WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson highlighted the inclusion $4,000,000 for the Stanley Workforce Housing Economic Development Initiative in Stanley, Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2024 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Bill. 

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

“Between high construction costs, the short tourist season, and the lack of available land, temporary and permanent employees throughout Stanley have faced a pressing housing challenge,” said Rep. Simpson. “By prioritizing affordable workforce housing, we can significantly impact the lives of Stanley employees and the community. I am proud to stand up for Stanley and lead this critical effort.”

“Stanley's importance as the gateway to outdoor recreation in the Sawtooth Valley and surrounding Wilderness areas continues to increase every year,” said Steve Botti, Stanley City Mayor. “As the demand for recreation services has increased, Stanley has struggled to meet that demand due to the lack of adequate, affordable, workforce housing. Congressman Mike Simpson's $4 million Economic Development Initiative funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal budget appropriation provides a wonderful opportunity for the Stanley community to provide safe, comfortable, housing for essential permanent and temporary workers. This timely assistance will help Stanley provide the means for sustainable economic development to improve the quality of life for both Stanley residents and visitors alike.”

This funding will be used to construct affordable housing for up to 80 temporary and permanent employees and their families in Stanley, Idaho. Additionally, this project would provide significant relief to that shortage and, by making year-round housing available, would provide better opportunities for economic growth.

As Idaho’s only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho’s priorities and ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho. Rep. Simpson was the only member of the Idaho delegation to vote in favor of funding for Stanley Workforce Housing.