Pitkin County Increases Grant Agreement to $3.25M for Mobile Home Park Purchase

In a pivotal meeting on August 27, 2025, the Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) took significant steps to address funding challenges for the purchase of mobile home parks in the region. The board discussed a proposed increase in their grant commitment to the West Mountain Regional Housing Coalition, raising the amount from $3 million to $3.25 million. This decision comes amid uncertainty regarding state funding, which is crucial for the project’s success.

The board highlighted that an additional $2 million needs to be secured to meet the financing requirements set by lenders. Currently, $14 million has been raised, but to proceed with the purchase, a total of $20 million is necessary. The urgency of the situation was underscored by concerns that without this funding, rents for residents could rise significantly, from approximately $1,000 to $1,600 per month.

Commissioners debated the implications of tying the grant to state funding, with some advocating for a more straightforward approach that would allow the county to provide the necessary funds regardless of state contributions. The discussion revealed frustrations with the state’s legislative processes, which have not aligned well with local housing needs.

The board ultimately agreed to amend the grant agreement to reflect the increased commitment, emphasizing the importance of securing the funds quickly to stabilize housing costs for residents. The anticipated state contribution remains uncertain, with projections suggesting it may fall short of the original $5 million expectation.

As the meeting concluded, the BOCC expressed a commitment to continue advocating for better alignment between state funding mechanisms and local housing initiatives, aiming to ensure that residents are not burdened by rising costs during this transitional period. The next steps will involve formalizing the grant agreement and continuing discussions with other funding partners to meet the financial goals necessary for the mobile home park purchases.