LAMAR—Good news seems to be finally coming for residents of the Alamo, a low income housing unit in downtown Lamar for the elderly and disabled population. In recent weeks, residents of the facility were informed the building would be closing as of August 31.

Melanie Gurule, Lamar Housing Authority director, informed those in attendance Tuesday, at an informational session with members of the authority’s board, that all but two of the 15 residents of the Alamo have new residences arranged. She said the authority has been working to place the remaining two individuals and hopes to have their future resolved shortly. Seven of the residents are set to move into Strainhurst Apartments in the coming weeks said Gurule, with two more potentially moving in there as well. Two residents are also slated to move into units at the Lamar Manor. The remaining residents are slated to move in either with family members or into other complexes said Gurule.

“We’re not just moving people and boxes, we’re moving their lives and they’re getting excited,” said Deano Scranton, an employee of the authority.

Bob Ward, a member of the Adult Protection Team addressed the board members present concerning the ongoing efforts at the Alamo. “My concern is the same as yours, housing for our seniors and disabled folks. I know that in order to provide services you got to make some profit or it’s not going to work,” Ward said.

Betz said options are still open concerning the future development of the property. “Our decision was to move the low income out and then determine what to do with the place,” she said.

The board members present cited the rising costs for maintenance and utilities coupled with lower occupancy rates and lower residents’ rent payments as factors precipitating the closure. Rent at the facility is income based and is generally 30 percent of an individual’s monthly income.

People interested in helping the displaced residents with their relocation, can contact the Lamar Housing Authority at (719) 336-9575. Members of the board also stressed the residents’ need for donations to cover security and damage deposits associated with the transition.

The authority’s board meeting was scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, but couldn’t be opened because there were only two members of the five member board present. Board Chairman Sue Root and board member Eva Betz were in attendance, while board member Debra Smith was absent. The board currently has two openings resulting from resignations in recent weeks. Individuals interested in serving on the board can apply at the city offices.