In a recent meeting of the Atchison County Commission, Justin Prejean from Pomeroy Development presented a request for sponsorship of a moderate income housing grant aimed at revitalizing vacant spaces in the historic YMCA building, now known as the 19 13 apartments. This initiative seeks to address the growing demand for affordable housing in the area, as evidenced by the high occupancy rates of existing units.

Prejean highlighted the success of the previous $400,000 grant that facilitated the transformation of the YMCA into 17 apartments, which has now reached an occupancy rate of over 98%. He emphasized the need for additional funding to convert the building's vacant gym and locker room areas into three new one-bedroom apartments, with expected rents around $900 per month. The project aims to utilize state historic tax credits and a rooms grant from the Department of Commerce, alongside the requested $150,000 moderate income housing grant.

The discussion also touched on the changing landscape of funding for such projects, with Prejean noting that this could be one of the last opportunities for moderate income housing grants due to tightening budgets and a lack of new funding from the state legislature. He clarified that the Kansas Housing Resource Corporation now requires local government sponsorship for the grant, which would serve as a conduit for the funds rather than a financial backer.

Commissioners expressed their support for the initiative, with discussions around the procedural aspects of the resolution needed for the grant application. They acknowledged the potential for increased property values and future tax receipts resulting from the development, which aligns with broader community goals of revitalization and economic growth.

As the commission deliberates on the resolution, the outcome of this request could significantly impact Atchison's housing landscape, providing much-needed affordable options while enhancing the value of existing properties. The commission is expected to vote on the proposal in the coming weeks, marking a critical step in advancing this housing initiative.