Prescott Valley project offers affordable housing to essential workers with open house on February 4

In a pivotal Workforce Housing Townhall meeting held on January 30, 2025, local leaders in Prescott City, Yavapai County, underscored the urgent need for affordable housing solutions. The discussions highlighted a collaborative approach to address the housing crisis affecting essential workers in the community.

Key among the announcements was the introduction of a Request for Proposals (RFP) process aimed at hiring a consulting firm. This initiative is designed to create a comprehensive housing needs assessment and implementation plan, ensuring that the city can effectively tackle its housing challenges. "We want to develop a packet personnel to help you get through the process because we want you to be successful," stated one committee member, emphasizing the commitment to support stakeholders throughout this journey.

The meeting also featured insights from Alex Vakula of the Pronghorn Group, who shared details about their housing project in Prescott Valley. With 45 homes ready for rent and plans for a total of 140, the project aims to provide affordable options for essential workers, including hospital staff and police clerks. "We're going to be able to drive down that price to about $950 a month," Vakula noted, highlighting the stark contrast to the current market rates that often exceed $1,700.

The urgency of the housing situation was palpable, with committee members acknowledging that the crisis is not a distant threat but a current reality. "We offered a job to a very qualified firefighter that had to turn it down because he couldn't get housing," one member remarked, reinforcing the immediate need for action.

Looking ahead, the city council's study session on the workforce housing policy is scheduled for May 27, 2025. Community members are encouraged to participate in ongoing discussions and a housing needs assessment survey available on the city's website.

As the meeting concluded, leaders expressed their dedication to finding solutions and urged community involvement, stating, "We are going to get the solution, and we are going to get this handled." The commitment to addressing workforce housing needs remains a top priority for Prescott City and Yavapai County as they work towards a more sustainable future for their residents.