HRS Board Discusses Future Funding For Baxter Developments

Highlands Residential Services evaluating the future of its Baxter developments.

Executive Director Dow Harris said the housing authority is considering transitioning from public housing to section 8 housing. Harris said changing the funding structure opens more opportunities to consider for the 50 units.

“What could we do with Baxter and keep it in our niche, keep it in affordable housing, keep it in low rent, workforce housing or whatever,” Harris said. “But how much could we change to bring that up to speed.”

Harris said the units were originally built in the 1960’s. Harris said the change would mean the board could consider a rehabilitation project or even sell the property. Harris said the housing authority would have more funding available through section 8.

Director of Operations Chris Cassetty said it is unlikely that the board pursues selling the development, but the option would be available. Cassetty said transitioning to section 8 would bring Baxter to the same model as Cookeville units.