NEWS RELEASE Leavenworth Affordable Rental Project Funded in Senate Budget

Senator Brad Hawkins has successfully secured $1. 3 million in the Senate's capital budget proposal to finalize funding for an affordable rental project in Leavenworth, aimed at preserving 31 apartment units for local workforce housing. This initiative builds upon previous financial support from Leavenworth, Chelan County, and the state, totaling over $2. 5 million. Hawkins expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "This is a unique opportunity thanks to the Marson Family," and emphasized the collaborative effort with local partners to meet the community's housing needs.

Mayor Carl Florea highlighted the critical situation, noting that Leavenworth's tourism workforce has grown by over 500 workers in the past decade without a corresponding increase in available housing. He cautioned that the community risks becoming unaffordable for local residents, which could harm local businesses and the environment. Kaylin Bettinger from Upper Valley MEND pointed out that the high housing costs have led to reduced operating hours for local businesses and difficulties in retaining staff in essential services like healthcare and education. The funding request aligns with Hawkins' earlier legislative efforts to empower counties to use sales tax revenues for affordable housing. The final budget approval is anticipated in early March, with hopes that this funding will be preserved.