KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — 2023 will see continued efforts to increase the stock of affordable housing in Kalamazoo, and many say its the area’s biggest problem.
Kalamazoo County will lead the way, bolstered by their voter approved housing millage and Covid relief funding.
County Housing Director Mary Balkema says even though the greatest demand may be for single family homes, the largest portion of their funding will subsidize large housing complexes.
“The City of Kalamazoo has also put out four million dollars in ARPA funding. They have Home Dollars, they have Foundation for Excellence,” said Balkema who stated that they are not the only local government putting money into affordable housing.
“We are 7,750 units short of affordable housing. And those multi-family bills, that’s where we’ll get the most bang for our buck,” noted Balkema who said that they will also be funding home repairs for the elderly and low income, and support services to help new owners, and those who may need financial help to avoid foreclosure.
Reporting by: John McNeill
