housing

On today’s episode of the Kenai Conversation, we’re joined by Cassidi Cameron, executive director of the Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District.

The project is backed by $16.7 million in federal grants and local matching funds.

City council members killed a proposed cap on the number of guests in a unit and passed a separate resolution removing the $50 fee for the permit Soldotna requires short-term rental operators to obtain.

Attendees at the annual homeless outreach event can learn about local housing options, get their haircut, take a shower and leave with a backpack full of supplies and winter clothing, among other things.

Homes in the region are getting more expensive, and there are fewer of them to buy.

A mix of national and local issues, like high home prices and an overall housing shortage – are driving the problem.

The program will give discounts and special financing terms to eligible participants who bid on qualifying pieces of borough land.

More than 100 people participated in this year’s Project Homeless Connect event.

The program offers a unique opportunity for participants to save money on a new home by helping build it – something the organization calls “sweat equity.”

Borough Mayor Peter Micciche says the borough’s interest in the land is directly tied to housing shortages.