Local News

The Grants Pass City Council heard Housing Loan Fund and Property Update presentations during Monday's workshop.

The Moderate Income Revolving Loan (MIRL) Program, a fund provided by OHCS, was presented as a loan fund for cities and counties to boost housing production for moderate income Oregonians at or below 120% AMI.

The council was told MIRL is designed to serve as a gap resource for eligible projects. The no-interest loan would be issued, a developer would then build or improve a housing property, the county tax assessor would collect the program fee, send the net program fee to OHCS, and the repaid loan funds would be recycled.

The board was called to either adopt a local resolution, wait for a request for MIRL funding from a private applicant, or hold another workshop for further elaboration. The board approved a motion for a memo to cover further questions.

The Hillcrest Drive and Beacon Hill Surplus Property Partition Update was presented to the council. Further work would have a cost implication of $9,800, with about $3,000 incurred to date. An additional $3 to $4,000 in fees was presented.

The council, following a motion by Councilman Rick Riker, moved to suspend the land survey, and proceed with public engagement on Beacon Hill amenities. The motion passed 5-3.

City Manager Aaron Cubic also presented the council with a Strategic and Work Plan third quarter update, highlighting many efforts put forth in the community supporting public safety, economic growth, fiscal stability, infrastructure, and housing and homelessness goals.