What the Housing Steering Committee Means for Our Villages
Across the Kodiak Archipelago, our communities share many of the same challenges related to housing: limited availability, aging homes, high construction costs, and the need for flexible, locally driven solutions. As KEDC moves into the implementation phase of the Housing Action Plan, we want to ensure that village communities remain informed, involved, and represented every step of the way.
The Housing Steering Committee (HSC), reconvened on October 28, brings together partners from the City, Borough, tribes, nonprofits, and local employers to coordinate the work ahead. A key part of this coordination includes recognizing the unique needs of Kodiak’s villages and ensuring that the Housing Action Plan reflects both urban and rural perspectives.
Village Housing Is a Central Priority
The Housing Action Plan includes a dedicated theme on Invest in Kodiak Village Housing, which highlights the importance of:
rehabilitating existing homes,
improving infrastructure and building conditions,
supporting local workforce programs,
working alongside tribal governments, and
strengthening access to funding and technical support.
We heard clearly from partners that village housing is essential to economic health, cultural continuity, and supporting families who want to stay rooted in their community. These insights continue to shape how the Steering Committee approaches Year 1 priorities.
What Comes Next
Over the coming weeks, KEDC will:
share the HSC meeting notes and summary with village partners,
invite feedback from Tribal Councils and community members,
schedule opportunities for village leaders to participate in upcoming HSC discussions,
prepare a brief “Housing Action Plan for Villages” overview, and
offer Zoom participation for future meetings for those who cannot attend in person.
Your Voice Matters
Village input is critical to building solutions that reflect the experiences and needs of the entire region. Whether you are working on housing through a tribal program, supporting families as they navigate repairs, or watching local housing conditions shift over time, your perspective strengthens this work.
KEDC looks forward to continuing these conversations with Port Lions, Ouzinkie, Old Harbor, Larsen Bay, Akhiok, and Karluk, and to making sure each community has a clear path to participate as the Housing Action Plan moves forward.
If you have questions or would like to connect directly, please reach out anytime. We welcome the opportunity to hear from you.
