Dedicated Funding Source searches for a more permanent funding source.  Many communities across the country have established alternative ways to pay for affordable housing to offset the loss of federal funds or reduce impacts on the local property tax base.  Some recommendations discussed at the forum as alternatives were:

Over the years, funding sources for affordable housing at all levels – federal, state and local – have been reduced or faced increased pressure from other competing community priorities.  Charlotte has experienced a $3.2 million reduction in federal funding over the past three years, which could have been used for housing preservation and construction.  Although Charlotte has been successful with three housing bond initiatives since 2002 with approval ratings between 55 - 60 percent of the voters, the level of bond funding in each successive round was reduced.  Having a more permanent funding source would better aid in planning and making investments in housing.