Kirkwood seeks nonprofit housing model

Kirkwood, Missouri, is moving to establish a nonprofit housing entity to address local affordability gaps. The city’s goal is to open avenues for developers to construct and densify housing stock within the municipality. This initiative follows a specific study that informed the current planning approach.

Development proposals in Kirkwood have frequently encountered opposition from residents. A prime example occurred last month when city members reviewed a plan for a block of apartments on the north side of the city. Before casting their votes, council members demanded a detailed look at the project’s financial structure. The meeting ended with a 5-4 vote to table the project. The delay allows for further discussion among leaders and residents regarding the city’s funding strategy for the development.

Douglas, a local official, noted that having a community land trust does not guarantee a large number of cheap homes. He stated that getting one home completed in a year would be an extreme success. He added that it is not a silver bullet.

The proposed structure aims to overcome resistance to denser projects. City officials believe the nonprofit model will facilitate the opening of new avenues for housing construction. The 5-4 vote to delay the north side project highlights the current friction in the local housing market.