(KNZA)--A local contractor is seeking city assistance with an affordable housing project in Hiawatha.

Franklin Avalos with BB Brothers Contractor met with the Hiawatha City Commission Monday night to request assistance with renovating the former Oak Ridge Acres nursing home at 201 Sioux Avenue into eleven affordable apartments.

The plans call for 900-square-foot, two-bedroom apartments renting for between 800 and 850 dollars a month.

The project’s primary expenses are new utility connections and installation of a fire sprinkler system, with total costs estimated at 150-thousand dollars.

Avalos asked the city to waive tap fees for twelve water and sewer connections and consider providing economic development funds to help with the project.

He said the renovation would increase the availability of affordable housing in Hiawatha while putting an existing property back into use.

City Administrator Brad Scott said waiving the tap fees would have little financial impact on the city. Commissioners unanimously approved that request.

However, Scott said he was unsure of the legal requirements for providing economic development funds directly to the project. He suggested exploring a grant program using economic development sales tax funds to assist with renovation projects.

Commissioners expressed support for Avalos and his efforts to bring additional affordable housing to Hiawatha.