By Jean Cole
March 26, 2008 09:15 pm
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Habitat for Humanity officials asked Athens city officials for $130,000 to $150,000 for a street, sewer and other infrastructure for the Habitat subdivision, but said they would settle for anything the city can spare.
Garth Lovvorn Jr., executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Limestone County, told City Council members the non-profit group needs the money for a cul de sac in nine-home Hope Subdivision going up at Browns Ferry and Strange streets.
Lovvorn asked council members last May if the city could help in the cost, which was then estimated at about $125,000, but he said this week the cost has increased to about $130,000, possibly more, due to higher fuel costs.
Habitat is seeking money from several different corporations to help build the development.
Councilman Harold Wales asked if the money would need to be in the form of an annual appropriation from the city and, if so, whether the cost would be $25,000 a year or $50,000 a year, or some other amount.
After discussing the matter, Lovvorn offered another option – matching the amount Habitat hopes to receive from Steelcase and other corporations.
Angela McLan, Habitat public relations and fundraising officer, pointed out that the housing development would raise property values in the area and generate property tax for the city.
Often, property is chosen and rundown parts of a city and the process of building new homes sparks pride in ownership.
She said those who qualify for a Habitat-built home are required to make mortgage payments and provide 400 to 500 hours of “sweat equity” during the construction process.
The matching option appeared more palatable to council members, but they made no commitment. The city already waves tap fees for the development.
Council members plan to discuss the matter again when Lovvorn learns how much the proposed match might be.
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