Graham Noble
Oct 14, 2026
WJFW News: Rhinelander business owners concerned and struggle to attract talent due to housing shortage
Wisconsin’s housing shortage is making it harder for businesses to attract and retain workers. In Rhinelander, a community in Northern Wisconsin, local business owners are especially feeling the impact.
Our Housing Policy Director, Ken Smith, recently joined a panel discussion hosted by the Onedia County Economic Development Corporation to discuss potential solutions for Rhinelander – including reducing parking mandates, allowing more homes in existing neighborhoods, updating land-use policies, and converting vacant buildings into housing.
Expanding housing options helps more than homebuyers and renters. It also helps Wisconsin communities and businesses thrive.
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