Western Nebraska Partners Are Developing Home-Grown Solutions at the 2026 Rural Housing Conference
February 23, 2026
Several organizations and individuals across Western Nebraska are planning to meet on Friday, April 10, to discuss issues related to the local housing market. The 2026 Rural Housing Conference will be held at Weborg 21 Centre, 2625 10th Street, in Gering from 8:00 AM until 4:15 PM, with professional networking to follow.
“We’re looking forward to this conference to look at new ideas on how we can address the housing shortage,” says Cinda Munoz, President of Western Nebraska Housing Opportunities. “We plan to focus on five to six key problems and will try to identify solutions to overcome them.”
This is what the conference leaders mean when they talk about “home-grown solutions.” While communities across the United States have housing problems, Western Nebraska has a few unique challenges and opportunities that set it apart. This conference will focus on the state of the region and how to support it.
The Conference Brings in Multiple Partners and Stakeholders
This conference brings together representatives from Western Nebraska Housing Opportunities, Trusted Community Development, the Western Nebraska Board of Realtors, the Panhandle Partnership, Visit Scottsbluff, and Visit Gering. Organizers have reached out to city planners and zoning boards, and economic development teams. Real estate agents, developers, contractors, landlords, and anyone within the region is invited to attend.
Local businesses might also find value in attending the conference if they hire employees from outside Western Nebraska. Munoz explains that she often gets calls from people considering relocating to the area for work. They had a successful job interview, but want to learn about the communities and need to find somewhere to live.
Collaboration Creates Opportunities for Problem Solving
When diverse minds come together, great ideas form. By bringing in players from several organizations across Western Nebraska, the conference can drive solutions to increase local housing inventory – especially for lower- to middle-income buyers and renters.
Munoz explains that it is harder for rural communities to attract development projects compared to major metropolitan areas like nearby Denver. For example, Supplies for building are shipped in adding increased costs, lack of skilled labor is another factor. New construction costs are high due to several factors. These houses also often sell for less because of the local market.
This is why building new houses isn’t the only solution. There are opportunities to rehabilitate distressed properties to prevent them from falling into disrepair and to create financial incentives that make buying a house viable for a larger share of the population. Western Nebraska Housing Opportunities has led first-time homebuyer classes and offered downpayment assistance programs to contribute to these efforts.
Adding Housing Can Help Families While Growing the Region
Access to housing creates comfort for Western Nebraska families and allows them to live the American Dream. Many people dream of owning their homes and building their wealth as they pay off their mortgage. Renters also deserve a place to live that is safe, comfortable, and suitable for their family size.
“People move to or stay in a particular place because of its quality of life,” says Jordan Diedrich, Executive Director of Trusted Community Development. “The factors that contribute to that include access to good schools and amenities, a network of friends and family, and comfortable housing. By focusing on access to housing, we can contribute to the growth of Western Nebraska in the future.”
In addition to the April 10 conference, Western Nebraska Housing Opportunities has invited Paul Vojchehoske from Omaha, who will be teaching a “Fair Housing” Class to Realtors and landlords in the area. The Fair Housing Session is a continuing education opportunity for local real estate agents, but local landlords are also encouraged to attend. This will be held at the Platte Valley Community Center. This will be held on Thursday Afternoon from 1 PM to 4 PM.
Register for the 2026 Housing Conference Today
Registration is live for the 2026 Housing Conference through the Panhandle Partnership. The Fair Housing Session costs $45 to attend, while conference registration is $125. Lunch is included. There are also two free home tours you can attend, but you need to register in advance. Buy your tickets now and secure your spot to have a voice in the future of Western Nebraska’s housing ecosystem.
If you cannot attend this year’s housing conference, stay up to date with Trusted Community Development to follow local housing trends. This is a big issue in the region, and TCD frequently shares news and insights related to the buyer and rental market. Contact us to discuss the issue further.
