Several programs utilizing the new ½ cent sales tax approved by voters in 2021 are now approved by the City Commission.

The money will start going towards programs involving housing and community development, park improvements and historic downtown programs. The city is providing incentive money on a first-come basis of $3,000 for new single-family home construction and $1,500 per unit for multi-family construction. Director of Housing Charla Brown says this is aimed at dealing with the lack of housing in the city.

The city will also provide a $1,500 incentive for first-time home buyers and senior assistance programs for low and moderate-income individuals. The city will also provide up to $300 for painting any home, and additional USDA housing programs will also be available.

Money will also be available for improvements to downtown buildings where the city will match 50 percent of the money for projects in different categories up to $5,000 per year. A $5,000 incentive will also be available to businesses looking to relocate downtown.  City Manager Mark Hall says this is a big step forward for Coffeyville.

The sales tax money will also fund one park improvement each year, the first of which will be Sycamore Park just west of Community Elementary on 1st street.