Proposed Affordable Workforce Housing Project in Seneca

The city planning commission has deemed a proposed affordable workforce housing project unsuitable for Seneca’s EN 1st Street. Following a hearing at city hall, the commission unanimously voted against a zoning change requested by Mercy Housing Southeast.

A representative from Mercy Housing in Atlanta advocated for a residential zone in an area currently zoned for general commercial use. The proposal was for 74 units intended for professionals like teachers and firefighters, who are in need of affordable housing. Berniece Hopper from Mercy Housing clarified that the project is not intended for homeless housing. Despite this, concerns were raised by several members of the public and the commission…

Commission Chairman Barry Duvall expressed his belief that the proposed apartments would not be appropriate for the 450 feet of EN 1st Street frontage, which serves as an entrance to downtown.

Both Duvall and Commissioner Matthew Durham acknowledged the city’s need for affordable housing but agreed that EN 1st Street was not the right location. While the vote represents a hurdle for Mercy Housing, it does not spell the end for the project.

Chairman Duvall explained that the vote is merely advisory, and the final decision will be made by the city council in their meetings in March and April.