By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
Two more developers are hoping to build affordable housing in Hays.
Zimmerman Properties, LLC, of Missouri, is asking the city to provide for an issuance of industrial revenue bonds (IRBs). The specific request is for a sales tax exemption for construction of the $9.4 million project.
The developer also plans to request Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTCs) from the state. If the tax credits are not awarded, the project is not expected to move forward, said Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager.
The Willow Grove project would be built at 400 W. 48th Street, just east of Carrico Implement.
The multi-family residential complex is anticipated to include three buildings, each with three stories, along with a separate clubhouse facility.
A total of 48 units would be split between two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments.
Hoping to help fill the low-income housing gap in Hays is Old Town Development, Inc., Missouri, which has also asked for an issuance of IRBs through the city for a sales tax exemption.
An IRB issuance does not count against the city’s debt limit or affect its debt rating and does not require taxpayer commitment.
Wheatland Commons would be built east of the intersection of 22nd Street and Cumberland Drive and consist of 36 two-bedroom and three-bedroom units. The area is east of Bright Minds Academy.
The second developer also plans to request Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from the state. If not awarded, the $12.5 million project would likely not advance.
Design contract
Jess Rohr, public works director, will present a proposed $94,400 engineering services contract with Driggs Design Group, PA, Hays, for major reconstruction of portions of 22nd Street, General Hays Road and Oak Street.
The work would be done in 2027 and 2028.
The complete May 7 agenda is available here.
The work session begins at 4 p.m. Thursday in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.