But I still believe we have a huge supply and demand issue and the government needs to do something to spur new construction.

Trying to protect their cash from inflation or government appropriation. 

I imagine it is all just on for now especially since all government backed loan defaults are a full stop too. 

Given the bureacracy and corruption of the city government, I recommend hiring an experienced tax attorney to fight any assessment.

As a local government executive I was sued twice (in my capacity as city manager), have been sued once by an insurance company (abrogation effort) and once by a private individual (stepdaughter in car accident in my vehicle).

Looking for advice on renting to an individual on a rental assistance program through the government.

.- Public Records and Local Government Websites: Check your town or county’s property tax assessor or planning department websites.

I thought about taking cash but was unwilling to give the government 850K.   

Immigration plays a big role in this, so it would be hard to predict unless you know what happens with population growth.I think it's still a basic human need, and one that the government can not provide at a reasonable cost.

Then there's sober living companies that get some government funding and require counseling, meetings, etc.