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A Growing Population and Housing Challenges in Woodland Park

Photo by Sarah Mcmahon

Introduction
Woodland Park, also known as the City Above The Clouds, is facing several housing challenges due to its growing Bible college student population, limited workforce housing, and controversies surrounding short-term rentals. To tackle these unique housing market problems, the city of Woodland Park has hired Points Consulting, a firm located in Moscow, Idaho, to perform a housing needs assessment and is actively engaging with residents through community surveys, council meetings, and public hearings.

The Impact of Charis Bible College
The housing challenges in Woodland Park began when Charis Bible College moved to the area in 2014. Led by right-wing pastor Andrew Wommack, the college witnessed a significant increase in the number of students over the past nine years, with more than 800 students currently attending. As a result, there is a pressing need for apartments and shorter lease terms in the area, driving rental rates to an all-time high. The college is taking steps to address this issue by constructing six student housing buildings that will accommodate approximately 240 students. However, many students still require housing.

Affordability Concerns
Woodland Park is experiencing a shortage of affordable housing options. Bernie Vayle, the broker-owner of Coldwell Banker 1st Choice Realty, acknowledges the lack of affordable townhomes and condos in the area. While house sales are still robust, the market is unpredictable, with homes priced between $350,000 and $500,000 showing slower movement compared to those priced over $600,000. The average listing price for homes this year is $628,327, and the average days on the market have increased from 26 days in 2022 to 38 days in 2023.

Challenges in Land Development
Buying land and building homes in Woodland Park is becoming increasingly difficult due to rising land prices in Teller County. Consequently, associated expenses and wait times for completing builds have also increased. Reputable well drillers in the area are currently booked up for at least two years, making it impossible to drill a well in the near future after purchasing land.

The Impact on Workforce Housing
The rising housing costs in Woodland Park have resulted in a labor shortage, which is a significant concern for the city. The inability to afford housing prevents businesses from hiring employees, leading to closures and a negative impact on the local economy. The City Manager, Michael Lawson, emphasizes the importance of workforce housing to ensure residents can engage in daily activities and support local businesses. Entry-level positions are particularly challenging to fill due to the high cost of living in Woodland Park.

Controversies Surrounding Short-Term Rentals
Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb and VRBO accommodations, have become a temporary solution for individuals searching for housing in Woodland Park. However, the presence of these rentals has sparked controversy among residents. While some view them as beneficial for tourism and the local economy, others argue that they negatively affect the community. The competition between residents and investors for available homes has been a significant issue in recent years. To address this concern, the City Council has implemented a moratorium on new short-term rental licenses effective until December of this year.

Research and Strategic Planning
Woodland Park City Council has allocated funds for an economic impact study on the effects of short-term rentals on the housing market. By gathering data from community surveys and conducting correlating research, the city hopes to better understand the housing needs and challenges faced by residents. The information gathered from these assessments will be used to develop a comprehensive housing strategic plan to address the housing conundrum in Woodland Park.

Conclusion
Woodland Park is actively taking steps to tackle its housing challenges by conducting housing needs assessments, engaging with residents, and exploring innovative solutions. The city recognizes the urgent need to address the housing market problems caused by the growing Bible college student population, limited workforce housing, and controversies surrounding short-term rentals. By implementing strategic plans and incorporating the AI legalese decoder, Woodland Park aims to provide affordable housing options, support local businesses, and foster a thriving community for its residents.

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