The Cottonwood Falls Housing Authority held a special open house Sunday, celebrating the reconstruction of several housing units and repurposed laundry room after a deadly fire nearly three years ago.
The Low Housing Development had a devastating fire in 2022 that killed 74-year-old Sharon Tatman. Complex manager Dee Wessel says the fire was a “terrible tragedy” and there was a long process before rebuilding was possible, with conversations at the local, state and federal levels.
Construction began in early June 2024, and Wessel says there are still some items left to install or finish before official move-in April 1. All four units have been rented, and the laundry room now serves as a recreation room and severe weather safe room.
Wessel also says she would like to see another three units built at the complex. Board approval is needed before conversations can start at the local, state and federal levels.
