Abilene Commission Backs Donating 10 Golden Belt Heights West Lots for Workforce Housing Grant Bid

The Abilene City Commission on October 12 authorized the mayor to sign a letter of support saying the city would donate 10 lots in Golden Belt Heights West for a housing project, contingent on the project receiving a state MIH housing grant and approval of a development agreement.

Natalie Muruato of Driving Dickinson County asked the city to donate the lots to make the homes more affordable for buyers. She said the grant application is due October 23 and that city support is one of the scoring criteria. She also asked the city to rebate one year of RHID proceeds to homeowners to help with moving and utility startup costs.

Community Development Director Carrie Zook said Ross, the developer with Heartland Housing Partners, who would normally receive $5,000 per lot sold under his agreement with the city, is willing to forgo that payment on the 10 lots. The city attorney said that payment cannot exceed two-thirds of gross sale proceeds, so a donation would produce no payment, and said the attorney's office would work with Zook on a recommendation.

Commissioners held off on the RHID rebate while the city attorney reviews whether those funds can be used that way. Staff said RHID proceeds the city receives go toward more than $2 million in debt. A commissioner said he was open to holding a special meeting on other possible incentives. The motion carried.