causing some real challenges for us.” Sipe acknowledges that these challenges are not unique to Indiana but are part of a broader national trend. However, he believes Indiana is in a better position than many other states due to its affordability. “Even with these pressures, Indiana remains one of the more affordable states to live in,” Sipe says.“That’s something we should be proud of.” REAL-TIME HOUSING DATA To address these challenges, Sipe and his team have developed several forward-thinking solutions to make housing more accessible and affordable. Among the standout initiatives is the Indiana Housing Dashboard, a cutting-edge data platform providing real-time insights into statewide housing trends. “We collaborated with a wide range of housing stakeholders—realtors, mortgage bankers, developers, and advocates—to create a comprehensive resource for housing data,” Sipe explains.“The goal is to equip communities with the knowledge they need to shape effective housing strategies.” The dashboard offers users access to various data, such as housing needs assessments, job statistics, income levels, and demographic trends. “You can generate a housing needs assessment for your county, city, or even a specific census tract in seconds,” Sipe notes. “It’s an invaluable resource for local governments, developers, and community organizations.” The dashboard provides up-to-the-minute data, enabling communities to craft targeted housing strategies tailored to their specific needs. “Our aim is to give local leaders the tools they need to attract developers and build the right housing for their communities,” says Sipe. “It’s not just about adding more housing—it’s about creating the right fit for each area.” The success of the Indiana Housing Dashboard has gained national attention, with several states now replicating the model. “I believe about 13 other states have adopted similar platforms,” Sipe adds.“It’s exciting to see this innovation spreading nationwide.” additional pressure on homebuyers and renters,” Sipe says. We’re seeing rents increase rapidly, and there’s limited inventory of existing homes for sale.” Like many other states, Indiana is struggling to keep up with the demand for housing, especially as its economy continues to grow.“We’re producing more jobs than we are housing,” Sipe points out. “That’s 4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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