Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council hears housing progress, approves MOU for Ella Sharp Park improvements
Summary
City staff reported progress on the '100 homes' program, rehab projects and LIHTC developments; council approved an MOU with Movement Jackson LLC to advance skate-park, pump-track and gathering-space improvements at Ella Sharp Park and authorized sale of a city lot to Agricon LLC.
City staff delivered a broad housing update and council approved several related items during the Jan. 27 meeting.
Community development staff summarized progress on the "100 homes" program: the city received 1,885 applications for the program over two years, has formally approved 81 buyers, closed 32 homes and has 18 additional units under construction. "We are halfway there," said Corey LaPorte, who described partnerships with local builders (Allen Edwin/Edwyn, VMG Construction) and use of CDBG and ARPA funds to support down-payment assistance and rehabilitation.
Staff highlighted two LIHTC (Low Income Housing Tax Credit) projects that opened last fall — Greenwood (51 units) and Blackstone (52 units) — and described four MISH/MSHDA homes for families with disabilities that will be handed over to buyers in the coming weeks. LaPorte said staff will propose additional layered down-payment assistance to address a growing affordability gap and expected the council to consider that proposal in early February.
On parks, council approved a memorandum of understanding with Movement Jackson LLC to fund and construct phased improvements at Ella Sharp Park (skate plaza, pump track, bouldering and public gathering areas). Staff said the city will provide parking upgrades, lighting and restrooms access in early phases; the MOU does not require an immediate city cash investment.
Council also approved sale of city-owned property at 751 Thomason St. to Agricon LLC for $300 and authorized the purchase and development agreement.
