services for commercial and project; an 80-acre residential development in Driggs focused on
residential developments in Northern Colorado, Wyoming, and environmental sustainability, social responsibility, diversity, safety,
Idaho; and directed sanitation and water supply projects in the and the creation of a healthy and friendly neighborhood. Red
Philippines as a U.S. Peace Corp volunteer. With over 16 years in Barn includes a five-acre community park that provides public
the civil engineering and water resources field she started Harmony access to the scenic Teton Creek as well as storm water retention
Design & Engineering in 2005 and received the Idaho Business and floodplain protection.
Woman of the year award in 2008.
Zung is a LEED Accredited Professional, sits on the board of
Central to Harmony Design & Engineering’s core mission is directors for the Smart Growth Coalition of Fremont County, the
to provide professional engineering and planning services board of directors for Teton Valley Community Recycling, and is a
that respect and protect our natural world; focusing on low- member of the Driggs Design Review Advisory Committee. With
impact, environmentally sensitive solutions to help build better her vast experience, she often presents at planning meetings and
communities. Jennifer’s partner and spouse, Randy Blough, seminars. Zung said, “The motivation behind starting Harmony
spearheads the planning piece. Jennifer said, “This fits well into Design & Engineering was to create an engineering firm that
our mission since all pieces of sustainability (social, environmental, specialized in building things that work with our environment,
and economic) tie into how our communities are developed.” in harmony, and thus help us to grow in a sustainable way.” n
6 November

7. IHFA News: New Developments
Housing Developments Statewide
Idaho Housing and Finance Association adjacent to the development is also Hemmert, CEO of SEICAA. “If it wasn’t
(IHFA) has administered funding for providing much-needed housing; and for the HOME dollars that go into the
a community center at the development construction process, we wouldn’t be able
the creation of more affordable housing will provide a gathering place for tenants to offer this program.” SEICAA has plans
throughout the state. Low-Income and will allow area organizations to to begin construction on five more homes
provide outreach services. within the next six months.
Housing Tax Credits provide a dollar-
Eastern Idaho Community Action Borrowers must be first-time homebuyers
for-dollar federal tax liability reduction Partnership (EICAP), USDA Rural and take a homebuyer education
to the development’s equity investors, Development, and IHFA worked together class to qualify. SEICAA also requires
to assure the need for affordable housing its homebuyers to complete income
and the HOME program is another management and foreclosure prevention
was met in this rural community. “We
source of funding for housing for appreciate the way IHFA and USDA classes, and put at least 50 hours per
lower-income residents. Here’s a look have worked with us to get this complex person of sweat equity into their home
completed,” said Russ Spain, executive by helping with things such as clean-up,
at some of the developments currently director of EICAP. painting, or other construction processes.
under construction throughout Idaho.
Kathy Reed House, Coeur d’Alene
Construction is underway at the Kathy
Reed house in Coeur d’Alene. This 37-
unit development will provide housing
for elderly residents who make less than
50% of area median income (AMI), and
will help to fill a need in the area. “The
community has been very accepting and
is excited about it,” said Jeff Conroy,
executive director of St. Vincent de Paul,
the sponsor of the project. Completion is
anticipated in spring 2011.
The project is funded by $1.4 million Home completed by PNHS.
from IHFA HOME funds and $3.4 million
from HUD. Goodale & Barbieri Co. is the Infill Projects, Pocatello
development consultant. In the past two years, two Southeastern
Idaho Community Housing Development
Organizations (CHDOs) have built and A homeowner and her family enjoy their new home built
by SEICAA.
sold more than 20 units of single-family
housing throughout the area to qualified
Pocatello Neighborhood Housing
homebuyers with the help of funding
Services (PNHS) has been adding
from the federal HOME program, which
approximately seven homes per year to
is administered by IHFA. Borrowers who
the community for the past 15 years.
qualify for these homes must obtain a
For the last two years HOME has helped
mortgage in the amount for which they
fund this construction. “When there’s a
qualify; then HOME provides a zero
vacant lot or a dilapidated structure in
percent, due-on-sale loan to fund the cost
a neighborhood, that’s where we build
of the home above the borrower’s loan.
