NIFA opens door to administering Economic Development housing programs

LINCOLN — The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority took first steps Friday toward administering housing programs currently operated by the state Department of Economic Development.

The state housing group unanimously adopted a resolution letting DED transfer administrative power over its housing programs to the state agency in charge of helping low- and moderate-income homebuyers finance purchases, though no transfer has yet taken place.

NIFA Executive Director Shannon Harner said the resolution essentially just says the agency is open to accepting DED housing programs.

DED manages a collection of housing programs, some of which are funded through the state and others federally. Harner said state-funded programs would require legislative approval before they can be transferred to NIFA. NIFA spokeswoman Elizabeth Fimbres said the agency already administers the state’s Low Income Housing Tax Credit program.

It’s unclear how many housing programs the move might impact. Justin Pinkerman, a DED spokesperson, declined to answer how many programs the department is considering transferring.

The decision comes as DED’s total workforce has significantly shrunk. No fewer than 22 employees have exited the department between September and November.

Pinkerman confirmed that DED’s housing director also resigned last week, although he said the departure did not play a role in the NIFA resolution.

Pinkerman declined to answer how transferring programs to NIFA might impact DED’s remaining housing staff. When asked why DED was considering the move, he said DED has collaborated with NIFA for some time to increase the availability of affordable housing.

“We are pleased that Nebraska has been recognized as a top state for homebuilding and housing affordability,” Pinkerman said in an email. “Together, our agencies are considering administrative arrangements that will most effectively build on this success.”