Commissioners table request to reallocate SAHA funds for Habitat project amid affordability concerns

Lisa Graphentine, Meeker County economic development director, asked the board to approve a modification to a previously authorized SAHA allocation for Habitat for Humanity that would shift $60,000 into home‑buyer gap assistance and change the project from five new homes to four, with the first home completed through an existing developer collaboration.

Kayla, the executive director for the local Habitat affiliate, explained how the organization stacks public programs and silent‑second financing to make higher‑priced homes work for 80% AMI households. “If they do USDA and that buys down the interest rate, there is a missing piece that Habitat helps fill with a silent second,” Kayla said, describing financing mechanics and local contractor partnerships.

Several commissioners objected to using SAHA for new construction at roughly $300,000 per house, arguing that many existing market homes listed below $300,000 would better meet the county’s affordability needs and that state and federal buyer programs already provide layered options. One commissioner, Cheryl, summarized opposition: she said constituents are weary of additional taxpayer funding for subsidized homeownership and questioned whether this represented the best use of SAHA dollars.

After extended discussion, a motion to table the request for further information carried. Commissioners asked staff to return with alternative uses of the SAHA allocation (rehab of existing units or prioritizing owner‑occupied existing homes) and to clarify options for structuring aid to limit county exposure.