WC Wisconsin News

The Vernon County Board of Supervisors has adopted the county’s first Housing Report, marking the culmination of a year-long collaboration between the Vernon County Housing Task Force and UW–Madison Extension. The report aims to address challenges related to housing affordability and availability in the region.

Over the past year, the Housing Task Force gathered and analyzed regional and county-specific housing data, engaged residents through surveys and public comments, and facilitated community discussions. These efforts led to a set of recommendations intended to guide future development in Vernon County.

“Vernon County is poised for growth, and with that growth comes both opportunity and responsibility. As more people choose to make Vernon County their home, we must ensure that housing is safe, affordable, and aligned with the needs of our workforce and communities. We must also approach housing with fairness, sustainability, and long-term well-being in mind,” said Wayde Lawler, Vernon County Board Supervisor (District 14) and Housing Task Force Member.

Key findings from the report indicate that 58–60 new housing units will be needed annually over the next decade to meet projected population growth. The report also notes that one in four households are cost-burdened or live in housing with at least one HUD-identified issue such as overcrowding or excessive costs. There is a particular need for rental options for lower-income individuals and mobile populations. Older adults face unique issues as many own homes but struggle with affordability or accessibility when seeking rental housing. Additionally, 80% of homes in Vernon County are more than 45 years old, limiting available mixed housing types.

The analysis highlights income distribution patterns and commuter workforce trends that point to a need for diverse housing options along key corridors. According to enrollment data from the 2023-24 school year, Viroqua High School had 301 students enrolled—the highest in the county—followed by Westby High School with 297 students and Westby Middle School with 294 students (https://dpi.wi.gov/). Demographic data show that white students made up just over 92% of the student body during this period (https://dpi.wi.gov/), while smaller ethnic groups accounted for less than 5% each but together represented nearly 8% of all students (https://dpi.wi.gov/). Multiracial students were noted as making up about 3.3% of local enrollment (https://dpi.wi.gov/).

County leaders expect the Housing Report will serve as a resource for developers, employers, community partners, and policymakers seeking to expand safe, affordable housing options throughout Vernon County. The full report can be accessed online at https://www.vernoncountywi.gov/departments/community_development/housing_task_force.php