Pecos plans affordable housing and home repair grants to assist low-income residents

The February 27, 2025, Regular City Council Meeting for Pecos City, Texas, focused on several key initiatives aimed at improving community housing and infrastructure. The meeting began with discussions on a grant program designed to assist low-income residents with home repairs. This initiative particularly targets elderly individuals on fixed incomes, allowing them to apply for funds to address critical repairs in their homes. A recent case highlighted involved a 99-year-old woman who received assistance to improve accessibility in her home.

The council also discussed plans for new apartment developments in Pecos. City officials, including Mr. Salcedo, are in talks with a prominent multifamily developer from Dallas specializing in workforce housing. They aim to identify a suitable site for construction within the next few months, with hopes of starting the project in the coming years.

Communication about these housing initiatives was a significant topic. Officials emphasized the importance of reaching out to the community, particularly those who qualify for assistance. A standardized application process is in place, and plans for a new website to facilitate applications are underway. The council is also exploring partnerships with local organizations to enhance community involvement in housing projects.

Funding for these housing initiatives primarily comes from private developers, with the city’s Housing Finance Corporation playing a regulatory role to ensure affordability. The council clarified that while they do not directly fund these projects, they facilitate partnerships that help maintain affordable housing standards.

In addition to housing discussions, the meeting included updates on water infrastructure improvements. Roxanna Bagwell from Maguire provided an overview of ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation efforts for water tanks in Pecos. Recent upgrades have included new flooring and painting, which are expected to enhance water quality. The council is also considering branding options for the tanks, with discussions about incorporating local school colors.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to addressing housing needs and improving infrastructure, with a focus on community engagement and collaboration with private developers. The council plans to continue these discussions in future meetings, aiming to implement these initiatives effectively for the benefit of Pecos residents.