On Monday, November 9, Coös Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) joined community leaders, housing advocates, businesses, and regional partners at the Mountain View Grand for the Coös Housing Convening. CEDC was proud to serve as one of the presenting partners for this important event, which brought together organizations from across the region to address one of the North Country's most pressing challenges: the need for more housing.
Throughout the day, participants explored housing development success stories, challenges facing rural communities, available resources, and opportunities for collaboration.
CEDC Executive Director Wendy Fahlbeck participated in the afternoon panel, "Adoptable Tools and Solutions," alongside representatives from New Hampshire Housing, North Country Council, Passumpsic Bank, and the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs. The panel focused on practical tools to support housing development in Coös County, including grants, loans, alternative financing, technical assistance, and opportunities for organizations to work together to move projects forward.
CEDC team members Hannah and Matt also participated throughout the day, connecting with regional partners and contributing to discussions about housing needs and opportunities.
Housing plays a critical role in the economic vitality of our communities, affecting everything from workforce recruitment and business growth to the long-term sustainability of the North Country.
The Coös Housing Convening was made possible through the collaboration of Affordable Housing Education and Development (AHEAD), Coös Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), Evernorth, the Neil & Louise Tillotson Fund, the NH Business & Industry Association, the NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs, New Hampshire Housing, North Country Council, and the Northern Forest Center.
CEDC is grateful to our fellow organizers and everyone who participated in the day's conversations. Addressing the North Country's housing challenges will take continued collaboration, and we're proud to be part of that work.