The recent topic of housing has grown into a concern for several organizations and governmental entities in Greene County.

Jefferson Mayor Craig Berry says housing is going to be a continuing problem, especially in the City.

“We do need to do something about the housing.  We don’t have much right at the moment, it’s basically full.  But we need to make sure that there is that need and people are dying to get to Jefferson.  And I think it’s important issue that’s going to be coming forward in the next year.”

Berry points out that the City took advantage of federal funds through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program to tear down blighted houses, but no new houses have been built.  Another project that’s also put on hold is a 44-unit townhome and condominium complex by the water tower.  However, Berry believes that the project would cost taxpayers too much money, which he thinks the taxpayers shouldn’t be paying part of their property taxes for something being built in town.  Berry says the City doesn’t want to be in the market to own housing or rental properties.

The City Council is currently conducting a city-wide housing study to determine where housing needs are at.