Redevelopment Authority approves transfer of two lots to Habitat; receives updates on Home Kenosha, Uptown plan and finances

The Redevelopment Authority of the City of Kenosha on April 22 approved a development agreement to transfer two city-owned parcels at 4609 and 4615 30th Sixth Avenue to Habitat for Humanity of Kenosha and received progress reports on the Home Kenosha program, the Uptown 4 redevelopment plan and the authority's financial statements.

The transfer to Habitat for Humanity was approved following a public hearing and staff presentation. Staff said the development agreement requires the lots be transferred by July 1, 2025, construction to begin by Nov. 1, 2025, substantial completion by June 30, 2026, and transfer of each completed home to a home buyer by Aug. 31, 2026. The lots are to be conveyed for $1. A staff summary of the project budget and funding sources, prepared by Mike Mackey, was included in the meeting packet.

Why it matters: the transfers and the Home Kenosha program are intended to convert vacant city lots into owner-occupied housing in neighborhoods identified for reinvestment, including the Wilson neighborhood, where several new builds are planned.

Staff said Habitat for Humanity submitted the required materials, including a secured home buyer and project budget, and provided house plans showing roughly 1,200 square feet, three bedrooms and detached garages. Habitat's executive director, Angela Elliott, told the authority she was "here to answer any questions that you may have about the agenda item." A prospective homebuyer, Allison Babbiano, identified herself as "a future homeowner…