A Proactive Approach to Housing Production
Sheri Alber • May 15, 2025
A Proactive Approach to Housing Production
The 80th HomeNE Learning Network featured Jean Van Iperen, who discussed Columbus, Nebraska’s housing challenges and the city’s proactive strategies to address them. Jean highlighted the city’s 7% population growth and a shortage over 4 years of 387 homes, prompting efforts like zoning reform, streamlined permitting, and investment in new developments, including a 238-unit apartment complex. The city is also planning a new housing study, exploring affordable housing options, and considering mixed-use projects to meet evolving community needs.

The July HomeNE webinar featured Minden’s transformation of a long-vacant historic building into five affordable housing units and a new downtown business. Presenters shared financing strategies, renovation lessons, and the partnerships that helped create new housing opportunities and revitalize the community.




