Housing Ready Task Force Final Report

  LAWRENCE HOUSING READY TASK FORCE ISSUES FINAL REPORT

Mayor Whitfield Lauds Task Force’s Work

Lawrence, IN – The Housing Ready Task Force, convened by Lawrence Mayor Deb Whitfield last May, has issued its final report outlining forward-thinking strategies to strengthen the city’s housing landscape. Guided by a mission to promote sustainable, diverse residential options, the Task Force focused on policies designed to meet the evolving needs of Lawrence residents — positioning the city to become a true “Housing Ready City.”

The Task Force met weekly through January 2026 and interviewed more than 30 subject-matter experts on a range of housing-related topics. Topics included:

• Governmental Policies, Systems and Tools

• Affordable Housing Development

• Homeowner Financing Tools

• Landlord Tenant Relations

• Home Repair

• Homelessness Issues

Task Force Members included Lawrence City Councilors Liz Masur and Tyrell Giles, MIBOR Political Director Lacey Everett, local housing expert Alison Cole, home builder Jerrod Klein, Realtors Judy Dages and Eric Walton, former Lawrence Councilor Shawn Denney, and Lawrence DPW Director Renea Rafala (ex officio). Lawrence Director of Communications for Fund Development Jim Perron served as the Task Force’s coordinator.

The Task Force’s report notes that a key part of its recommendation will be predicated upon the City gaining full zoning control, which is expected to occur in the second half of this year. At that time, a Plan Commission will need to be empaneled, and a zoning ordinance will need to be enacted.

In accepting the Housing Ready Task Force Report, Mayor Whitfield thanked the Members for their hard work and dedication, stating, “The result of your work is not the end, but the beginning of Lawrence’s journey towards becoming a Housing Ready City.” 

To review the Housing Ready Task Force Final report, click on the link below.

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About the City of Lawrence, Indiana:  

Located northeast of Indianapolis, the City of Lawrence is Indiana’s 20th largest city and home to approximately 50,000 residents. While its military base was decommissioned in 1996, Lawrence has grown into a vibrant community that blends rich history with modern amenities. Under the leadership of Mayor Deb Whitfield, the city continues to thrive as a welcoming place to live, work, and play. Learn more at cityoflawrence.org.