Nonprofit Perceptions Of Local Government Performance In Affordable Housing.pdf

This study examines executive directors' views on local government performance regarding affordable housing, building on existing research about government and community-based nonprofits' roles in this sector.

Methodology:

A national survey of Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS) organizations funded by NeighborWorks America was conducted, focusing on:

Local government performance in affordable housing
Factors influencing local government funding decisions

Survey data were supplemented with information from the NeighborWorks America website.

Findings:

The study found that NHS organizations are generally dissatisfied with local government performance in affordable housing. Their grades for local government were lower than those given to other levels of government, intermediary organizations, and private financial institutions. This dissatisfaction is attributed to:

Declining governmental support: The shrinking role of local governments in affordable housing policy has left a gap that nonprofits have been forced to fill.
Growing influence of intermediaries and the private sector: Foundations and private sector partners have increased their involvement, potentially leading to a shift in priorities away from public interest.

Implications:

The research highlights the need for local governments to take a more active and activist role in affordable housing policy. This includes:

Strengthening partnerships with nonprofits
Providing technical assistance and financial support
* Fostering stronger community development infrastructure

The study argues that without a robust public sector, the devolution and nonprofitization of affordable housing policy could lead to excesses driven by neoliberal influences and the growing power of private entities.