Some say the American Dream of home ownership is on life-support given the global economic crisis.

In St. Charles County, the American Dream has been alive and well and setting records for decades.  And even though our community in metro St. Louis is better insulated than most parts of the USA, we are still feeling and seeing the impact of new housing construction going into a serious downturn.

Yes, local home sales are taking place at a reasonable pace and long-term forecasts for appreciated value are good.  But new housing construction has been one of the pillars of growth in St. Charles County since the 1980s.  Our area has consistently led the St. Louis region in new housing starts and still does even in today’s slower market.

It was not many years ago when 3,500 to 4,000 permits were issued for new single, family home construction in our community.  By comparison, we finished 2008 with around 1,200 permits for new single family home construction.  Most bankers and builders I talk with tell me we are facing a new era when it comes to housing development in St. Charles County.

Anytime we turn a corner and a new trend and new approach begins to emerge, it can be a trying time.  At the EDC, we think a new era in housing is unfolding in our community and region.  That makes this the perfect to take a step back and re-evaluate our approach to housing development in St. Charles County.

As a community, we need to wrestle with important questions such as making sure we have diverse housing stock that includes affordable and start-up homes.  We need to make sure we paying attention to new trends and best practices for energy efficiency in housing, protecting and incorporating more green space, considering new approaches to density, and encouraging more walkable and sustainable neighborhoods and community development.  Local communities such as Dardenne Prairie and developments like New Town in St. Charles and WingHaven in O’Fallon are helping lead the way and showcasing new possibilities.

When it comes to the future of housing in St. Charles County, MO, it’s time to dream again.

I invite you to send us your thoughts on this topic, and I encourage you to register and attend our Housing Summit on June 2, 2009.  Our goal is to look ahead and work for the future together.

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