KPHI seeks land donation from Kenai for affordable housing development

The Council on Aging meeting held on April 10, 2025, in Kenai, Alaska, focused on significant developments in housing initiatives aimed at supporting low-income residents and senior citizens in the Kenai Peninsula area. The meeting commenced with updates from the Kinetic Peninsula Housing Initiative (KPHI), which is a nonprofit housing developer dedicated to creating affordable housing options.

During the meeting, representatives from KPHI presented their ongoing projects and future plans. They highlighted their mission to provide low-income and special needs residents with opportunities for active community engagement through affordable housing. Currently, KPHI manages 31 residential properties across the peninsula, with 55 housing units already occupied. They are in the development stage of four additional properties that will add 26 more units.

A key agenda item was the request for additional land donations from the City of Kenai. KPHI representatives emphasized the importance of these donations for their development plans. They are seeking a donation of approximately 5.09 acres from a larger tract of land owned by the city, which would allow them to expand their housing offerings significantly. This expansion could potentially increase the total number of senior and low-income housing units to 54 on the 10-acre parcel.

The urgency of the request was underscored by the potential for new funding sources, including a Federal Home Loan Bank grant, which KPHI aims to apply for. The representatives stressed that prompt action from the city council is crucial to secure this funding and expedite the development process.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from the council members, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing the housing needs of the community. The discussions highlighted the ongoing commitment of KPHI and the city to enhance the quality of life for residents through strategic housing initiatives.