Geneva City Council is considering the sale of two city-owned properties to developers proposing new housing projects, with discussions set to continue at the March 5 council meeting.
At a work session this week, the council reviewed proposals from Cook Properties and Home Leasing, both seeking to acquire land to develop residential communities. Cook Properties has its sights on a parcel on Middle Street, while Home Leasing aims to build housing on the former foundry site on Jackson Street.
Foundry site: Workforce housing with a sustainable focus
Home Leasing, a mission-driven housing developer, is proposing a multifamily residential building on the Jackson Street site that would bring approximately 60 units to downtown Geneva. The company, which specializes in affordable and workforce housing, highlighted a design focused on sustainability and energy efficiency.
According to presentation materials, the project would feature 100% electric systems, buildings at least 25% more efficient than code requirements, and a certification under either “Net Zero Ready” or “Enterprise Green Communities” standards. The vision includes dynamic building elevations, individual balconies, a ground-floor community room, centralized laundry facilities, and bicycle storage. The company also emphasized accessibility, with accommodations for residents with mobility, hearing, and visual impairments.
Affordability was a key focus of the proposal, with rents targeted at a range of income levels. Based on 2024 HUD income limits, the development would offer units affordable to households earning between 30% and 100% of the area’s median income, making it accessible to many local workers, including teachers, firefighters, and healthcare professionals. Home Leasing stated that the development would generate between $25,000 and $30,000 annually in new property tax revenue for the city.
Middle Street: Manufactured housing as a solution to affordability
Cook Properties, the largest owner and operator of manufactured housing communities in New York State, is proposing a development on Middle Street that would introduce modern manufactured homes as an affordable alternative to traditional housing.
The company’s presentation outlined the benefits of manufactured housing, citing the ongoing national housing shortage and rising home prices. Cook Properties argues that manufactured homes provide an attainable path to homeownership at a lower cost than site-built homes while still offering high-end finishes, vaulted ceilings, porches, and state-of-the-art amenities.
The company emphasized that manufactured homes can be built in a fraction of the time of conventional homes—often within six to eight weeks—while also avoiding delays caused by labor shortages and supply chain disruptions. The homes would blend into the surrounding neighborhood and offer private yards, door-side parking, and a strong sense of community, Cook Properties stated.
Next steps and public input
For either project to move forward, the city would first need to approve the sale of the properties. If the sales are authorized, developers would be required to comply with Geneva’s updated zoning ordinances, which were revised in 2024. The city would then draft contracts with the developers to formalize the agreements.
The upcoming March 5 City Council meeting will include a public hearing on the potential sale of the properties, as well as a decision on designating a preferred developer for a separate site on Exchange Street. The council will also consider the transfer of a parcel on Crystal Street to Habitat for Humanity.
While both proposals are still in conceptual stages, city officials stressed that Home Leasing, in particular, has committed to engaging with the community to refine its plans should its bid be accepted.
With the city’s ongoing housing needs in focus, the decisions made in the coming weeks could shape Geneva’s residential landscape for years to come.
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