a new house,” said Mark Dahlquist,
The CHDOs apply for HOME funds by executive director of PNHS. “That
Lakeview Family Apartments submitting a project application to build allows us to provide dual benefits—
a minimum of four units. If awarded building affordable housing, but also
Lakeview Family Apartments, Roberts HOME funds, they then find and qualify helping to revitalize Pocatello’s older
Residents began moving in to Lakeview prospective homeowners. To date neighborhoods.” PNHS works to build
Family Apartments, a new 23-unit Southeastern Idaho Community Action homes that will work for their borrowers
complex in Roberts, Idaho in late August. Agency (SEICAA) has completed and long-term and that fit well within the
This development is helping to meet the sold six homes in Pocatello, two each in existing neighborhoods.
need for affordable housing for workers in Soda Springs and Inkom, and one each Borrowers purchasing homes through
the large agricultural industry throughout in Preston and Malad. “Our borrowers these programs must meet specific
the area. An existing eight-unit complex are absolutely thrilled,” said Deb income qualifications n
Cornerstones 7

8. IHFA News: Programs and Services
Programs and Services Updates
Home Partnership Foundation and The Housing Company Idaho Housing and Finance Association Will Hold
Receive Award Recognition Fall Compliance Workshops
Pacific Northwest Regional Council of National Association of Idaho Housing and Finance Association will hold its annual
Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) presented the fall/winter workshop series on Section 8 and Tax Credit/HOME
Home Partnership Foundation and The Housing Company, Compliance at various locations statewide in November and
brought to you by Idaho December. Two tracks will
Housing and Finance be offered this year: one for
Association, with two regional on-site managers and one
awards. The Administration for owners and management
Innovation Award of agents. Discussion items will
Excellence was awarded for include recent HUD updates
the creation of the Home and changes, policies and
Partnership Foundation procedures, common areas
and the Community of noncompliance, solutions
Revitalization award was for correcting errors, and
awarded for the Whitman. much more. Workshops
The award process evaluated will be held in Boise, Idaho
applications from housing Falls, and Coeur d’Alene. To
register visit www.ihfa.org,
authorities and community
click on Housing Compliance
development entities in
in the left navigation, then
Oregon, Washington, Idaho,
Project Based Section 8, then
and Alaska.
Julie Williams, IHFA’s senior vice president, accepts the regional awards from Register for Compliance
We are also pleased to NAHRO on behalf of the Foundation and The Housing Company. Workshops.
announce that IHFA was put
into the running for the National Award of Merit with What is IHFA’s Mission?
NARHO and has received the National NAHRO Agency Award IHFA recently updated its mission statement to reflect the
of Excellence for the creation of the Home Partnership company’s business activities statewide. The mission is:
Foundation and will be recognized for the achievement in Idaho Housing and Finance Association improves lives
November. Only 23 Award of Excellence winners will be and strengthens Idaho communities by expanding
recognized nationwide. housing opportunities, building self sufficiency, and
fostering economic development.
Home Partnership Foundation Receives To learn more about the important programs and services offered
Several New Grants by the Association, please visit www.ihfa.org.
The Home Partnership Foundation has been awarded grants from
the following organizations to help further its important mission IHFA named one of the ‘Best Places to Work’ in Idaho
of helping people build a strong foundation for their lives IHFA was named one of the “Best Places to Work” in Idaho by
through stable, safe, and affordable housing: the Idaho Business Review. The program, now in its third year,
n The Steele-Reese Foundation awarded a $30,000 grant to is co-sponsored by the Idaho
support homelessness prevention for rural Idaho families Business Review, POPULUS, and
statewide. Price Associates. The honored
n AmericanWest Bank awarded a $2,500 contribution to support companies are recognized for
homelessness prevention in north Idaho. These funds are strong workplace environments
being directed by St. Vincent de Paul North Idaho, allowing that demonstrate best practices
them to help more families on the brink of homelessness in employee attraction and
through the H.E.L.P Center in Coeur d’Alene. retention. IHFA ranked seventh
n U.S. Bancorp Foundation awarded a $2,000 grant to support out of 43 companies competing,
self sufficiency and asset building. and excelled in the following
categories: employee engagement,
To learn more about the Foundation or make a donation, please training and development,
visit www.homepartnershipfoundation.org, or call 208-424-7010. and satisfaction with job and
company. Top honors were
determined through employer
reports and comprehensive
employee surveys. n
8 November

9. IHFA News: Personal Story
Achieving a Lifelong Dream Through Hard
Work and a Little Help Along the Way
A Twin Falls woman working to achieve
her dream of becoming a nurse is
determined to show her daughter that
through hard work, goals are achievable.
