COUNCIL AGENDA: 6/21/2022
ITEM: 8.4
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND FROM: Councilmember Raul Peralez
CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT: SEE BELOW DATE: June 17, 2022
Approved by: Date: 6/17/2022
SUBJECT: ACTIONS RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE KELSEY AYER STATION; A NEW AFFORDABLE APARTMENT
COMMUNITY LOCATED AT 447 NORTH FIRST STREET
RECOMMENDATION
Accept staff recommendation to adopt a resolution to enable The Kelsey to close the construction financing to build The Kelsey Ayer Station, a 115 unit affordable housing development.
BACKGROUND
When The Kelsey first approached my office, what was particularly unique about their project was that it was not just an affordable housing development, but it was also designed to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This has been a population that has not been historically focused on in affordable housing. Not only would a portion of the units be reserved for those with disabilities, but the design of the entire building would be accessible and functionable for all abilities. Like Kelsey O’Connor, a family member of The Kelsey’s founder Micaela Connery, I too have a family member with a developmental disability and can attest how allowing her to have a fully inclusive lifestyle has been beneficial to her and our family. These types of opportunities should be abundant and widespread.
I would like to commend staff and the Kelsey for your work in making this project a reality. While the project site invoked SB 35, it was important to our office that there be robust community engagement. Kelsey did not shy away and actively engaged with the Vendome neighborhood holding a series of large meetings and direct 1:1 outreach. They continue to remain in close contact with the surrounding community today. I am proud to welcome this first of its kind mixed ability and mixed-income housing community to District 3 and hope to see more replicated throughout the City.