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Macon commissioners back 80-unit Highlands-Cashiers workforce housing project
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Summary
The Macon County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution May 14 supporting an 80-unit workforce-housing community on Highlands-Cashiers Hospital land, a private $18 million project intended for healthcare and public-safety workers; the sponsors said no county financial contribution is requested.
The Macon County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution of support May 14 for an 80-unit workforce housing community to be sited on a 10-acre parcel donated by HCA Healthcare adjacent to Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.
Breck Kean, vice president of development for Rea Ventures, told commissioners the project would create cottages and townhomes with a community center and serve workers earning roughly $50,000 to $100,000. Kean said the project represents an $18 million private investment and that developers are not asking the county for financial assistance.
Commissioner Shearl moved to adopt the resolution; Commissioner Higdon seconded and the vote was unanimous. The board's action was a formal expression of support rather than a funding commitment.
Why it matters: Highlands and Jackson counties face shortages of affordable housing for health-care and public-safety personnel, which project sponsors and hospital leaders say limits recruitment and operations. Proponents said the housing will help stabilize staffing at Highlands-Cashiers Hospital and related long-term care providers.
What happens next: The resolution endorses the concept and allows project proponents to move forward with site work, outreach and private financing. Kean said private donors and partners have been engaged and the project team had already completed a study and property survey. The presentation packet is on file with the clerk to the board.
Provenance: Topic introduced in the transcript at SEG 003 and last discussed at SEG 003.