Michelle, a Family Self-Sufficiency
(FSS) participant in IHFA’s Twin Falls
branch office, has been awarded a
continuing education scholarship of
$1,000 annually for up to four years
from the Pacific Northwest Chapter of
the National Association of Housing and
Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) that
will allow her to continue to work toward
her nursing degree at the College of
Southern Idaho.
In her scholarship application essay,
Michelle described how the words normal,
ordinary, and simple have ceased to be
part of her life. Between attending classes
full-time, studying, her work as a Certified
Nursing Assistant (CNA), and keeping
up with a busy 9-year-old, it’s easy to
see that Michelle’s days are full. “I know
there will be challenges ahead, but I will
get there,” she wrote in her scholarship
application essay. “I will fulfill my dream
of becoming a nurse no matter how big
Michelle and her daughter
the challenges.”
This dream is especially important to her Idaho Housing and Finance Association independence. “When I began the FSS
because she knows what it will mean to her sponsored Michelle’s scholarship program I was in debt with my credit card
family. “My daughter is really proud, and application, and the Home Partnership and bills, but it has helped me budget
is always telling everybody that her mom’s Foundation, brought to you by IHFA, my finances every month and reduce my
going to be a nurse,” Michelle said. contributed an additional $250 toward debt,” Michelle said. She now has money
her education in the first year of the saved for emergencies, and plans to be
scholarship. Eligible participants in low- debt-free by the time she’s done with
“When I began the FSS program income housing programs in NAHRO’s school. As part of FSS, funds from the
I was in debt with my credit Pacific Northwest region, which includes U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, Development are placed in an interest-
card and bills, but it has helped applied for the scholarship. Recipients bearing escrow account, which grows
me budget my finances every of the scholarship must have been out based on the increased earned income
of high school for at least four years, from the participant. Upon completion
month and reduce my debt.” of the program, the participant may
must have a high school diploma or
—Michelle GED, and must be pursuing education at use the escrow account to help pay for
education or homeownership costs.
a university, college, trade, or specialty
Michelle’s caseworker Cindy Garcia is
school. The scholarship winner must be a
Her mother is also happy to see her confident that Michelle’s determination
full-time student and maintain a 2.5 GPA.
daughter pursuing her nursing degree. will help her reach her goal, “She keeps
“My mom has always wanted to go to Michelle joined the FSS program soon after focused on what she wants and even
school, but she never got the chance to,” she began participating in IHFA’s Section 8 when she has a bump in the road she
Michelle said. Despite the challenges she Housing Choice Voucher program in tackles that obstacle,” Garcia said.
faces, she knows all the hard work will 2008. The FSS program is a voluntary Currently 214 people are enrolled in the
be worth it when she achieves her RN program open to voucher recipients that FSS program in IHFA’s branch offices,
degree, and no longer has to live paycheck helps Idaho households learn to take located in Twin Falls, Idaho Falls,
to paycheck. control of their lives and achieve financial Lewiston, and Coeur d’Alene. n
Cornerstones 9

10. IHFA News: Events
Community Involvement Statewide
As part of Idaho Housing and Finance which was held in Idaho for the first Women’s Council of REALTORS®
time in three years. IHFA networked (WCR) Breakfast – Boise
Association’s (IHFA) commitment with over 150 mortgage lenders and
to the community we participate IHFA sponsored the Capital City
housing industry professionals and
chapter of the WCR’s monthly
in numerous events statewide. fostered many partnerships.
breakfast meeting and networked
Whenever possible, IHFA’s staff Ada County Association of REALTORS® with nearly 100 REALTORS® and other
networks with stakeholders interested industry professionals in attendance.
