Skagit Housing Council proposes new senior living project in Mount Vernon

The Skagit County government meeting held on May 30, 2025, focused on key developments in housing projects and zoning regulations. The session began with discussions on a proposed residential project that would increase the number of floors from three to four. The project currently adheres to a height restriction of 50 feet, which limits the number of units that can be constructed. The developers noted that while four floors fit within the existing regulations, a variance could be requested to allow for a fifth floor, which would require an increase in height to 60 feet.

The financial implications of this change were also addressed. Initially, the cost per apartment unit was estimated at $488,000 for a three-floor design. However, by adding a fourth floor, the cost per unit decreased to $370,000, making the project more financially viable. The proposed units would include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, catering to a range of potential residents.

Following this discussion, Quentin Sutter from the Skagit Housing Council presented on the Mount Vernon Manor Annex. He highlighted the council's long-standing commitment to providing low-income housing for seniors aged 55 and older. The council has successfully developed several facilities since its inception in 1981, with the most recent project completed in 2014. Despite these efforts, Sutter emphasized the ongoing shortage of affordable housing for seniors in the area.

In 2022, the council began exploring the feasibility of acquiring additional property adjacent to their existing facilities to expand their offerings. This initiative aims to address the persistent demand for senior housing in Mount Vernon.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the critical need for affordable housing solutions in Skagit County, particularly for vulnerable populations such as seniors. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing development with regulatory compliance to meet community needs effectively. Further steps will be taken to assess the feasibility of the proposed projects and potential zoning adjustments.