Staff Recommends HR Council move forward on Affordable Housing, May St. sidewalk funding

Hood River, Ore., March 24, 2025 — The Hood River City Council is set to make a decision on awarding the 129-unit affordable housing project at 780 Rand Road tonight at its regular meeting at 6 p.m. tonight.

Mariposa Village Affordable Housing Development

Rendering of possible solar powered Community Center and open space that would support the residents of the planned 129 units of affordable housing to be built off Rand Road. Image: Holst Architecture

The Council will review agreements related to the Mariposa Village project, a 129-unit affordable housing complex. Under the terms of the Purchase Option Agreement with a joint venture of Community Development Partners and Columbia Cascade Housing Corporation the City will provide land at no cost and contribute up to $2,438,595 in funding for water, sewer, and stormwater expenses.

This includes a minimum obligation of $2,200,000, even if state funding from Senate Bill 1530 is unavailable. Construction is expected to begin following the project’s scheduled closing on April 17, with completion anticipated in early 2027.

City staff recommend authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary development agreements.

Loan Application for Road Fund Reimbursement

The Council will consider approving the submission of a loan application to the Oregon Transportation Infrastructure Bank (OTIB) for the replacement of the May Street elevated sidewalk between 13th Street and Katie’s Lane.

The City seeks a $1,999,701 loan to reimburse the General Fund for a $1,799,701.56 payment made on behalf of the Road Fund, plus an additional $200,000 for contingency costs. The loan would be repaid over 20 years, with costs incurred up to 12 months before the loan's execution date eligible for reimbursement. City staff recommend approval of the loan request.

Big Jim’s Drive-In Liquor License

The Council’s Consent agenda also contains approval of a new liquor license for Big Jim’s Drive-In, 1950 12th Street.