Housing topped the list for local growing pains needing creative ideas and solutions in La Conner at the June 30 public forum at the Town’s Civic Garden Club.

Skagit County Community Action Executive Director Bill Henkel confirmed that demand for housing here far exceeds supply. He was one of the event’s three panelists, joining Town Administrator Scott Thomas and Director of Planning Michael Davolio.

“There are lots of reasons,” Henkel told the 20-plus people in attendance. “First, this is an incredible place to live.”

That demand, resulting in soaring housing costs, is reflective in one key...