Douglas County approves $3.1 million in support for Tall Tales Ranch housing for people with developmental disabilities

Douglas County commissioners approved funding packages totaling $3.1 million to support Tall Tales Ranch's plan to build 28 affordable, deed-restricted housing units for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Lone Tree.

The board approved a $2,000,000 ARPA beneficiary agreement and separately approved a $1,100,000 subgrantee agreement that formalizes a state Strong Communities grant the county secured to support infrastructure work. Rand Clark, representing staff, said the Strong Communities award covers infrastructure elements such as utility tap fees, streetscaping and pedestrian improvements and that Tall Tales will serve tenants earning less than 60% of area median income (a single-person annual income under $54,780 as described in the presentation).

Laura McKenna, Tall Tales executive director, described the project as a long-term effort to provide independent living with on-site supportive services and quoted program ambassadors about what the community means to them. McKenna said Tall Tales plans construction to begin in 2025 and confirmed the organization will provide the required 15% match ($196,000) for the state grant.

Commissioners praised the project as an important, long-awaited resource for residents and families that care for people with IDD. Both agreements passed by voice vote; the county will distribute state grant funds to Tall Tales under a subgrantee agreement and issue the ARPA beneficiary payment under county ARPA procedures.