Low-Income Housing Increases

COLUMBIA, MO - In a time when the number of foreclosures is up one organization is increasing low-income housing across the state. The Missouri Housing Development Commission met in Columbia Wednesday for the next step in its selection process. Each year developers apply for funding from MHDC to build or rehabilitate facilities to use as low-income housing. This summer, the program got additional funding after Congress passed the housing stimulus package. Directors say the program's funds increased from $11.7 million to $14 million.

Still, the extra funds are not enough to fund the 108 proposals MHDC has already received. Directors say they're only able to select about 30. Officials say that while the housing market is tough and foreclosures are common, the need for low income housing is incredibly high.

Community members and officials came to the public hearing Wednesday to express their need for low-income housing. "Most of the time it's very positive and it's positive comments, mayors, city aldermen, councilmen encouraging us, sometimes begging us. They have a tremendous need for affordable housing whether it's serving elderly, low-income or providing workforce housing," said MHDC Executive Director Pete Ramsel.

There were two Columbia locations proposed at the meeting: one near the corner of Bethel and Nifong for elderly housing and the other at Route B and Oakland Church Road for single family homes. The funds will be available in December.