By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
Two new potential housing proposals will be reviewed by Hays city commissioners during their work session Thursday.
Epworth Village Inc. is asking for a 15-month exclusive option for the city-owned property at 26th and Main, south of Astra Bank. The option would allow Epworth to raise money for a high-density housing project on the 2.1 acres.
If Epworth is successful in raising funds and city commissioners approve the project layout/design, the city would donate the land for the project, according to staff information provided to the commission.
The latest housing needs assessment for Hays lists housing for low-income residents as the city’s highest need.
Moderate income housing
PWC Management, Hays, purchased a tract of property north of Felten Elementary School where it plans to build residential housing.
As part of the process, PWC is applying for a $600,000 Moderate Income Housing grant, and that requires a resolution of support from the city.
The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation administers the Moderate Income Housing program, which is designed to serve the needs of households that don’t typically qualify for federal housing assistance.
The grant would provide down payment assistance for 20 of the proposed 30 single-family residences to be built. PWC also plans to apply for a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District and Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credits, which would be considered at future city commission meetings.
Economic Development Policy draft
City commissioners discussed an updated draft of the city’s Economic Development Policy at the Sep. 3 work session. The policy was was last reviewed in 2024, with changes being made last in 2021.
The commission will again discuss the proposed changes, most of which are not substantial, Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, said.
The complete Oct. 1, 2026 agenda is available here.
The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main, Hays.