Mennonite Housing seeks Park City support for Lancaster Square senior apartment project

During the City Council meeting on March 11, 2025, significant discussions centered around an economic incentive proposal for Mennonite Housing, aimed at developing affordable housing for seniors in Park City. The organization, which has a long-standing mission of providing affordable housing options in Sedgwick County, is seeking support for its Lancaster Square project, a proposed 50-unit apartment complex designed specifically for residents aged 55 and older.

Mennonite Housing is currently applying for a low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC), a federal initiative that incentivizes developers to create affordable housing by offering tax credits in exchange for reserving units for lower-income households. The proposed Lancaster Square will consist of 21 one-bedroom and 29 two-bedroom apartments, catering to the growing demand for senior housing in the area.

To enhance their application, Mennonite Housing is requesting waivers for building permit fees from the city and the possibility of a low-interest loan, which is crucial for scoring additional points in the LIHTC application process. The loan must exceed $10,000 per unit, totaling over $500,000 for the entire project. This financial support is vital, especially as both the Kansas Senate and House are considering bills that could eliminate the Kansas affordable housing tax credit program by the end of 2025, potentially jeopardizing the project's viability.

Byron Adrian, the former president of Mennonite Housing, presented the proposal to the council, highlighting the organization's extensive experience in developing similar projects in the Wichita area. He emphasized the competitive nature of the LIHTC application process, noting that only a limited number of applications are approved each year in the metro area, making it essential for Lancaster Square to stand out.

The council's support for this initiative could significantly impact the availability of affordable housing for seniors in Park City, addressing a pressing community need. As discussions continue, the outcome of this proposal will be closely watched, given its implications for local housing development and the potential loss of state funding sources.