Addressing Homelessness Through Housing

Homelessness is no longer a problem confined to large cities — it’s a growing challenge for communities of every size. It’s also a clear sign of Kentucky’s widening housing divide and the urgent need for more available, affordable homes. Whether you manage zoning and permitting, plan infrastructure, or look for ways to attract new development, housing affects every part of city operations. That is why KLC is gathering state and local experts on the housing and homelessness issue for the 2025 KLC Virtual Housing and Homelessness Summit.

The November event will bring together state housing experts, local innovators, and industry professionals who are finding creative, realistic approaches. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the data behind Kentucky’s housing and homelessness trends, hear real-world examples of how cities are expanding their housing supply, and connect with leaders ready to collaborate and drive change.

The most recent statewide K-Count revealed that 5,789 Kentuckians are experiencing homelessness — 0.13% of the population. Of those, 1,998 are unsheltered, 3,159 are in emergency shelters, and 632 are in transitional housing. The count also identified 386 veterans, 1,132 adults with serious mental illness, 1,068 with substance use disorders, and 526 whose attribute their homelessness to domestic violence. The numbers underscore the complex, deeply personal realities behind the issue and the critical role cities play in coordinating local responses.

Recent discussions at the Kentucky Housing Corporation’s Affordable Housing Conference made one point clear: every segment of the housing market affects the others. When there’s a lack of inventory at one level, the impact ripples through the entire system. Builders and developers emphasized that collaboration with local governments is essential. Experts also noted that terms like “income-aligned housing” can help shift public perception and remove the stigma often tied to “affordable housing.” Cities such as Owensboro, Bowling Green, Henderson, and Covington are setting strong examples through proactive planning, infrastructure investment, and the innovative use of tools such as TIFs, industrial revenue bonds, and partnerships with local employers.

Legislators are also paying attention. The Kentucky Legislative Task Force on Housing is studying how the state can help address shortages and homelessness. Members of the task force agree that housing and economic development are inseparable — to have jobs, communities must have homes. They will update attendees at the Housing and Homelessness Summit on the task force's progress.

Speakers and sessions will also cover the state of homelessness in Kentucky and how cities can accelerate housing supply and include insights from builders on what truly helps — and hinders — progress. Participants will hear city-led success stories and expert perspectives on planning for future growth.

Homelessness and housing shortages will not resolve themselves, but Kentucky’s cities have the power to lead. The 2025 KLC Virtual Housing and Homelessness Summit offers the knowledge, tools, and partnerships local leaders need to take meaningful action.

Beginning in June 2025, new requirements under KRS Chapter 100 mandate that planning and zoning board members complete eight hours of continuing education over four years, including one hour focused explicitly on housing. This summit qualifies toward that training requirement.