The City of Madras has been proactive in addressing its housing challenges through initiatives initiated since 2019, which include updating development regulations and streamlining the permitting process. However, the city has only managed to permit 330 new dwellings since 2020, with only 47% of these being classified as workforce or affordable housing. The ongoing issues of high interest rates and rising infrastructure costs continue to hinder the construction of necessary housing units. In response, Oregon State Representative Lucetta Elmer has introduced House Bill 4134, aimed at providing direct grants to cities for infrastructure improvements that would support workforce housing developments. This legislation stipulates that 30% of the units in each development must be affordable for a minimum of ten years.

On February 6th, the Community Development Director of Madras testified in support of the bill alongside Rep. Elmer and representatives from the Home Builders Association of Oregon. If the bill is approved, it could secure a $3. 9 million grant for Madras, facilitating the construction of critical infrastructure for four housing developments within two years. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to meeting the housing needs of its residents.