KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A new housing project has been proposed in Oshtemo Township, which would normally be an occasion for celebration during this housing crisis, but not everyone is happy with it.
The proposal by Green Development LLC is to build 39 single family homes on vacant property across from the Oshtemo Township Hall on West Main Street.
The developer requested a brownfield tax increment financing plan from the county to reduce costs in exchange, proposed that 8 of the homes be rented at a reduced rate of $2,200 to $2,300 a month.
County commissioner Montez Morales says that’s not good enough.
Housing consultant Joe Agostinelli says that is simply not affordable for a private developer, without additional subsidies.
Morales suggested they look into land trusts and other alternatives for future projects, because the community needs housing for low-income households.
The brownfield plan passed with Morales abstaining and two other commissioners voting no.
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