pressing issue in DeKalb County. “The nationwide housing shortage is hitting us hard. Material costs have doubled since COVID-19 and interest rates reached 8%, making it difficult for developers,” Mayor Clark notes.Auburn,Garrett,and Butler are all working on strategies to incentivize developers through tax abatements and infrastructure investments. Mayor Clark also notes that these efforts include working with local banks to create mortgage assistance programs that make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers. Mayor Fiandt highlights a specific concern: senior housing. “We lack housing options for our senior citizens. A former client, a retiree from Auburn Foundry, searched for housing in DeKalb but moved to another county. That’s unacceptable—we need to provide more options for aging residents,” Mayor Fiandt says. He also suggests that mixed-use developments incorporating both senior housing and community centers could be viable, allowing for greater engagement and connectivity among different generations. “We don’t have access to major highways like Auburn does, and builders prefer locations where they can construct 400 homes at once rather than smaller projects. Our best bet is redeveloping infill lots and repurposing existing structures,” Mayor Hartman explains. He also highlights a need for additional zoning flexibility, which could make it easier for smaller developments to gain approval. BUILDING A SKILLED WORKFORCE In addition to housing, workforce development is a significant priority. King explains that DeKalb County’s largest industry is manufacturing, and local schools have responded by incorporating advanced manufacturing, welding, and building trades programs. “We’ve worked closely with junior highs and high schools to provide workforce training that aligns with industry needs. When new companies come in, we immediately connect them with school program directors to ensure a steady talent pipeline,” King says. He also emphasizes the importance of apprenticeship programs, which allow students to gain real-world experience while completing their education. DeKalb County Courthouse 129 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 03 DEKALB COUNTY, IN
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