There is a 16 percent vacancy rate in apartments, according to a study by Coldwell Banker commercial property management division. Kennewick has the same rate as Pasco, while Richland has a 9 percent vacancy rate. Smith said he's not prepared to support the plan until the vacancy rate drops below 6 percent. Smith said he and City Manager Gary Crutchfield have been vocal about their opposition, but the city council has not taken a position on the plan. However, the city's concerns and use of vacancy rate figures don't address migrant housing specifically.
Housing offered by the authority for migrant workers is tight.
The agency's 24-unit Highland Park building has a 3 percent to 5 percent vacancy rate, Cichocki said. Copyright 1998 Tri-City Herald. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.