CRA approves 30-day notice to solicit affordable-housing proposals for 519 La Kirksey

The Community Redevelopment Agency on April 14 approved Resolution 25-13 to publish a 30-day notice of intent to dispose of agency-owned property at 519 La Kirksey and solicit proposals for the development of affordable housing.

Kelsey King, CRA project manager, told the board the lot was purchased by the agency in February 2006, is about 0.14 acres (just over 6,000 square feet) and is vacant. King said the parcel is zoned MF-14 (multifamily low density) and sits between Spruce Avenue to the east and the Florida East Coast railroad tracks to the west. The agency will publish the notice in the Palm Beach Post and on the CRA website, accept proposals for 30 days and then return to the board with submissions for consideration.

Under terms described by King and cited in the staff report, the agency is seeking proposals that prioritize affordable homeownership, emphasize high-quality and sustainable construction and demonstrate strategies to support local economic growth. King said the agency is aiming for homebuyer price points in the 60%–100% area median income range for purchasers. She said construction costs were estimated around $400,000 and that land donation and subsidies could reduce a purchase price to roughly $300,000.

Commissioner Warren asked whether the agency had identified developers; staff replied that the notice was prompted by an unsolicited proposal but that no partner had been selected and that proposals will be solicited openly. The board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.

Action: Resolution 25-13 authorizes publication of the 30-day notice of intent to dispose for 519 La Kirksey and solicitation of proposals for affordable housing.