Commission narrowly approves intent to issue IRBs for 131-unit Lusso project with 10% workforce set-aside

The City Commission on June 16 voted 3–1 to adopt Resolution No. 7685 expressing the city's intent to issue industrial revenue bonds (IRBs) that would permit a one-time sales-tax exemption for construction materials associated with a proposed 131-unit multifamily development near Wakarusa and Queens Road. Staff described the proposal as a roughly $37,000,000 private investment on a 10-acre greenfield site; the applicant voluntarily committed to reserving about 10% of units at rents tied to 90% of area median income for five years, but staff and commissioners noted the project does not meet the city's affordable-housing provisions for IRB eligibility.

Cassie Innes, president of Metonic Real Estate Solutions, told the commission the applicant prioritized collaboration with neighbors and the HOA and would consider revisions to the affordability terms if directed. Susie (city staff) described likely local fiscal impacts: Lawrence receives 1.6% of local sales tax, staff estimated a theoretical maximum city impact of about $328,000 if all eligible materials were purchased in Lawrence and an illustrative local-procurement scenario at 25% would yield roughly $82,000. During public comment multiple speakers, including Christina McKenna and Tim Hamilton, urged caution about incentivizing market-rate housing during a housing affordability crisis; Tim Hamilton also emphasized local procurement and livable-wage questions. Commissioner Sellers moved the resolution; Commissioner Devel seconded. The motion passed 3–1.