A state housing expert and an Asheville City Council member are the guest speakers for the Cape Fear Housing Coalition's Annual Legislative Breakfast on Thursday morning, where the discussion will center on what's next for affordable housing efforts in the region.

The coalition's overall purpose is to increase access to affordable, safe and healthy housing in the Cape Fear region, as well as awareness about the issue.

Thursday's breakfast takes place 7:45-10 a.m. in the Wilmington City Council Chambers at City Hall, 102 N. Third St.

Samuel Gunter, director of public policy and advocacy for the N.C. Housing Coalition, and Asheville City Councilman Gordon Smith are guest speakers during the discussion. Gordon "will discuss how his community has worked to develop Housing Incentives, a Housing Trust Fund, and pass a citywide Housing Bond all in support of Affordable Housing," according to a news release from the coalition.

Other topics expected to be covered include what's new in affordable housing, housing finance and housing regulation regionally, statewide and at a federal level; whether Asheville has been able to overcome "NIMBYism" (Not In My Back Yard); and what affordable housing advocates might expect from the leadership of the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). President-elect Donald Trump has tapped Ben Carson, a neurosurgeon and former Republican presidential candidate, as his nominee to run HUD. 

The breakfast will also feature an update on and a review of the Cape Fear Housing Coalition's efforts from Paul D'Angelo, chairman of the coalition.

Those who want to attend the free event, which is open to the public, can RSVP to [email protected] or respond on the group's Facebook event page.