Area residents in need of affordable housing now have one more option, located in Kachemak City.
East End Cottages, an affordable housing complex, is nearing completion, with some units currently ready to rent. The property at Crested Crane Road, off East End Road, caused a stir at the Homer City Council level when developers approached the city about being given access to city water in that location, which is outside city limits.
The council ultimately voted to allow city water to be extended to the property, though it did not conform to city code at the time that said city water could only be connected to properties in city limits. The action prompted a review of city policy with regard to extending city water service outside city limits. An ordinance to amend the city’s current policy was brought forward, but the council ultimately voted that down, and the policy remains the same.
East End Cottages is a mixed Low Income Housing Tax Credits project, in which some of the 24 units are subject to the LIHTC program that stipulates they must be rented at certain reduced rates. The LIHTC provides funding for development costs of building an affordable housing complex.
Because East End Cottages is a mix of LIHTC units and regular units, the rent varies from $917 for a two-bedroom apartment to $1,290 for a three bedroom apartment. Anyone can apply, but Site Manager Dana Jaworski said the housing project is focusing on those with lower income to fill certain apartments. LIHTC units will only be rented to those who make no more than 60% of the median income in the area.
Jaworski said the project helps to fill a great need for affordable housing in the area.
The units themselves are triplex style buildings, she wrote in an email. The complex includes units with accessibility options for those with trouble getting around. The complex is also pet friendly. Applicants with rental vouchers are being accepted as well.
Some of the units have already rented, and Jaworski said there has been a lot of interest in them so far. To apply or for more information, those interested can reach her at 907-435-7266 or at the Harbor Ridge office at 4047 Main Street.
Reach Megan Pacer at mpacer@homernews.com.
