Lawrence County Considers 15 Year Tax Abatement for Nindale Lofts Affordable Housing Project

Affordable housing took center stage at the Douglas County Board of Commissioners meeting on July 16, 2025, as officials discussed a significant 15-year, 95% tax abatement for the Nindale Lofts 2 project. Located at 716 East Ninth Street in Lawrence, Kansas, this initiative aims to provide 24 affordable one-bedroom units, alongside 12 market-rate units and six live-work spaces.

Brandon Maguire, assistant city manager, presented the project, highlighting its importance in addressing the community's pressing housing needs. The Nindale Lofts 2 follows the successful Nindale Lofts, which has already contributed to the area's affordable housing stock. Developer Tony Kresnick, known for his effective use of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, is seeking a 9% LIHTC benefit for this project. This round of funding is particularly crucial, as recent state legislation has limited future access to these tax credits.

Maguire emphasized that the project aligns with the community's strategic plan to combat chronic homelessness and increase affordable housing options. The city has set an ambitious goal of creating 1,500 affordable rental units by 2028, and every project, including Nindale Lofts 2, is a step toward achieving that target.

The city commission has already shown support by adopting a resolution of intent to issue Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs) for the project, which will facilitate sales tax exemptions on construction materials. As discussions continue, the county's participation in the neighborhood revitalization area plan is seen as a vital move to enhance the local housing landscape.