Jefferson city officials are hoping to cash in on one more housing developer before its special designation expires.

The Jefferson City Council approved at its April 23rd meeting a resolution of support for Origin Homes for a Workforce Housing Tax Credit application by a 4-1 vote, with Council member Chad Sloan voting no. City Administrator Scott Peterson says the developer has selected three communities to build homes in Iowa, and Jefferson was one of them.

“Actually a small development so what it would amount to is three homes to start with and these homes would be built on city-owned in-fill lots. So the city would work with them, and have them acquire these lots. And think about these being single-family, owner-occupied homes (and) be built and then offered for sale.”   

Peterson notes the three lots are located at 504 and 508 North Vine Street and 600 West Lincoln Way. However, the city does not own 508 North Vine Street which has a house on the property, but is in negotiations to take possession. He points out the major reason that Origin Homes is interested in Jefferson is due to their special designation as an Iowa Thriving Community from Iowa Economic Development Authority last year.

“And this was the main benefit that the community got out of that designation is get these bonus points on these tax credit applications.”

Peterson adds the designation lasts for one year and then the city can’t re-apply. He says the application is due in June and the award notifications are sent out in the fall.