Six strategies for Oregon cities

1000 Friends of Oregon has identified six core strategies to improve housing for all Oregonians.

These align with the housing and community objectives of the many partners we work with: Nonprofit and market-rate housing developers; community-based organizations; advocates for accessible housing; transportation choice advocates; climate groups; advocates for housing for older persons; renter organizations; local, state and regional housing coalitions; and more.

These six strategies can serve as a useful framework for approaching housing policy. Each of these is not a policy in its own right, but rather a strategy umbrella under which many policies might fall.

An accessory dwelling unit along a pastoral alleyway, with trees and a small garden.
Expand home choice

Ensure diverse home choices (types, sizes, and price points) that meet the needs of all Oregon households are allowed by local laws and are buildable in all neighborhoods.

A cluster of tall, horizontally compact homes is under construction
Streamline permitting

Evaluate the permitting review process for new developments and remove barriers, redundancies, and unnecessary delays.

A man in a white hard hat uses a drill on some flooring
Build workforce capacity

Strengthen necessary segments of the homebuilding workforce and ensure these workers can afford to live in your area.

A blue light rail train passing by a cluster of multi-level apartment buildings in an urban setting
Fund housing & infrastructure

Establish innovative ways to fund new homes and infrastructure and/or reduce the cost of building, buying, or renting homes.

Duplex cottage with yellow doors and low, accessible ramps to the front doors (accessible senior housing in Talent, OR)
Secure stability & access

Establish policies to maintain existing affordable housing, prevent displacement, and improve accessibility.

Courtyard of an apartment complex, with small green trees in the center. The building has a natural wood look.
Align financial incentives with housing needs

Identify and amend financial and practical incentives to ensure they work towards community housing goals.