Homes First seeks nearly $50,000 from Lacey to replace roof at fourplex housing eight low‑income residents

Homes First told Lacey human‑services commissioners that a 1977 fourplex at 1702 Magnolia Street SE requires roof replacement to protect eight low‑income residents and preserve long‑term affordable housing.

Chris Bean, the development manager for Homes First, said the roof is original to the building, has reached the end of its useful life and places residents — many below 30% area‑median income — at risk of displacement if not repaired. Homes First characterized the request as a capital‑only ask to replace the roof; the agency cited a contractor estimate from Doyle Construction and listed an approximate city request of $49,571, with about $2,300 reserved for administration and reporting costs.

Bean said the fourplex provides permanent, income‑restricted housing to households including seniors and people in recovery. He told commissioners that if the city funded less than the full amount Homes First would continue fundraising (including proceeds from its annual Heroes for Housing breakfast) and pursue other grants to complete the work; the agency also said siding and repainting are being pursued through other funding sources.

Commissioners asked about the expected resident tenure and contingency plans if only partial city funding is awarded; Homes First emphasized a long‑term mission of permanent housing and described ongoing fundraising plans and partner contributions (donated supplies and labor) that could reduce the remaining gap. The agency said the project is scoped and costed and ready to proceed upon funding.