KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Kalamazoo County is nearly ready to begin handing out some of the millions they have from their new housing millage, as affordable homes are becoming harder to find. Many saying what was a problem before the pandemic has now gotten even worse.
Housing director Mary Balkema says eight developers applied for the $3-million they plan to spend on new construction this year, and Commissioners have picked five projects for funding.
“If you approve funding for the five that you’ve scored, you’ll leverage up another $90-million dollars,” said Balkema at a Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, March 1.
The projects range from one that will create 344 units in Pavilion Township to one that will help build 9 units on the north side. Balkema says the money will go a long way in getting the job done.
“Many of these projects are multi-layer financing deals and our money will get them to the finish line,” said Balkema.
The County Board will sign off on the grants in two weeks. The housing tax will generate 7-million this year, and 7-million more each year for the next 7 years.
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