McCook City Council Approves Ordinance to Facilitate Workforce Housing Development
- Anna LaBay
- Mar 4
- 2 min read
McCook, NE – The McCook City Council has approved the first reading of ordinance 2025-3096, a measure designed to streamline the process of conveying city-owned real estate and personal property to qualifying economic development organizations. This action signals a significant step forward in addressing the city's need for diverse housing options, particularly workforce housing.
During the council meeting, City Manager Nate Schneider provided background information, explaining that the ordinance stems from a request by the McCook Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) regarding a city-owned property at the intersection of East 11th Street and East C Street. Schneider highlighted the city's intent to utilize the property for a "wider array of housing options," with a specific focus on workforce housing. He noted that existing ordinances lacked the flexibility needed to convey properties for such purposes, prompting the development of ordinance 2025-3096.
Amanda Engell, Director of Housing Development with the MEDC, further elaborated on the project and its goals. She emphasized that the ordinance is not only for the current project but also for future endeavors that the council deems appropriate. Engell addressed community concerns by clarifying that the proposed housing would target workforce housing, defined by the state as up to 150% of the area median income, distinguishing it from low-income housing projects.
Engell presented a proposal for a two-bedroom, two-bath home, with options for future garage or carport additions. The proposed home will have an unfinished basement for two future additional bedrooms and an additional bathroom. The aim is to offer these homes around the $225,000 price point, enabling purchasers to build equity. This initiative aligns with the roadmap set forth by the housing study conducted a couple of years ago, which identified a need for various housing types, including market-rate single-family homes, multi-family units, and entry-level workforce housing.
The MEDC expressed its appreciation for the city's partnership in addressing the challenges of land availability within city limits and working towards creating more workforce housing opportunities.
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