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Inaugural Missing Middle Housing Summit to Transform Baton Rouge Housing Landscape

Ivory D. Payne

Jun 1, 2024 — 2 min read

BATON ROUGE, LA — On May 2nd and 3rd, the Jewel J. Newman Community Center will host the inaugural Missing Middle Housing Summit, a transformative event addressing East Baton Rouge Parish housing disparities. Led by a dedicated team and coordinated by Councilwoman Chauna Banks, this summit promises to catalyze change.

The summit's agenda, carefully curated by Councilwoman Banks, features a lineup of expert speakers and interactive sessions to tackle key housing development and community revitalization issues. Attendees will be able to discuss sustainable housing practices, economic empowerment, and the demographic shifts shaping housing trends.

Wednesday, May 2nd:

9:15 a.m.: "Adjudicated Properties: Tips and Tricks for Unlocking Their Potential" led by William “Billy” Aaron, II, Special Assistant Parish Attorney for the City of Baton Rouge/East Baton Rouge Parish.
10:30 a.m.: "Keys to Sustainable Housing Development" presented by Eric Porter, President, and Senior Partner of ComNet, LLC.
1:00 p.m.: "The Role of Housing in Economic Development" featuring Marjorianna B. Willman, Executive Director of the Louisiana Housing Corporation.

Thursday, May 3rd:

9:15 a.m.: "Demographic Shifts in Multifamily Housing Trends" by John K. Pierre, Chancellor of SULC/SU System Interim Executive Vice President/Newly Appointed Chancellor of SU A&M College.
10:30 a.m.: "The Building Permit Process: Cost, Timeline and What to Expect" presented by Vance Baldwin, Assistant Planning Director for the City of Baton Rouge/East Baton Rouge Parish.
1:00 p.m.: "Loan Programs: Housing and Community Development" with insights from Bridgette Homer, Director of Home Ownership Programs at the Capital Area Finance Authority.

Councilwoman Banks emphasized the summit's significance: "The Missing Middle Housing Summit represents an opportunity for us to drive meaningful change in our communities. Together, we can create housing solutions that benefit all residents."

Through her leadership and advocacy, Councilwoman Banks continues championing initiatives promoting equity, opportunity, and social justice. The Missing Middle Housing Summit is a testament to her dedication to advancing the well-being of all individuals and families in East Baton Rouge Parish.

The summit promises to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to address housing disparities and create a more equitable future for all East Baton Rouge Parish residents.

For more information and registration, please visit: Missing Middle Housing Summit Eventbrite Page

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