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The Stilwell Senior Housing Project will look similar to the Pioneer Village Apartments (pictured) located in Jenks.

STILWELL, OK - The Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation will begin construction soon on a 40-unit apartment complex for senior citizens in Stilwell. The construction is made possible by an allocation of tax credits for the Stilwell Senior Housing Limited Partnership, an entity formed by the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation.

"The Stilwell Senior Housing Limited Partnership was established to apply for alternative financing to construct a 40 unit apartment complex for both the non-Indian and Native American elderly", said Ron Qualls, HACN Executive Director. "These tax credits will allow us to bring $2,005,217 of private monies into this $3.139 million development."

The tax credit money ensures completion of new projects without taking money earmarked for other planned Housing Authority projects.

"This is the second successful application for the Housing Authority through the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency and I commend our Housing Authority for their concern and work for elderly Cherokees", said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. "We are able to provide more housing services to the Cherokee people because of this innovative financing plan."

"I am happy to be a part of the efforts along with the Housing Authority and Cherokee Nation to bring affordable housing to the elderly in our city", said Marilyn Hill, Stilwell Mayor.

The ground breaking is tentatively scheduled for March 2002 and the project should be completed in the spring of 2003. The apartment complex will be constructed at 400 N. 8th, in Stillwell, on the corner of 8th and Cemetery Road. These units will be open to all senior citizens who meet eligibility requirements.

To be eligible, applicants must be 62 or older and meet specific income requirements. Rent will range from $275-$300 per unit. All units will be handicapped equipped. The Stillwell Elderly Nutrition Center will provide meal services; HACN will provide transportation, and the Wilma P. Mankiller Health Clinic will provide health screenings to residents. Rent can be subsidized through Section 8 and rent for all elderly Cherokees can be subsidized through the HACN's Rental Assistance Program.

For more information or to apply contact Bonnie Cox or Mary Nanson at Sooner Management, phone: 918-485-8885.