Local city officials and members of the Hope Initiative updated the Rotary Club about new homes being built in Princeton for families displaced by the December 2021 tornado.
At Tuesday’s meeting, Lisa Matthews with Hope Initiative shared that the nonprofit began after the 2021 tornado with a grant from Pilgrims, resulting in 54 homes built in Mayfield. With additional support from the Red Cross, she stated that nine projects are underway in Georgia, but Matthews said they are also focused on building six homes in Princeton.
click to download audioMatthews added that when a city joins forces with its churches and leaders, these projects become possible.
Princeton Planning Commission Administrator Jenny Clark told Rotarians it has been a learning process and said the community is “blessed” to have the Hope Initiative involved.
click to download audioShe shared her admiration for the organization’s commitment to supporting the city every step of the way and making sure no one is left behind.
She added that this has been a two-year process where the city has been working on a master foreclosure list that included dilapidated properties, and then partnered with the Hope Initiative to find a way to utilize the properties.
Clark said they carefully selected lots to match houses with available space, and are excited to explore creative, more affordable housing options like iron-clad homes or shipping container homes through the Hope Initiative.
click to download audioShe said they are excited about the new home, believing that once finished, it will be indistinguishable from a standard house to anyone passing by.
Clark said they created a development agreement with the Hope Initiative and private contractors to build on several lots, and hope some contractors will build private homes that will also be available for sale in the community. She noted the first house will be a manufactured home.
Clark also shared that the six families moving into these homes are relocating from Dawson Springs to Princeton. She noted the families work in Princeton, and they are excited to welcome them into the community and school system.
click to download audioClark said they are looking for additional lots to build more homes and plan to hold an open house with Governor Andy Beshear once the homes are completed.
Lisa Matthews with Hope Initiative audio:
Princeton Planning Commission Administrator Jenny Clark’s presentation audio:
