Grant will address housing issue

The Seneca County Land Reutilization Corporation, in collaboration with the cities of Fostoria and Tiffin, Fostoria Economic Development Corporation and the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership, has announced that a grant of $2.75 million has been awarded under the Welcome Home Ohio program to address the county's housing shortage. A news release from the Seneca County Land Bank said the grant will support the construction of eight to 10 new, affordable, owner-occupied homes in Fostoria and Tiffin. The release says the project was initiated in response to housing studies conducted by both municipalities and Seneca County over the last few years, which have identified a critical need for modern, affordable workforce housing to support local economic growth and address outdated housing stock. "The Welcome Home Ohio program is a transformative opportunity for our community," Fostoria Mayor Don Mennel is quoted as saying in the release. "By providing new, affordable homes, we're not just building houses; we're strengthening families, supporting local businesses and creating a brighter future for Fostoria." The initiative leverages a collaborative approach, with local stakeholders contributing to the success of the program, the release says. The $2.75 million grant will cover the project cost, ensuring long-term affordability through deed restrictions. Each property will remain affordable for 20 years, offering stability for residents earning less than 80% of the area median income, the release says. "This grant demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together," Tiffin Mayor Lee Wilkinson is quoted as saying in the release. "These homes will provide much-needed housing for our growing workforce, improve quality of life and help keep our residents rooted in the community." The release says the program is expected to have far-reaching economic and social impacts, including: The expansion of workforce housing to attract and retain skilled employees; The reduction of commuting costs for local workers; The strengthening of community stability by enabling residents to live near their workplaces. "This is a victory for everyone in Seneca County," Seneca County Commissioner Tony Paradiso was quoted as saying. "This grant addresses our housing challenges head-on and lays the foundation for future economic and community development. It's a win-win for our residents and our local businesses." The construction projects are set to begin in 2025 and be completed by the end of 2026.