(ACAR) Golf Tournament – Eagle
IHFA’s Homeownership Lending
in expanding housing opportunities, IHFA sponsored this 14th annual Stan
Business Development Officer Cindy
Thomas Memorial ACAR Give-Back Golf
building self sufficiency, and fostering Bengal provided a presentation on
Tournament. Funds raised during the
economic development. We discuss IdaMortgage’s programs and services.
event were used to support Life’s Kitchen.
important programs, including IHFA networked with over 150 area Housing Coordination Roundtables –
REALTORS® and other housing industry
IdaMortgage, housingidaho.com, Statewide
professionals.
housing counseling, Finally Home! ® Five cities served as location sites
for these forums, which are hosted
Homebuyer Education, Section by IHFA, and are open to local
8 Rental Assistance, Multifamily and regional housing stakeholders
Development, Family Self-Sufficiency, and interested parties. Attendees
discussed housing issues relevant to
Economic Development Bonds, and
their community including federal
the Home Partnership Foundation programs, statewide initiatives, funding
with event attendees. Recent IHFA availability, the Home Partnership
Foundation, and legislation affecting
events include:
participating organizations.
Working Women’s Symposium –
Food Drive – Statewide
Pocatello
IHFA’s staff stepped up to support
IHFA participated alongside a variety of
families in need throughout Idaho. In
area businesses during the exposition
total the staff collected the equivalent
held in conjunction with this fifth annual REALTORS® enjoy Stan Thomas Memorial ACAR
of 5,114 pounds of food or just over
event hosted by the Idaho Small Business Give-Back Golf Tournament
59.34 pounds per employee, which was
Development Center. IHFA was able to
network with over 150 attendees from R.A.C.E. for Success Expo – Nampa donated to Foodbanks throughout
the Pocatello area. IHFA participated alongside over 150 area the state.
businesses at this resource and career expo
Idaho Association of REALTORS® South Central Community Action
designed to provide a “one-stop” location
Conference – Boise of information to support individuals
Partnership (SCCAP) – Twin Falls
IHFA participated at this annual event and families in transition. More than 500 IHFA participated with over 60
as a major conference sponsor. IHFA individuals attended. nonprofit and financial organizations
also participated alongside 20 vendors as a vendor at this fourth annual
during the event’s tradeshow providing event. The event was held to provide
networking opportunities with more than information about services available to
200 housing industry professionals. low-income individuals and families
across the Magic Valley. Education
Idaho Association of Counties (IAC) on homeownership and financial
Annual Conference – Boise management with credit and debt
IHFA participated alongside 30 area counseling was the events focus. More
businesses who exhibited at IAC’s three- than 2,000 individuals attended.
day annual conference. During the event,
IHFA networked with over 200 county
Caldwell Chamber of Commerce’s
elected officials. Buckaroo Breakfast – Caldwell
IHFA provided a day sponsorship to
Pacific Northwest Mortgage Lender’s this annual event. IHFA had an exclusive
Conference – Boise information table during the event and
IHFA provided a platinum level Hundreds attended the R.A.C.E. for Success resource and networked with more than 300 area
sponsorship for this annual event, career expo. businesspeople. ...continued on page 11
10 November

11. Community Involvement
...continued from page 10
IdaMortgage REALTOR® Appreciation
Luncheon – Idaho Falls
Top IdaMortgage REALTORS® in the
Idaho Falls area were honored by IHFA
during this event held biennially. Homebuyer Education Classes
More than 65 REALTORS® enjoyed
the “STARS” IdaMortgage awards Classes are specifically designed for
luncheon presentation saluting top area first-time homebuyers and are taught
REALTORS®. Top recognition awards throughout the state by regional
were presented to Marcus Hopkins of training partners. Contact the location
WinStar Realty who received the gold nearest you for class schedules or
award, Julie Winn of Century 21 High Top recognition award winners at IdaMortgage REALTOR®
Appreciation Luncheon, Idaho Falls. From left to right
go to www.ihfa.org and follow the
Desert who received the silver award, homebuyer education links.
