Houston City Council delays vote on affordable housing complex, citing flood concerns

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) - Houston City Council delayed a vote on an affordable housing complex Wednesday, citing concerns that the lot selected for development frequently floods.

Developers for the proposed project, Ariza Park Row, requested the council approve tax abatements.

The project would be built on Blackhaw Street, which straddles the Addicks Reservoir.

It is located along the Energy Corridor, which District A Council Member Amy Peck represents.

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"Really, nothing should be built right here. But, if something is going to be built, it certainly shouldn't be affordable housing for an already vulnerable population that probably can't afford to start over if they get flooded," Peck said.

Peck said details on the proposed project remain scant. The vote was delayed one week by District E Council Member Fred Flickinger. Peck said she hopes her colleagues will join her in voting against it.

"We need affordable housing. I support it. It just needs to be in the right location," Peck said.

At-Large Position 4 Council Member Leticia Plummer said she plans to vote in favor of the project, along with another affordable housing project that was also delayed one week. She cited the need for new and affordable housing in the city.