For rent sign city street

The city of Medford is inviting locals to participate in a panel discussion next week with city, county and nonprofit leaders on issues related to housing and the high cost of rent in the city.

Representatives from the city, the Housing Authority of Jackson County, UNETE and ACCESS will discuss the latest housing statistics, tenant protections and renter resources as part of a community discussion on the topic of rent burden. The event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, in the Prescott Room at Medford police headquarters, 219 S. Ivy St.

According to the city, 27.2% of Medford’s rental households are considered “severely rent burdened,” meaning they pay more than half of their income on rent.

Locals will be encouraged to share experiences and ask questions, according to the Medford Housing and Community Development Division’s meeting notice. The city plans to use feedback to guide “housing initiatives to address housing challenges, especially those related to rent burden.”

For more information or for those who will need translation assistance, contact the Housing and Community Development Division by email at hcd@cityofmedford.org or call 541-774-2380.