Vernon County’s first Housing Report officially adopted

VERNON COUNTY, WIS (CIVIC MEDIA) – The Vernon County Board of Supervisors has officially adopted the county’s first Housing Report, the result of a year-long collaboration between the Vernon County Housing Task Force and UW–Madison Extension.

Recognizing the growing challenges around housing affordability and availability, Vernon County took the lead on this study to better understand current conditions and help chart a path forward. Over the past year, the Housing Task Force analyzed regional and county-specific housing data, facilitated community conversations, collected input from residents through surveys and public comment, and developed data-informed recommendations for the future.

The result is the Vernon County Housing Report which provides both a clear picture of the county’s housing landscape and a road map for future development.

Key findings show

58 to 60 new housing units annually are needed to accommodate projected population growth over the next decade.

One in four households are cost-burdened or live in housing with at least one HUD-identified issue such as overcrowding, incomplete facilities, or excessive costs.

Rental housing, particularly for lower-income and mobile populations, is a need.

Older adults face unique challenges – many own homes but struggle with affordability and accessibility in rental housing.

An aging housing stock. 80% of homes are more than 45 years old, with limited availability of mixed housing types.

Income distribution and commuter workforce highlight the need for housing options that serve a range of incomes and are located along key commuter corridors.

The Housing Report will serve as a tool for county leaders, developers, employers, and community partners to expand safe, affordable, and diverse housing options. It emphasizes proactive, inclusive strategies to support sustainable growth and strengthen community resilience.

The full Vernon County Housing Report and Report Summary are available at:

vernoncountywi.gov/departments/community_development/housing_task_force.php.

---