Affordable housing is a priority for Columbia’s new housing programs manager

By Brian Hauswirth
jake amelunke

Columbia’s new housing programs manager says he’ll work with nonprofits in the area and review the city’s internal affordable housing programs to address housing needs in the city.

jake amelunke
Columbia’s new housing programs manager is Columbia College graduate Jake Amelunke (2025 photo courtesy of Columbia spokeswoman Sydney Olsen)

Jake Amelunke began his new job on Monday. Columbia Housing and Neighborhood Services director Rebecca Thompson says his extensive experience with HUD programs, his relationships with nonprofits and his background in construction will be extremely valuable.

Mr. Amelunke has worked in Columbia’s Housing programs division since 2015, serving as a housing programs specialist and as the housing development coordinator. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Columbia College.

Columbia city manager De’Carlon Seewood has said that Columbia is grappling with a housing crisis and that there’s an overall shortage of housing.