Village approves plan for housing grant

The Village of Ewing approved guidelines, for a potential two-unit duplex, during its April 11 meeting at the village hall.

Judy Petersen, executive director of the Central Nebraska Economic Development District, reviewed guidelines with trustees.

The village will request $427,140 in grant funds, with a $100,000 match from the village.If received, the grant will be structured on a five-year, affordability basis.

"After the grant is closed, and it's rented, there will be a five-yer period the rent will be affordable and income guidelines need to be met," Petersen said.

Once the time period passes, rental fees may be adjusted.

According to Petersen, rental fees for a unit will be "tied to the community" and, based on the housing study and census data, will run $550 per month.

Now, Petersen will calculate development and operating costs.

Income qualifications will be in place. For example, for a one-person household, the maximum income threshold is $62,180.

Trustee Dustin Wright asked how insurance is calculated per unit. Petersen estimated insurance costs at $1,800 annual, with $3,600 targeted for taxes.

She also suggested having $300 per unit set aside for capital improvements.

To apply for grant funds, the village must establish guidelines on eligibility for renting, location, selection policy, Fair Housing rules, grievance procedures and application process.

According to Petersen, a site survey took place the first week of April.

The housing grant will not be announced until fall 2022, with funds dispersed in winter or spring 2023.

Wright made a motion to approve program guidelines, seconded by Kane Fry. It was approved unanimously.

Wright also made a motion to approve $100,000 in matching funds, which passed 6-0.