Scaling Up: Harnessing Economies of Scale to Alleviate Housing Needs
Sheri Alber • July 18, 2024
Scaling Up: Harnessing Economies of Scale to Alleviate Housing Needs
Amanda Engell and Charlie McPherson, McCook Economic Development Corporation, presented great information about housing growth in McCook. A community without a new subdivision since before 1980, McCook is now seeing the construction of duplexes, single-family homes, infill development, and a new swimming pool as a result of intentional, invested activity in the community.

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. Participants were encouraged to revisit past webinars for insights and to attend the upcoming session on June 19th featuring Michelle Cole. The session emphasized the value of small takeaways from presentations and invited community members to share their stories for future webinars.