Molly Rawn defeats incumbent Mayor Lioneld Jordan in Fayetteville runoff

Molly Rawn defeats incumbent Mayor Lioneld Jordan in Fayetteville runoff

Molly Rawn has won a closely contested runoff election, defeating incumbent Mayor Lioneld Jordan in Fayetteville on December 3, 2024. With 51.14% of the vote, Rawn’s victory signals a significant change in the city’s leadership. She plans to focus on housing affordability and strengthening partnerships with local organizations. As Rawn prepares to take office in January, the community anticipates her vision for a better Fayetteville.

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AG opinion outlines ways cities can build housing, but officials say money is an obstacle

AG opinion outlines ways cities can build housing, but officials say money is an obstacle

California municipalities are under pressure to increase housing development while adhering to complex regulations. Attorney General Rob Bonta’s new authority, established through Senate Bill 1037, allows his office to impose civil penalties immediately upon housing law violations, reinforcing compliance incentives. This shift aims to expedite affordable housing projects and reduce delays caused by local governments resisting state mandates. Financial constraints, however, continue to challenge cities in effectively addressing the housing crisis despite these legislative changes.

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400 Marking Skyline Report's 20-Year Anniversary, Northwest Arkansas Real Estate Market Booming, Needs More Affordable Options

400 Marking Skyline Report’s 20-Year Anniversary, Northwest Arkansas Real Estate Market Booming, Needs More Affordable Options

The Skyline Report, a crucial resource for stakeholders in Northwest Arkansas’ real estate market, celebrates 20 years of publication. With the region’s population projected to grow to one million by 2050, the latest report underscores the urgent need for more affordable housing options to keep pace with demand. Despite low vacancy rates and strong office and multifamily markets, challenges like labor shortages and rising prices persist, highlighting the importance of regional coordination in addressing these issues. As the report looks ahead to its third decade, it continues to provide invaluable insights for navigating the evolving real estate landscape of Northwest Arkansas.

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Walton Family Foundation connects transportation with housing

Walton Family Foundation connects transportation with housing

The Walton Family Foundation is dedicated to bridging the gap between transportation and housing in Northwest Arkansas, recognizing the crucial link between the two. For many households, housing and transportation are the largest expenses, and as land values increase, the demand for affordable housing further from key destinations rises, leading to higher transportation costs. By collaborating with local agencies, the foundation aims to provide diverse, affordable mobility options to create a more inclusive and vibrant community where all residents can thrive. Their integrated approach considers the entire resident journey, aiming to make life easier by reducing transportation costs through improved housing affordability and enhancing alternative modes of transport.

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Rezoning properties along College Avenue now up to Fayetteville City Council

Rezoning properties along College Avenue now up to Fayetteville City Council

The College Avenue rezoning project, known as the 71B Rezoning Project, is advancing to the Fayetteville City Council for consideration. The goal of the project is to revitalize the central corridor by allowing both housing and commercial uses in the same areas. This initiative is a continuation of the city’s efforts to improve economic viability, address traffic concerns, expand affordable housing, and create a more accessible and attractive community. The proposed Urban Corridor zoning district would facilitate mixed-use developments to bring residential and commercial spaces together in the area.

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Fayetteville planners support rezoning 71B corridor for more housing, different building orientations

Fayetteville planners support rezoning 71B corridor for more housing, different building orientations

Fayetteville planners have backed the rezoning of the 71B corridor, a key step towards revitalizing the area. The new “urban corridor” district will promote mixed-use developments and enhance the economic vitality of the region. With community input and careful planning, the city aims to address housing shortages and improve overall quality of life in Fayetteville. The upcoming decision by the City Council is crucial in implementing the proposed changes and making the 71B corridor a model of sustainable urban development.

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University of Central Arkansas officially announces its largest incoming class

University of Central Arkansas officially announces its largest incoming class

The University of Central Arkansas has announced its largest incoming class yet, with 2,183 students. This 26% increase reflects the institution’s rising reputation and popularity among prospective students. President Houston Davis expects a significant rise in residential hall occupants, with around 400 more students compared to last year. Move-in day was a success, with volunteers providing assistance and creating a welcoming atmosphere for the new class.

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Seniors impacted by Wedington Place rent increases receive assistance

Seniors impacted by Wedington Place rent increases receive assistance

Seniors impacted by recent rent increases at Wedington Place Senior Apartments in Fayetteville have received assistance. The residents, many of whom are low-income and/or disabled, were facing significant rate hikes after the property was taken over by a new out-of-state management company, Ace Telluride-AR LLC, which purchased the property for .2 million in July.

The rent increases have been particularly burdensome for the residents, with single-unit apartments going from 0 to 00 and two-bedroom units rising from 00 to 50. While some tenants have vouchers from Housing and Urban Development or Veterans Affairs, more than half pay out of pocket. This increase has left many struggling to make ends meet, with some fearing they may need to choose between food and rent.

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Mayoral candidates discuss the housing crisis, regionalism, homelessness, and school safety

Mayoral candidates discuss the housing crisis, regionalism, homelessness, and school safety

Mayoral candidates in cities across the country are tackling issues like housing crises and homelessness in their campaigns. Each candidate brings a unique perspective to the table, with approaches ranging from expanding affordable housing to immediate action on homelessness. Emphasis is also placed on regionalism, city development, education, and public safety in these campaigns.

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Ward 2 Candidates Discuss Housing Task Force, Infill Development, and the 71B Corridor

Ward 2 Candidates Discuss Housing Task Force, Infill Development, and the 71B Corridor

Two candidates seeking the Ward 2 seat on Fayetteville’s City Council discussed critical issues such as the housing task force, infill development, and the future of the 71B corridor in a recent public forum. Moderated by Wayne Mays from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce, the forum provided a platform for the candidates to share their visions for addressing housing needs and revitalizing key areas within the city. Both candidates emphasized the importance of the housing task force in identifying and addressing Fayetteville’s housing challenges, as well as the potential for infill development to enhance community connectedness and support local businesses. They also discussed the redevelopment opportunities along the 71B corridor, emphasizing the need for collaboration between city officials, residents, and investors to achieve Fayetteville’s development goals.

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