Approximately 30 people, representing a cross section of the community, came together Feb. 6 to continue a conversation on affordable housing on the Plateau.

Chris Jowell, director of Catholic Housing Services of Western Washington, provided an overview of the types of housing that group builds. His presentation also included a list of questions that need to be answered: who will be housed? (Population: seniors or farmworkers, etc.); where will the housing be built? and whether housing can be built depends upon capacity and funding issues, as well as the issue of sustainability (ongoing operations).

Answering these questions is a multi-faceted process. In addition, Jowell provided an overview of the development process and various funding sources.

“It can be messy,” he said, indicating the complexities of such an undertaking. Developing affordable housing does not follow a straight line, but if the community and its leaders are committed to the process it can and will happen, Jowell added.

The group was heartened by representatives from the King County Library System who offered the services of their reference department. Some research has already been done. Anyone who would like to know more is urged to contact Lynell Caudillo at 360-825-3820.

The next gathering will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 18, in the Community Room of the Enumclaw library. The public is welcome to join the ongoing conversation.