Manitowoc Mayor Justin Nickels
‘There is a rental property shortage here,” states Manitowoc Mayor Justin Nickels.
“We see that with the new apartments that are being built out at the old Elk’s Club, and the ones downtown have a waiting list. There’s also a need for senior housing, apartments for seniors who want to get out of the house not do the lawn, and not necessarily worry about those taxes. We’re looking at the old Santa’s Best Building Tinsel Factory. That’ll be quite a few units geared towards seniors.”
Appearing on WCUB’s Breakfast Club this morning, Nickels said employers are struggling to find workers and was asked if they would consider filling those openings with Afghan refugees.
“Quite a few business leaders and I believe the Chamber and Progress Lakeshore has made it known that if there is a group or contingent of people, not speaking thousands of people here, that we would be welcoming and try to help them find accommodations and jobs. We are welcoming but not actively seeking.”
He adds that there’s a shortage for Income Restricted Housing, which refers to those who may just be starting out and may not have the resources yet to put a down payment on a home and finding a place to fit their budget.
Although not one specific reason can be given for these issues, The Mayor emphasizes the city is continually working to find solutions and help any and everyone who needs housing and employment.
