JDA, BASC Team Up to Tackle McKenzie County Housing Needs
Travis Bateman
Farmer Staff Writer
At their April 7 meeting, McKenzie County Commissioners were given a presentation and funding request from representatives of the McKenzie County Job Development Authority (JDA) and the Bakken Area Skills Center. The presentation for a multi-faceted plan aimed at addressing the pressing housing issues within the county as well as an expansion of a local student education program took center stage for about an hour. Led by Aaron Pelton, President of the McKenzie County JDA, the team outlined a three-tiered approach that focuses on senior housing, workforce development through the Bakken Area Skill Center, and a renewed Pathway to Purchase program.
The first component of the proposal emphasizes the urgent need for senior-suitable housing in McKenzie County. Pelton highlighted that the community is significantly overdue in providing adequate housing options for seniors, who wish to remain close to family and essential services such as healthcare. The proposed senior housing units will feature accessible designs, including zero-entry layouts, wider doorways, and walk-in showers to accommodate the needs of elderly residents.
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