Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Habitat Homeownership topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee recommends sale of four lots to Habitat for Humanity for owner-occupied homes
Summary
The committee voted to forward a mayoral resolution to council recommending transfer of four city-owned lots to Habitat for Humanity of North Central Connecticut for construction of four owner-occupied houses aimed at lower-income buyers; Habitat said many prior homeowners remain long-term residents.
The Planning, Economic Development & Housing Committee voted Oct. 1 to send to the full City Council a resolution recommending transfer of four city-owned lots to Habitat for Humanity of North Central Connecticut to build four owner-occupied houses.
Assistant Director William Diaz presented the proposal and introduced Chris McKelvey, who identified himself as CEO of Habitat for Humanity (North Central Connecticut). “We’ve built over 200 homes throughout the city of Hartford,” McKelvey said, adding that many past Habitat homeowners have remained in their homes for decades and that Habitat maintains a right of first refusal to preserve affordability when a homeowner sells.
Diaz told the committee the proposed houses would be roughly 1,400 square feet, two stories with four bedrooms and two baths, front porches and two-car driveways. Diaz said the estimated sale price for each completed house would be approximately $311,900 and that construction for these parcels would follow timelines similar to other recent Habitat projects, with completion expected in 2027.
McKelvey described Habitat’s selection and homeowner preparation process: candidates complete 100 hours of “sweat equity,” financial literacy courses and CHFA first-time homebuyer training; many Habitat buyers have incomes between 40% and 80% AMI, the CEO said. He also noted Habitat previously used HOME funds to extend eligibility up to 120% AMI on some developments and that the organization will market the homes and begin vetting owners after transfer is finalized.
Committee members asked about long-term retention and resale protections; McKelvey said Habitat holds repurchase rights and reported high retention among past buyers, including mortgage-burning celebrations and multi-decade occupancy in some families.
The committee voted to forward the mayoral resolution to council with a favorable recommendation. Members again noted there were no public speakers at the Sept. 15 hearing on the transfer.
