Staff writer
Blueprints have been finalized and students have received introductory instruction, but the Marion High School construction class has not started its annual house project yet because of lack of funds.
Teacher Lucas King said Homestead Affordable Housing delayed progress for construction this year, because the house built by his class last year on the corner of Eisenhower and Denver streets in Marion has not been sold.
Homestead paid for all construction costs of the house built last year and anticipated using funds from that sale to finance the current project.
King said Homestead refinanced last year’s house with Central National Bank and he hopes the class will start working on the new project in the next two weeks.
The usual goal for the construction class is to begin work on a house by Sept. 1. But, with less time this year King plans to rely more on contractors than student labor.
“We may get the foundation laid and have the roof professionally installed,” he said.
Earlier discussions between King and Homestead representatives revealed interest in building a duplex community for senior living, but Marion City Administrator Doug Kjellin said a subdivision permit needed for that endeavor has not yet been obtained.