SPOKANE VALLEY – A motion to bring more affordable housing options to Spokane Valley was voted through unanimously during the Aug. 22 city council meeting.
Accountant and Budget Analyst Sarah Farr explained to council the requested action, touching on previous talks surrounding the project.
On May 16, 2023, council approved an allocation of $471,728 to Habitat for Humanity for land acquisition for the future development of affordable housing units to expand the Homeownership Program in the City of Spokane Valley.
According to the agreement the group will acquire 2 to 4 properties within Spokane Valley.
This could add approximately $16 million to the budget for eligible expenses.
This award will reduce the city’s available general funds provided through the revenue replacement process of the American Rescue Plan by $471,728.
The funds will be used to develop four to six housing units that are affordable to households with incomes at or below 80 percent of area median income.
Habitat will focus their efforts on building high-quality, affordable homes, maximizing each lot to build multiple units.
According to Farr they will build the maximum number of homes they can on each lot.
Homebuyers must complete the homeownership program and closing procedures to qualify for Habitat’s program.
The Grant Agreement outlines the project scope, property and affordability requirements, and the timeline for the purchases and occupancy of the home units.
The agreement also provides performance metrics including recorded statutory warranty deeds, demographics on the homebuyer.
The term of this agreement ensures that the city grant funding will continue to be used to serve the community over the life of the units.
Councilwoman Laura Padden applauded the group for their efforts in Spokane Valley
“I’m thrilled to have Habitat in the Valley,” Padden said. “It’s a great organization with a great reputation, and I think you guys will do a great job.”
Councilman Arne Woodard said he would like to see the terminology in the report changed to workforce housing, because that is what Habitat is known for.
Councilman Ben Wick said he is also supportive of the group but wants to make sure the city doesn’t restrict them too much in the ongoing project.
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