In an effort to address the pressing need for affordable housing in Wichita, Kansas, the city council is set to vote on a proposal that could significantly impact the development of low-income housing projects.

The proposed incentive aims to assist developers in securing funding to either construct new affordable housing units or renovate existing ones. By waiving certain fees such as building, water, and sewer connection fees, the city hopes to incentivize developers to undertake projects that cater to low-income residents.

According to Wichita Assistant City Manager Troy Anderson, these fee waivers could make a crucial difference for developers seeking federal and state funding through the low-income housing tax credit program. By bolstering their applications, developers stand a better chance of securing the necessary financing to proceed with their projects.

Anderson emphasized that the initiative is not solely focused on affordable housing but encompasses housing of varying price points. With housing affordability emerging as a major concern nationwide, cities like Wichita are actively exploring ways to increase housing options for residents across the economic spectrum.

One such project currently under consideration involves the transformation of an office building located at 212 N. Market into apartments. The proposed development would add 74 new housing units to the area but requires significant financial support, including $21 million in industrial revenue bonds.

The urgency for such initiatives is underscored by the growing demand for housing in downtown Wichita, particularly with the recent establishment of the new biomedical campus. According to city officials, the area requires over 700 additional housing units to meet the burgeoning demand.

As the city council prepares to deliberate on these proposed incentives, the outcome of the vote could have far-reaching implications for the future of affordable housing development in Wichita.