(Atlantic) The landscape is transforming at the Vision Atlantic Camblin Hills housing development on the south edge of Atlantic. New home walls are rising in some areas, while fresh foundations are being laid throughout the site. This is all part of a 142-unit housing development project.
Melissa Ihnen, Vision Atlantic Secretary, stated this is the most exciting step so far.
Ihnen says they will begin planning for the next phase of construction this spring.
Vision Atlantic President Christina Bateman says fundraising efforts are continuing to move forward for the 300-capacity childcare development center and the expansion of the Nishna Valley YMCA. As of last week, Bateman says they had received just over $28 million in signed pledges, bringing them closer to reaching 80 percent of their goal by the end of the year. She adds that one of their verbal pledges has recently been confirmed.
Christina Bateman expressed her appreciation to everyone who has donated, in whatever form it may be.
Bateman states that once these homes are completed and the T.I.F. expires, all taxing entities in the city and county will see an increase in property tax revenue.
Bateman explains that, for instance, with $48 million worth of new housing, the city of Atlantic could see an estimated $480,000 increase in property tax revenue, assuming all other factors remain constant. She notes that this additional tax revenue would enable the city to provide essential services and resources to support the community.
