Morgantown Debates Urgent Action to Address Affordable Housing Crisis

As of October 5th, 2025, the city of Morgantown is facing a critical shortage of affordable housing options. According to a 2020 housing needs assessment, Morgantown has a dire need for over 1,000 "extremely low-income rental housing units" costing $550 per month or less. The shortage extends to very low-income ($551-$925/month) and low-income ($926-$1,475/month) units as well.

This housing crisis has led to a growing number of Morgantown residents being priced out of the market or spending well above the 30% threshold for affordable housing. The Fairmont Morgantown Housing Authority recently had to close its waiting list for Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers after it reached over 1,100 names, with an additional 150 individuals and families already vetted and awaiting assistance.

City Council members are divided on the urgency to address this issue. Councilor Mark Downs has expressed frustration over the lack of tangible progress, arguing that the time for action was "way in the past." Meanwhile, Mayor Danielle Trumble acknowledges the planning commission's growing frustration with the slow pace of potentially beneficial zoning changes. The city administration is cautious, wanting to carefully assess the potential impacts of policy interventions before moving forward.

Despite the differing perspectives, there is a clear consensus that Morgantown must take decisive steps to increase the availability of affordable housing options for its residents. The city is now considering a range of programs, policies, and initiatives, from first-time homebuyer assistance to housing development incentives and zoning reforms. The next step is to facilitate community "listening sessions" to help prioritize the best course of action.