Area Set to Host Economic Development &

Fair Housing Initiatives Conference

A “Ten Year Roadmap for the Future” will be the theme of the upcoming Economic Development and Fair Housing Initiatives Conference scheduled for April 6^th, 7^th and 8^th at Lamar State College in Orange.   

 This conference is the result of a merger of two similar conferences held last year: the Housing Initiatives and Economic Development Conference held in February 2004 and the Golden Triangle Fair Housing Conference held in April 2004.  The merging of these two conferences will provide participants timely and invaluable information over the span of the three days scheduled for this great event!

 This conference will give area social service agencies, real estate developers, homebuilders, governmental representatives, economic development professionals and financial institutions an opportunity to focus on the common needs and concerns of the citizens of South East Texas.

 There has been much progress in the housing and economic development arena in recent years.  America is currently realizing the highest homeownership numbers in history.  The economy is slowly returning to pre- 9/11 numbers and the unemployment rate is leveling.  However, barriers still exist that make the American Dream an illusion for many — particularly families with low to moderate incomes.

 Over the three days of this conference, we will have presentations and break out sessions led by some of the most informed and active professionals in their respective fields.  Thirty panelists from throughout the country will speak on over a dozen topics ranging from retail development to developing housing for special populations. 

 The main conference begins Thursday, April 7^th at 8:30 a.m.   However, several pre-conference workshops have been scheduled for Wednesday, April 6^th.  By popular demand, we will be hosting a workshop on Grant Writing and Development to help area agencies navigate the public and private funding arena.   A workshop for first time homebuyers will also be held, as well as an informational session for area bankers and mortgage professionals on exciting new homeownership programs.

 Exhibitors will also be on hand to inform attendees of the many products and services that are available to housing and economic development professionals.  For more information on registration, or if you would like to be an exhibitor, please visit our website at http://www.bmtha.org/Conference/index2.htm and download the registration form, or call us at 409-899-5055.   The deadline for registration is March 18^th.