(Columbus) A state representative from Columbus is praising Governor Tony Evers for signing a workforce housing rehabilitation loan program into law. The bill is part of a larger legislative package to provide safer, more affordable housing options across the state.
Will Penterman says Wisconsin is in the midst of a growing workforce housing shortage, noting that since 2012 the state has created 75-percent fewer lots and 55-percent fewer new homes than pre-recession averages.
The Republican lawmaker says the new bill will create low-interest or no-interest loan programs for the rehabilitation of certain residential properties. Covered uses under the legislation include improvements to the home that allow for it to remain in a safe and sanitary condition. Improvements can include structural repairs, the removal of lead paint, replace heating, electrical, or plumbing systems, or repairing or replacing insulation or siding.
Penterman says he is happy the governor found some common ground with the Legislature on an issue as important as this.
