Review of Housing Study Recommendations Crosswalk

This document, the "Boone County Housing Study Recommendation Crosswalk" updated on 12/8/2025, tracks progress on 24 recommendations from an October 2024 housing study. The recommendations are categorized into Development, Preservation, Empowerment, and Sustainability.

Key Updates and Progress:

• Development:
  • Streamlined Review Processes: Boone County is implementing new permitting software (Maintstar Land Management and Permitting system) with an anticipated completion of workflow documentation by 11/25/2025. The City of Columbia is nearing completion of its "Small Lot Integration" project, allowing by-right development on small lots, with regulations expected in January 2026 and City Council approval anticipated in June 2026. The definition of "family" is under review, with a public hearing expected in late February or early March 2026.
  • Housing Trust Fund: The City of Columbia created a housing trust fund in the FY2025 budget and is developing policies for its use and a dedicated revenue source.
  • Inclusionary Zoning & Linkage Fees: Both policies are under consideration, with the City of Columbia noting that coordinated implementation with Boone County would be more effective.
  • Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Boone County has approved planned developments with ADUs and is working on zoning revisions to allow them by-right. The City of Columbia's "Small Lot Integration" project also impacts ADU regulations.
  • Permit Targets: In FY2025, Columbia issued 959 dwelling unit permits, exceeding the target of 527.
  • PRO Housing Grant: This federal funding source was eliminated.
• Preservation:
  • Housing Preservation Inventory: Joint discussions are needed among partners to establish this inventory.
  • Code Enforcement: Both Boone County and the City of Columbia continue their efforts in rental housing standards enforcement.
  • Home Rehab & Energy Efficiency: Columbia has broadened eligible uses for its program to include energy-efficient window replacement.
  • MHDC HeRO Program: Columbia is not eligible to apply; Boone County can apply but cannot fund projects within Columbia city limits.
• Empowerment:
  • Homeowner Education: The City of Columbia requires homeowner education for recipients of its Homebuyer Assistance Program, which was revised to allow up to $20,000 in downpayment assistance.
  • Skilled Labor Training: The City of Columbia allocates $500,000 to vocational training, including $100,000 in program year 2025 for Job Point and Connection to Success.
  • City-Owned Land: HNS staff is identifying city-owned land for affordable infill housing development by CHDOs, with RFPs expected in 2026.
  • Transit System: A comprehensive transit study is nearing completion.
• Sustainability:
  • Energy Efficient Homes: HUD-funded new construction projects in Columbia must meet federal energy standards.
  • Land Bank/Trust: The Columbia Community Land Trust (CCLT) is updating policies, and Columbia has properties for redevelopment via RFPs in 2026.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis for Regulations: The City of Columbia is reviewing proposed codes from the BCCC, with potential adoption no earlier than March 2026. The largest impacts are expected from energy efficiency and electrical provisions.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Columbia partners with various organizations to produce 192 new housing units.