Last week, in The More You Know: Housing Edition Part 1, we shared information related to common terms, such as STEP Housing and Area Median Income (AMI), that are critical to a common understanding of housing issues in Kenmore. In part 2, we invite the community to learn more about a specific housing proposal, The Approach at Kenmore.  

Background 

The Kenmore City Council has identified increasing housing availability for all income levels, including those experiencing homelessness, as a top priority from 2021 through 2025. In 2022, the City purchased the Holt property at 7010 NE 181st Street and in 2023 issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for affordable housing on that property. The Imagine Housing/Habitat for Humanity partnership and conceptual proposal was selected, which included 132 rental units and 20 ownership units, alongside 7,000 sq. ft. for community space.

The proposal will continue to be refined to meet land use regulations. On September 30, 2024, the City Council authorized a non-binding Letter of Intent with Imagine Housing to negotiate a Purchase and Sale Agreement  (PSA)for the development. The City Council will be considering authorizing the Purchase and Sale Agreement (PSA) at the March 24 City Council meeting. The PSA agreement anticipates there will be approximately 103 rental units and 18 ownership units with a mix of one, two and three bedroom units. Between 100 to 139 parking spaces are anticipated and the ground level of the rental building is for a future community service partner.  

A high-level conceptual rendering of The Approach, provided by Imagine Housing.

How Can I learn More?

Imagine Housing, Habitat for Humanity and the City held two community meetings on February 25 and 27. Imagine Housing has updated the website page with responses to the questions raised during these sessions, as well as the recordings and slide decks. The next convening is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18th, at the Hangar, from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. This is an in-person only convening and will not be recorded. 

In addition, the City website provides additional background information, links to City Council action, previous communication efforts, and an FAQ document.  

What’s Next

On March 24, the City Council will consider the Purchase and Sale Agreement to transfer the property to Imagine Housing for this affordable housing development. The agenda packet with the proposed purchase and sale agreement and additional background information, can be found here.