The House Concurrent Resolution honors Mary Houghton of Brattleboro for her exceptional advocacy in promoting sustainable and affordable housing in Vermont over nearly four decades. Beginning her impactful career in 1987 as the director of finance at the Burlington Community Land Trust (BCLT), Houghton played a pivotal role in establishing the organization as a leading community land trust in the nation. Her dedication and leadership were instrumental in the successful merger of BCLT with the Lake Champlain Housing Development Corporation, resulting in the formation of the Champlain Housing Trust, which has significantly enhanced resources for affordable housing initiatives.

In addition to her foundational work at BCLT, Houghton has contributed to the Brattleboro Housing Authority and various housing boards, including the Windham & Windsor Housing Trust and the Vermont State Housing Authority. Her commitment to affordable housing has been recognized with awards such as the George Nutting Community Catalyst Award from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of State to send a copy of the resolution to Houghton, acknowledging her remarkable contributions to the community and the field of affordable housing.