Tyler Baker, Native Homeownership Program Manager, recently attended the United Native American Housing Association (UNAHA) summer meeting in Polson, where Tribal Housing Authorities and stakeholders gathered to advance Native American housing initiatives. Representing the Montana Native Homeownership Coalition, Tyler shared the coalition’s mission and vision for expanding Native homeownership in Montana.
With the opportunity to foster new connections with peers across the country, UNAHA’s meeting was a great opportunity for Tyler to build relationships and learn from industry experts.
Key Presentations and Takeaways
Tyler attended several presentations, including updates from HUD and USDA on new programs and collaboration efforts to support Tribal housing. USDA announced an exciting new pilot program aimed at making the home appraisal process more accessible and affordable for Tribal communities. Traditionally, appraisals on Indian land have been a significant hurdle for homebuyers due to time, complexity, and cost involved. This pilot program seeks to address these challenges by allowing local Tribal housing authorities or housing professionals to submit relevant information, including photos and property details, directly to USDA who will then conduct an official appraisal at no cost to the homebuyer, eliminating a major financial barrier.
In additional to the appraisal program, HUD and USDA also shared updates on their product options, including Section 502 Direct Loan Program, Section 502 Guaranteed Loan Program, and Section 184 Indian Housing Loan Guarantee Program. These loan programs are specifically tailored to meet the needs of Tribal communities, offering flexible income requirements and payment assistance for low to very low-income households, with no down payment required for single-family housing through the USDA programs.
A presentation on the Tribal Home Electrification and Appliance program highlighted innovative approaches to sustainable housing. This program provides funding for Tribes to modernize their housing infrastructure by upgrading to high-efficiency electric appliances and in-home electrical panels as well as adding HVAC system efficiency improvements, insulation, air sealing, and ventilation. This initiative not only helps reduce energy costs but also contributes to healthier, more comfortable living environments for Tribal members. Amerind also provided important insights on home insurance, a critical component of long-term sustainability.
Dave Heisterkamp’s legislative update was particularly valuable, outlining key bills that could shape future Tribal housing policies. Some of the bills highlighted included Senate Bill 1275, “Bringing Useful Initiatives for Indian Land Development Act of 2017.” In short, this bill is the Senate Indian Affairs Committee’s version of NAHASDA re-authorization. The other bill discussed was Senate Bill 1333, “Tribal HUD VASH Act of 2017,” which pushed to make the Tribal HUD Veterans Supportive Housing vouchers a permanent program.
Honoring Bob Gauthier: The Gauthier Homesite Dedication
A highlight of the event was the Gauthier Homesite dedication, hosted by the Salish and Kootenai Housing Authority (SKHA). The ceremony celebrated the opening of a new affordable housing development named in honor of Robert “Bob” Gauthier, former Executive Director of SKHA. The SKHA held a ribbon cutting ceremony naming the housing development “Gauthier Ln.” located in Pablo Montana, which consists of 5 homes that are nearly move-in ready, with a larger journey of 47 new homes for Tribal members. Bob’s dedication to improving housing for Native Americans has left a legacy, and the homesites named after him serve as a tribute to his impactful work.
Looking Ahead
The Lessons learned and connections made at the UNAHA meeting are already shaping the coalition’s work. Tyler is optimistic about the possibilities ahead, stating, “I’m excited about the future and committed to applying these lessons to benefit Native communities across Montana.”
The group was able to visit the Never Alone Recovery Support Services Center – a drop-in center for individuals seeking recovery from addiction.
The Bob Gauthier Homesite Dedication which was hosted by the Salish and Kootenai Housing Authority (SKHA).
The group also stopped at the Tribal Council Chambers, where council memebers answered a few questions from the conference attendees.