Charleston Approves Final Phase for Affordable Housing Initiative

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – On Tuesday evening, the Charleston County Council approved the final stage of an initiative aimed at promoting affordable housing with a vote consisting of nine affirmative votes.

Approximately three years back, the council bought 18 houses from the Charleston County Housing & Redevelopment Authority, out of which 16 were included in the Charleston Home Program.

The Charleston Home Program aims to keep the specified 16 properties at their present value for long-term residents of Charleston.

"Thanks to our partnerships on these initiatives, we can successfully deliver," stated Jenny Costa Honeycutt, who serves as the County Council Member for District Nine in Charleston County.

As this marks the final stage of the program, the developers can now proceed with the construction of the remaining houses.

"When they finish the repairs, as compensation, the county will provide them with the house. They then have the option to either lease or sell the property; however, it must stay affordably priced for at least 90 years," explained LoElla Smalls, who directs community development and revitalization efforts for Charleston County.

Honeycutt states that due to the county’s growth and rising home prices, it can pose challenges.

"There's this moderate midpoint where our current housing inventory falls short, and these newly available properties coming onto the market will assist with addressing that issue," Honeycutt stated.

This project has been underway for many years, and both the council and the county’s staff are prepared to take the necessary final steps for these remaining five homes in the program.

"One of the key goals in this plan is to preserve our current supply of affordable homes. Therefore, ensuring that these houses remain affordable is essential for offering the necessary mid-range housing options," Honeycutt stated.

Smalls mentioned that after completion of these homes, developers can target individuals within the Area Median Income range, such as teachers, police officers, or restaurant staff.

"The house we completed earlier this year is being rented by someone who works at a family-owned restaurant nearby. This allows him to be only two minutes away from his workplace. He also has a wife and two kids, so having access to this home is significant for their well-being," Smalls stated.

Smalls expressed optimism as they conclude this final stage, hoping to witness the positive effect these homes will have on the neighborhood.