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in Messages from the President

Last week, I had the opportunity to represent the Upper Valley Business Alliance as part of the Urban Land Institute Boston's Technical Assistance Panel (TAP), invited by the City of Lebanon to help identify practical steps for addressing our region's housing shortage. Housing continues to be one of the biggest challenges facing our businesses. Employers across the Upper Valley struggle to recruit and retain talent when people can't find a place to live, and that challenge will only grow as our region continues to attract new residents, new employers, and new opportunities.

 Growth can be uncomfortable. It's natural to worry about traffic, taxes, or how new development changes the character of a community. But the Upper Valley isn't standing still, and pretending it is won't solve our housing shortage or make our communities more affordable. Responsible growth is part of building a stronger economic region, supporting our workforce, and ensuring the next generation can afford to live and work here.

I was encouraged to see Lebanon invite outside experts to evaluate its development process and recommend ways to move from planning to action. Of course, one report won't change long-standing perceptions or solve complex challenges overnight, but it represents a willingness to listen, collaborate, and look for solutions.

I'm grateful that UVBA had a seat at the table to bring the business community's perspective to the conversation. One of our roles is helping bring people together around shared challenges and finding practical paths forward. The strongest communities aren't built by avoiding difficult conversations; they're built by having them and then working together to take the next step.

You can hear the full ULI report and following Q&A from last week's city council meeting here - https://lebanonnh.portal.civicclerk.com/event/2535/media

The presentation runs from 35:00 - 1:35:00 ~Morgan Brophy
Originally posted by Upper Valley Business Alliance via Locable

Upper Valley Business Alliance

377 N. Main Street
West Lebanon, NH 03784
603-448-1203
www.uppervalleybusinessalliance.com

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