Ketchikan Assembly approves $305K for Yi Kai Kuan supportive housing project

The Ketchikan Gateway Borough Assembly convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a significant focus on a memorandum of agreement with the Ketchikan Indian Community (KIC) regarding the Yi Kai Kuan permanent supportive housing project.

The assembly began discussions on Item 9a, which proposed a contribution of $305,000 towards the Yi Kai Kuan project, aimed at providing 28 units of affordable housing for low-income residents. Assembly member Miss Hartson initiated the motion to direct staff to enter into the agreement, which was seconded by Miss Bowling.

During the discussion, assembly members emphasized the importance of this initiative, clarifying that it is not a request for funding a new homeless shelter. Instead, the project is designed to address the root causes of homelessness by offering permanent housing solutions. Assembly member Miss Arntzen highlighted that the project would allow residents to pay monthly rent and stay indefinitely, fostering housing stability and the opportunity for individuals to improve their lives.

Miss Arntzen also noted that this funding request is a one-time contribution and will not lead to future financial requests from KIC, reinforcing the assembly's commitment to supporting sustainable housing solutions. Additionally, she pointed out the project's relevance to elder housing, acknowledging the aging population in Ketchikan and the need for options that allow residents to age in place.

The assembly's discussions underscored a collective support for the project, recognizing its potential to enhance the community's housing landscape and assist residents in achieving self-sufficiency. The assembly's decision on this memorandum of agreement is expected to contribute positively to the ongoing efforts to address housing needs in Ketchikan.