McCook City Council Discusses Workforce Housing

McCOOK Neb. - During the Jan. 20 McCook City Council meeting, City Manager Nate Schneider provided a detailed update on the proposal for workforce housing at East 11th Street and East C Street. This discussion stemmed from a previous meeting where Amanda Engell of the McCook Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) inquired about the possibility of conveying land to the MEDC for constructing much-needed residential units.

Schneider explained that the city acquired the land through a gift in the early 2000s, with the stipulation that it be used for city purposes. He noted that a 2022 housing study commissioned by the MEDC identified a significant need for housing in McCook, indicating a shortage of approximately 180 residential units across various types, including apartments, single-family homes, and duplexes.

“The MEDC has done a fantastic job spearheading this initiative, along with the council, to move forward with policies that promote the construction of housing,” Schneider stated. He emphasized that while some ongoing projects, such as those in North Point and the reservation area, may not target workforce housing, this new proposal aims to provide affordable options for workers in the community.

To facilitate this project, Schneider mentioned that they had sought the assistance of the City Attorney , Nathaniel Mustion, to analyze local and state regulations regarding property conveyance. A memo has been prepared outlining the requirements for conveying the property to the MEDC specifically for workforce housing purposes. He clarified that while no ordinance is currently before the council, the drafted proposal includes compliance measures to satisfy both state and local regulations, along with a requirement for construction to commence within three years of the property being conveyed; otherwise, the land would revert to the city.

The question of affordability was also addressed during the meeting. Engell remarked that while the goal was to lower costs, current construction prices have led to a projected price point of $200,000 to $225,000 per unit. She added that two contractors have already expressed interest in submitting proposals for the project.

Engell acknowledged the significance of the city's role in facilitating this development. “If the city wasn't able to convey the property, the project probably isn't going to be viable,” she said. “Conveying the property reduces a substantial portion of land costs, which significantly impacts the overall price of the homes and helps keep them more affordable.”

Council members recognized the importance of exploring this proposal further, with Schneider indicating that the item will remain on future agendas as discussions continue.

As McCook seeks to address its housing shortage, the potential development of workforce housing represents a critical step toward providing affordable living options for residents.