LEON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) — How does a free home renovation without paying higher rent sound? That's what Leon County Housing wants to bring to more than 100 families who live in Tallahassee's southside community.
Before moving forward with construction county commissioners need to green light it.
"This one right here preserves multi-family housing for our low-income residents in Leon County so we think that's important. It's a better quality of life," said Shington Lamy, Director of Leon County Human Services and Community Partnerships.
Magnolia Terrace Apartments they've been around for 48 years and haven't seen any major upgrades. Improvements that many who live here say are much needed
The Housing Finance Authority wants to change that by putting 13 million dollars into renovating the 108 units.
"The rents are not going to change for the people that live in this development. They're not going to be paying higher rents because the apartments are improved.That's good for the community, good for the neighborhood, good for the residents," said Financial Adviser Mark Hendrickson.
Replacing these A.C. units with energy efficient ones are first up on the project's to do list. Those who live here will also get new water heaters, plumbing and appliances.
City leaders say this neighborhood is a main focus for redevelopment, growth, and more affordable housing.
"In that area you have a high rate of poverty. You you have a high rate of crime. So any way where we can provide a better opportunity in the way of housing we're happy to do. It ties right in with our effort to build and preserve affordable housing," said Lamy.
If this project is approved, planners say construction is set to start at the end of 2019.
County commissioners will vote on this at their May 14 meeting.
If approved, planners say the renovations will last about twelve months, starting later this year.
