In a significant move to address housing needs and stimulate economic growth, the Emporia City Commission has approved three substantial housing development initiatives.
These projects encompass the rehabilitation of existing homes and the construction of new residential units, reflecting the city’s commitment to enhancing living standards and expanding housing availability.
1. Federal Home Loan Bank Grant for Home Rehabilitation
The commission has accepted a $450,000 grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka’s Affordable Housing Program (AHP).
This funding is allocated for the rehabilitation and repair of 30 owner-occupied homes in the Emporia area. The distribution of funds is structured to assist homeowners across different income levels:
- 18 homes: Allocated for households earning less than the Area Median Income (AMI).
- 12 homes: Designated for households with incomes at or below 60% of the AMI.
The primary objective of this grant is to improve living conditions and alleviate financial burdens associated with home repairs. Jeffrey Lynch, the Community Development Coordinator for Emporia, emphasized the program’s role in enhancing household conditions and providing financial relief, especially for families affected by economic challenges.
Application Process
Interested homeowners can apply by contacting Jeffrey Lynch via email at jlynch@emporiaks.gov or by phone at 620-343-4285. Applicants will be evaluated based on income, and eligibility requires that the deed of the home is in the applicant’s name. It’s important to note that mobile homes and RVs are not eligible for this program.
The initial application deadline is February 14. Applications received by this date will be prioritized, with a focus on assisting those with the lowest incomes first. The AHP recommends an average expenditure of $15,000 per household project, with flexibility regarding the types of projects funded, excluding structures like outhouses, yard improvements, sidewalks, and patios.
According to program regulations, the project must commence by December 20, 2025, and conclude by December 20, 2028.
2. Establishment of Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) for 502 Lofts
The commission has approved the creation of a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) to facilitate the financing of an apartment complex development at 502 Commercial Street. A development agreement with 502 Lofts has also been adopted, outlining the project’s timeline:
- Second Story Completion: By October 1.
- First Story Completion: By January of the following year.
- Garden Level Completion: By March of the subsequent year.
Notably, this development does not require direct funding from the City of Emporia. The RHID mechanism will offset potential increases in property taxes over the next 25 years, making the project financially viable without imposing additional tax burdens.
3. Issuance of Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds for Residential Duplexes
To support the construction of 16 residential duplexes (totaling 32 apartment units), the commission has approved the issuance of Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds to Capital Holdings, LLC. The bonds are structured as follows:
- Series A, 2025 Bonds: Amounting to $2,600,000.
- Series B, 2025 Bonds: Totaling $1,400,000.
These bonds are not general obligation bonds and, therefore, do not count as debt against the City of Emporia. This financing approach enables the development of new housing units without impacting the city’s debt capacity.
Additional Developments: Fire Station Upgrades
Beyond housing, the commission is also focusing on public safety infrastructure. During the Public Building Commission meeting, updates were provided on the construction of Fire Station One and planned upgrades for Fire Station Two.
Evan Malloy, Project Manager for Fire Station One, reported that the building pad is complete, with foundation work commencing shortly. The project remains on schedule, with an anticipated completion date in January 2026.
For Fire Station Two, early-stage development plans include two options: renovating the interior and adding apparatus space or demolishing the existing living quarters to construct new accommodations.
The Public Building Commission has approved the intent to issue $18,111,000 in Public Building Revenue Bonds. Deputy City Manager Mark Detter clarified that this motion sets an estimated maximum price, with the final bond amount expected to be between $11 million and $11.5 million, to be determined in the coming weeks.
The Emporia City Commission’s approval of these housing development projects underscores a strategic commitment to enhancing the city’s housing landscape and supporting community growth.
Through a combination of home rehabilitation grants, incentivized new developments, and strategic financing, Emporia is poised to meet the evolving needs of its residents while fostering economic development.
