Needles City Council approves affordable housing project at 108 Chestnut Street

In a pivotal move to address the housing crisis in Needles, the City Council approved a resolution to allocate $135,000 for the rehabilitation of a property at 108 Chestnut Street. This initiative, led by the Brayboy Family Trust, aims to convert the building into two affordable housing units, a critical step in the city’s ongoing efforts to increase housing availability.

During the meeting, city officials emphasized the importance of this project, noting that it aligns with state incentives aimed at boosting affordable housing development. The council highlighted that families of three earning up to $73,800 and families of four earning up to $82,000 would qualify for these units, which are designed to remain affordable for the next 50 years under a covenant agreement.

City Manager Patrick McCormick explained that the project is part of a broader strategy to utilize state funding effectively, with the goal of demonstrating to the state that Needles can successfully manage housing development. The council expressed optimism that these new units would help alleviate the local housing shortage, which has been exacerbated by rising rental prices.

The Brayboys, who have been part of the Needles community for over a decade, assured the council that the rents for the new units would be set below the maximum allowable rates, making them accessible to local residents. They indicated that their intention is to keep rents reasonable, with estimates suggesting monthly charges between $900 and $1,100.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion about the implications of the project, with some expressing concerns about the potential for rising rents in the area. However, city officials reassured them that the affordability covenants would ensure that the units remain within reach for low- to moderate-income families.

As the council moves forward with this project, they are also looking ahead to additional housing initiatives, including a proposal for 29 more units slated for rehabilitation in the coming weeks. This proactive approach reflects the city’s commitment to tackling housing challenges and fostering a sustainable community for its residents.