Boone County is growing, and with that growth comes the need for diverse and attainable housing options. The Boone Economic Development Corporation (Boone EDC) is taking a proactive approach to researching and evaluating alternative housing solutions that could help bridge the gap in available housing for residents. Recently, Boone EDC partnered with Helix 33, an Indianapolis-based company specializing in innovative housing solutions, to provide an educational opportunity for elected officials and community leaders to explore new possibilities for Boone County.
Collaborating with Community Leaders
Understanding the importance of bringing together influential decision-makers, Boone EDC facilitated an event that included several key stakeholders. Among those in attendance were:
- Rick Isenhower – Boone EDC Board Member and Senior Commercial & Ag Lender at First Farmers Bank & Trust
- Lisa Galvin – Boone EDC Board Member and Relator
- Corey Kutz – Boone EDC Board Member and Banker
- Mayor Matt Gentry – Mayor of Lebanon
- Jake Merritt – Vice President at Merritt Contracting
- Koren Gray – Community Leader/ Clerk Treasurer in Thorntown
This event was more than just a discussion; it was an opportunity to see firsthand what Helix 33 has to offer in terms of attainable and innovative housing options. The conversation centered around how these solutions could be integrated into Boone County to meet the needs of residents across different income levels. Helix 33 partners with Volumod to custom build modular unit housing inside their warehouse space and has recreated a streamlined approach to transporting the units as a prebuilt unit and assembling onsite, thus saving time and money.
Why Events Like This Matter
Events like this are crucial in ensuring that Boone County leaders remain informed and engaged about potential solutions to challenges facing the community. Housing affordability and availability are top concerns as the county experiences continued economic and population growth. By collaborating with industry experts like Helix 33, local officials and business leaders can make data-driven decisions that align with Boone County’s long-term vision.
Some of the key benefits of this approach include:
- Educating Decision-Makers: Bringing in experts allows elected officials and influential business people to gain a deeper understanding of alternative housing models.
- Proactive Research & Development: Rather than waiting for a crisis, Boone EDC is actively exploring solutions that could be implemented to fill housing gaps.
- Public-Private Collaboration: By engaging both public officials and private sector leaders, Boone EDC is fostering partnerships that drive action.
- Ensuring Quality of Life: Housing is a major factor in a community’s economic stability and overall well-being. The more options available, the better Boone County can serve its residents.
Boone EDC Taking the Lead
Boone EDC continues to prioritize community and economic development by taking a leadership role in finding viable solutions to the county’s housing challenges. The organization is committed to researching, networking, and advocating for housing developments that not only make sense financially but also enhance the quality of life for Boone County residents.
The recent collaboration with Helix 33 is just one of many steps Boone EDC is taking to ensure that Boone County remains an attractive place to live and work. By staying ahead of the curve and engaging with industry leaders, Boone EDC is laying the groundwork for a sustainable, well-planned future.
As the conversation around attainable housing continues, Boone EDC will keep working to identify actionable solutions that will benefit current and future residents alike. This is just the beginning of an important journey toward a more inclusive and diverse housing landscape in Boone County.
Learn more about Helix 33 here.