Copyright © 2003 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

Wisdom Keepers, once completed, will look similar
to the Stilwell Senior Housing, and Jay Senior Housing (pictured).

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation (HACN) recently received official notification from the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency of an allocation of tax credits for the Wisdom Keepers Limited Partnership, a senior housing entity formed by the HACN.

"The Wisdom Keepers Limited Partnership, was established to apply for alternative financing to construct a 40 unit apartment complex in Tahlequah, for both the Native American and non-Indian senior population," said Ron Qualls, HACN executive director.

"These tax credits will allow us to bring $2,706,925 of private monies into this $3.4 million development," Qualls said.

"This is the third successful application for the Housing Authority through the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency and I commend our Housing Authority for their concern and work for our elderly Cherokees," said Principal Chief Chad Smith, 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 to bring affordable housing to the elderly in our city," said Mayor Jerry C. Cook, of Tahlequah. "The elderly are an important segment of our community. We along with Housing Authority realize that, and have brought this idea to reality."

"I am excited that we are able to bring such a project to Tahlequah and Cherokee County, this is good news," said John Ketcher, council member, Cherokee Nation District 1. "I look forward to the construction phase. The lack of adequate housing is an ongoing issue, and this is a wonderful opportunity to provide a safe, warm, and healthy environment."

The development will be constructed at 1286 W. 4th, in Tahlequah.

"I am thankful we were able to get a wonderful project like this for Cherokee County to help our elderly," said Don Crittenden, council member, Cherokee Nation District 1. "I appreciate the hard work the Housing Authority staff has put forth and allowing their efforts to payoff."

Eligibility requirements include applicant must qualify within income limits and be 62 or older. These units are open to the public. All units will be handicapped equipped. Meal services will be provided through the Cherokee Nation Elderly Nutrition and health screenings provided by the Cherokee Nation Home Health Services, Inc.

"I'm just excited about getting this chance to do more for the Cherokee people in getting quality housing. This will not only help the economy but will also help promote Cherokee pride. It's a wonderful thing for our people who have worked hard and they deserve decent housing, and know that they are getting things that they have needed for a long time. I'm proud to be a part of that," said Mary Adair, chairman, HACN Board of Commissioners.

According to Qualls, the rents can be subsidized through Section 8 and the rents for all elderly Cherokees will be assisted through the HACN's Rental Assistance Program.

The ground breaking is tentatively scheduled for March 2003 with the completed project set for the spring of 2004.

"This is a great example of a private and public partnership for housing," said Qualls.

For more information or to apply contact, Sooner Management, located at 201 South Yorkshire, Wagoner, Oklahoma, 74467; or call and ask for Bonnie Cox or Mary Nanson, phone: 918-485-8885, or 866-652-8885 toll free.