The Network's Semi-Annual Membership Meeting, attended by over 200 elected officials, members, and supporters of the Housing & Community Development Network of NJ gathered at the Trenton Marriott for the group’s semi-annual meeting.  The Honorable Shaun Donovan, secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), was on hand to deliver the keynote address. Sec. Donovan highlighted the work the Obama Administration is doing to partner with communities and families hurt by the foreclosure crisis and efforts under way to strengthen housing opportunities for all Americans.  U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) also addressed the group, via video message, about the housing issues being discussed in the Congress. 

The secretary's visit comes on the heels of reports that New Jersey's foreclosure rates are on an uptick, contradicting the more optimistic national trend. New Jersey housing advocates have been pushing for state policies that would address the vacant and abandoned foreclosed property problem while revitalizing neighborhoods by transforming these homes into vibrant, affordable ones. Advocates are looking to the Obama Administration's landmark $25 billion foreclosure settlement, as one of several ways to improve New Jersey's economic outlook. New Jersey is set to receive $800 million of the settlement, $75 million of which advocates say is at risk of being taken to fund budget items not relating to foreclosure prevention.

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EVENT MATERIALS:

Program

Event Photos

Keynote Address Text

Plenary Panel Presentation - City of Orange

Plenary Panel Presentation - NJ Transit

Plenary Panel Presentation - Rutgers University

HUD Secretary Donovan Keynote Part 1

HUD Secretary Donovan Keynote Part 2

HUD Secretary Donovan Keynote Part 3

HUD Secretary Donovan Keynote Part 4

HUD Secretary Donovan Q&A Session Part 1

HUD Secretary Donovan Q&A Session Part 2

HUD Secretary Donovan Q&A Session Part 3

CREATIVE STRATEGIES SESSION MATERIALS:

Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program

SHELTERFORCE Presentation

FAQ Community Land Trusts

Key Features of the "Classic" Community Land Trust

Rental to Homeownership Case Study

Federal Definition of Community Land Trusts

Homes that Last