Susan Semba IHFA’s homeownership lending director,
and Launie Shelman of WinStar Realty Marcus Hopkins, Launie Shelman, and Julie Winn.
who received the bronze award. n Regional Training Partner Locations:
Look for IHFA in your community at various events as listed below. Benewah, Kootenai, and Shoshone Counties:
Coeur d’Alene Association of REALTORS ®,
208-667-0664
Bonner and Boundary Counties: Bonner
Calendar of Events
Community Housing Agency; registration is
handled by the Selkirk Association of REALTORS ®
at 208-265-2227.
Boise/Meridian/Nampa/McCall: Neighborhood
Housing Services, Inc., 208-343-4065, or visit
www.nhsid.org/services/homebuyer.html
November December Caldwell: Caldwell Board of REALTORS ®,
10/31-2 National Association of Housing and 11/30-4 National League of Cities 2010 Congress of 208-459-3301
Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) 2010 Cities and Exposition, Denver, CO,
National Conference, Reno, NV,
Idaho Falls: Greater Idaho Falls Association
202-626-3000
877-866-8476 of REALTORS ®, 208-523-1477 (English and
1 Section 8 Compliance Workshop, Boise,
1 Tax Credit/HOME Compliance Workshop, 208-331-4733 Spanish classes available)
Coeur d’Alene, 208-331-4733 2 Tax Credit/HOME Compliance Workshop, Lewiston: Community Action Partnership,
2 Section 8 Compliance Workshop, Boise, 208-331-4733 208-746-3351
Coeur d’Alene, 208-331-4733 2 Budget-Based Rent Increase Compliance
3 Budget-Based Rent Increase Compliance Workshop, Boise, 208-331-4733 Pocatello: Pocatello Neighborhood Housing
Workshop, Coeur d’Alene, 208-331-4733 3 Tax Credit/HOME Compliance Workshop, Services, 208-232-9468
3-7 Women’s Council of REALTORS ® National Coeur d’Alene, 208-331-4733 Twin Falls: College of Southern Idaho,
Conference, New Orleans, LA, 800-245-8512 1-3 Housing Assistance Council (HAC) 2010 208-732-6442, or email dgause@csi.edu
5-8 National Association of REALTORS ® (NAR) National Rural Housing Conference,
2010 REALTORS ® Conference and Expo,
(English and Spanish classes available)
Washington, D.C., 202-842-8600
New Orleans, LA, 800-874-6500 15 Idaho Affordable Housing Management Finally Home!® Online: The Finally Home!®
11 Veterans Day, IHFA Offices Closed Association (AHMA) Board Meeting, Boise, Homebuyer Education course is offered online
15 Tax Credit/HOME Compliance Workshop, 208-947-2592 and is available in English and Spanish. Cost is
Idaho Falls, 208-331-4733 24 Christmas Eve, IHFA Offices Closed $50 at www.finallyhomecourse.com.
16 Section 8 Compliance Workshop, Idaho Falls,
208-331-4733 January 2011
17 Budget-Based Rent Increase Compliance 9-14 National Council of State Housing Agencies
Workshop, Idaho Falls, 208-331-4733 (NCSHA) 2011 HFA Institute,
17 Idaho Affordable Housing Management Washington, D.C., 202-624-7710
Association (AHMA) Board Meeting, Boise, 12-15 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
208-947-2592 International Builders’ Show, Orlando, FL,
18 Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC) 800-368-5242
Meeting, Boise, 208-334-3285 20 Idaho Real Estate Commission (IREC) Meeting,
25-26 Thanksgiving, IHFA Offices Closed Boise, 208-334-3285
30 Section 8 Compliance Workshop, Boise, 26 Annual statewide homeless
208-331-4733 Point-in-Time Count
Cornerstones 11
Cornerstones