FAIRMONT — Housing continues to be a top priority for the Fairmont Economic Development Authority. A recent housing study shows Fairmont could face a shortage of more than 400 housing units over the next five years. Officials say the city’s population of residents age 75 and older is projected to grow nearly 15 percent, while overall households are expected to decline slightly. The study also found more than 1,300 Fairmont households spend over 30 percent of their income on housing. Rental occupancy rates are also extremely tight, with more than 96 percent of multi-family rentals occupied. FEDA board members discussed possible ways to encourage development and housing restoration and agreed housing should remain a priority for economic growth. The group is now looking at creating a separate working group to focus specifically on housing.
