Housing development
moves forward
Staff writer
Work is expected to begin late this year on 12 duplexes to be built south of Dollar General in Hillsboro using money from a Kansas Housing Resources Corporation tax credit award.
The housing corporation awarded $2 million in tax credits toward the $9.2 million project.
“We were approached by the city about the need they have for housing at Hillsboro,” Mennonite Housing president and chief executive Byron Adrian said. “We researched the need, and Mennonite Housing was very pleased to help meet that need. We’ve been doing these types of developments for 30 years.”
Another financial boost is being considered by Hillsboro City Council.
City administrator Matt Stiles said the city was considering designating the area as a rural housing improvement district. That would waive payment of property taxes for 10 years.
In addition to the 12 duplex buildings, the development, called Orchard Ridge, is to include an office and maintenance garage.
The duplexes are to be two-and three-bedroom units, each with a garage. All appliances are to be included.
The development is to include a covered patio, a playground, and a basketball court.
Hillsboro City Council members have been working with Mennonite Housing on the project since February.
Orchard Ridge is intended for renters with annual household income of less than 80% of the area median. Rent for some units will be tied to income.
The development will be for people of all ages whose income qualifies.
Income limits will be $44,240 for one person; $50,560 for two people; $56,880 for three people; and $63,200 for four people.
Mennonite Housing Rehabilitation Services, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Wichita, has built houses and apartment complexes, as well as rehabilitated existing houses, for more than 40 years.