Opponents May Stop Fee Raise That Would Pay For Affordable Housing

Political opposition may stand in the way of Oregon's plans to raise money for affordable housing by increasing the fees paid when filing real estate documents by more than 100%.

1 minute read

May 11, 2007, 7:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg


"Oregon politicians are split over a proposed $15 rise in the $11 base charge Oregonians pay when they file a real estate document at their county courthouse, which is money that housing advocates have categorized as a fee, but Republicans say is a tax increase in disguise."

"Housing advocates say they're still hopeful that the funding mechanism will pass, particularly since the cost of housing is a problem in just about every corner of the state. A recent survey by the Oregon Progress Board found that 82 percent of low-income renters are spending more than the recommended 30 percent of their income on housing; the same is true for nearly half of all low-income homeowners in Oregon."

Many lawmakers have said they would prefer using an incentive program to encourage developers to build affordable housing.

Wednesday, May 9, 2007 in The Register-Guard

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