On January 30, 2025, the Q1 Southwest Connecticut Manufacturing Regional Sector Partnership (SWCMP) Meeting took place at OEM Controls in Shelton, bringing together manufacturers, policymakers, and community leaders to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing the industry: workforce housing. With Connecticut committing $800 million to build and preserve affordable housing, the discussion focused on how zoning policies, employer-led initiatives, and public-private partnerships can help manufacturing employees live closer to their jobs.

Key Takeaways from the Panel Discussion

• The Manufacturer’s Perspective – Sam Simmons (OEM Controls) & Nicole Russo (Microboard, Inc.)
  Attracting and retaining employees is directly tied to housing availability and affordability. Manufacturers are seeking alternative housing solutions to improve workforce stability and quality of life.

• The Community Perspective – David Morgan (TEAM, Inc.)
  Workforce housing is a long-term investment that directly impacts job opportunities and economic stability. Trust and community partnerships are essential for developing sustainable housing solutions.

• The Developer’s Perspective – Tom Haynes (Haynes Group)
  Zoning and permitting challenges continue to slow workforce housing development. Business and community leaders must advocate for policy changes to support housing accessibility.

• The Policy Perspective – Mayor Mark Lauretti (City of Shelton) & Maribel La Luz (CT Department of Housing)
  Municipal leadership plays a critical role in economic development and housing initiatives. Connecticut has committed $800 million to build and preserve affordable housing, but more collaboration is needed at the local level.

• The Role of the SWCT Manufacturing RSP – Mike Rocheleau (PTA Plastics)
  The SWCT Manufacturing Partnership provides a platform for manufacturers to collaborate on shared challenges. Housing is a workforce issue, and manufacturers must be involved in shaping solutions.

Engage with the SWCT Manufacturing RSP by reaching out to Denise Weaver at [email protected] to get involved, and advocate for workforce housing solutions by supporting zoning changes and employer-led initiatives. Collaboration among employers, employees, builders, town officials, the Department of Housing, and other stakeholders is essential to overcoming these challenges and ensuring manufacturers can remain and thrive in Connecticut. Let’s work together to drive change.

Special thanks to Sam Simons (OEM Controls), Nicole Russo (Microboard), Mike Rocheleau (PTA Plastics), David Morgan (TEAM Inc.), Tom Haynes (Haynes Group), Mayor Mark Lauretti (City of Shelton), and Maribel La Luz (CT Department of Housing) for their insights. We also appreciate the support of ManufactureCT, the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Bridgeport Regional Business Council.