KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Just over two years into an effort to end Kalamazoo County’s housing crisis, officials say it’s making an impact.
Housing director Mary Balkema gave her annual progress report to commissioners this week on how they are managing the county’s one-of-a-kind affordable housing millage.
She says so far they have helped get around 611 units built or under construction.
Balkema says according to a housing study they had done by the Upjohn Institute, the area will eventually need ten times that number to meet the demand for homes. The study found a need for 77-hundred new units to meet the demand.
Last night she presented some of the people who have benefited from the effort through down-payment, repair and other assistance.
The residents who have taken advantage of the programs say it’s made all the difference.
The Upjohn Institute study was done in 2021, and county board vice chair John Taylor wondered if it was still accurate.
Taylor may be correct as many things, including the pandemic, have altered real estate markets. Even Tuesday’s tornado may have had an impact locally.
Balkema agreed, saying she has been trying to gather more comprehensive data. She says having the study updated could be put into their next budget.
A couple of commissioners asked for specific data on how residents of different income levels are being subsidized by different projects, to help make more cost effective decisions. Here is commissioner Jen Strebs.
The board plans discussions this fall on ways to help more low-income earners.
A copy of the annual report is available at the county’s website.
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