Community invited to Affordable Housing Matters Town Hall on Dec. 3 at IKEA

Prince William County Supervisors Andrea O. Bailey and Kenny Boddye invite community members to attend their Housing Matters Town Hall on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, at IKEA in Woodbridge.

Registration and information stations open at 6 p.m.; program is 6:30-8: p.m..

During this free event, attendees will learn from economic experts, hear real-life stories from individuals navigating the housing market, and discuss existing and proposed solutions for improving housing accessibility.

Keith Waters, Assistant Director of George Mason University’s Center for Regional Analysis, will set the stage with an overview of the region’s housing market.

Other speakers will include Northern Virginia Housing Alliance Executive Director Jill Norcross and members of the County’s housing and planning offices. Following the presentations, audience members will be invited to ask questions and share ideas.

“When we talk about housing, we are talking about housing for all,” said Bailey.  “I’m enthusiastic to have some of the superlative members of the Prince William County staff to join us in this collaborative effort. When we work together in unity, we can accomplish anything.”

Supervisor Boddye echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the human side of the housing crisis. “When we talk about housing, we are really talking about people—your child’s teacher, your favorite barista, our police and firefighters,” Boddye said.”I’m excited for this collaborative discussion on how together we can make housing more attainable for everyone who contributes to the vibrancy of our community.”

Housing Matters registration is now open. The event will be held in the second-floor dining area; light refreshments will be served courtesy of host sponsor, IKEA. Find more information and sign up for this free community event at occoq.org/housing123, or call 703-792-4645 with questions.