Habitat to construct first home in South County

By TIM HIRSCH

Good things come to those that wait. And, sometimes, wait, and wait, and wait. That’s certainly been the case for South Tillamook County’s journey towards the first home built here by Habitat for Humanity.

But, now, the wait is over. Tillamook Habitat for Humanity is hosting a socially distanced groundbreaking ceremony Saturday, Feb. 27, 2-3 p.m., for its first home in South Tillamook County — at a property located at 31350 Hwy 101., S., Hebo. When complete, the new two-story structure will provide the Kelekolio family a home designed to fit their family of five — including a fourth bedroom (Habitat normally builds three bedroom homes) so as to provide the separate space needed by one of the children due to a disability.

The family was selected out of the 26 that applied. Cami Aufdermauer, executive director of Tillamook Habitat for Humanity, said that though Habitat did receive applicants from South County residents, none of those were qualified. Enter, the Kelekolios, who currently reside in central county, a family that has already completed the bulk of the 500 hours of required sweat equity. Still, according to Aufdermauer, they remain excited about rolling up their sleeves at the new construction site, as well.

“They’re excited to get started on their (own home),” said Aufdermauer.

Habitat has owned the property since 2007 when Tillamook County donated the property to the nonprofit organization. And now, the site will represent Tillamook Habitat’s 30th home built in the county. (The organization has also remodeled two homes.) The project will be managed by Tony Troyer, of HIS Construction,

On the agenda for the event will be opening remarks by staff from Tillamook Habitat for Humanity, the Kelekolio family, and at least one government representative. (As of press time, Rep. Suzanne Weber, of Tillamook, had confirmed.) As well, Pastor Lonnie Moeller of Hebo Christian Center, will offer up a prayer, the house plans will be unveiled, and then all will be invited to a bonfire featuring roasted marshmallows and s’mores. Hot chocolate and cider will also be on hand.

“It’s exciting that a new house is going in,” Aufdermauer added. “We want to get the surrounding community involved through volunteering. We can (work with) individual volunteers, groups, organizations, (and companies representing the construction) trades. We’d love to develop more partnerships with plumbers and roofers and building contractors (so we can) utilize the trades.”

Those interested in volunteering will be able to offer up their time and talents by listing their name on a sign-up sheet at the event.

Alternatively, those interested in volunteering can contact volunteer coordinator Julia Giel via tillamookhabitat.org or by emailing her at volunteer@tillamookhabitat.org.

“Our first need is help clearing the brush,” Aufdermauer said.

Amongst the unique part of this project is that Habitat is adding an affordable housing covenant to its title meaning that the home will only be able to be sold to another low-income family when it’s time for the Kelekokios to move on.

“This home will be permanently affordable,” Aufdermauer added. “It really is a community asset — the funds that are put into the house will continue to serve families from one generation to the next.”