The Hawaiʻi County Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD) issued its request for proposals (RFP) for Affordable Housing Production (AHP) Program funding to eligible non-profit and for-profit organizations, public agencies, and community land trusts.
The funding is made possible through Ordinance 22-77, which appropriates a minimum of $5 million per year to OHCD to facilitate programs that will support, increase, and sustain the availability and accessibility of affordable housing on Hawaiʻi Island.
The County has set its funding priorities for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 funding round as follows:
1. Targeting the Gap Group (81% – 140% AMI):
The top priority is to increase units that serve households earning between 81% and 140% of the area median income (AMI). Often referred to as the “Gap Group,” these moderate-income families typically do not qualify for most state and federal housing assistance programs yet still struggle to afford market-rate housing. By extending funding availability beyond the traditional 80% AMI threshold, the AHP Program aims to address this unmet need and increase access to attainable housing for this underserved population.
2. Homeownership Initiatives with Extended Affordability:
The second priority is to support sustainable homeownership opportunities. This includes initiatives for first-time home buyers that ensure lasting affordability through resale restrictions, shared equity models, or similar mechanisms to promote community stability and support long-term wealth-building for local residents.
3. Preservation of Existing Units:
The third priority is to sustain the County’s existing affordable housing stock. This includes rehabilitating both rental and owner-occupied units to meet safe, sanitary, and sustainable living standards. Preserving these homes helps maintain affordability, prevent displacement, and strengthens neighborhood stability.
Proposals, which are due by 4:30 p.m. on July 7. must be submitted electronically at www.hawaiicounty.gov/ahp.
For more information on AHP, email ohcd.ahp@hawaiicounty.gov.