Tiny home village operators seek land to build new units amid pushback over new site location

HomesNOW! Not Later, a local nonprofit that operates two tiny home villages for formerly unhoused individuals in Bellingham, is putting out an ask to the community for available land the group can temporarily use as a staging area to build new tiny homes.

The homes are expected to eventually be transferred by the city of Bellingham to the nonprofit’s new North Haven village site in the Birchwood neighborhood, where the nonprofit’s two existing villages, Unity Village and Swift Haven, will be permanently relocated.

“At HomesNOW! Not Later, we’re committed to making a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness, and we need your help to continue this vital work,” the group wrote in a Facebook post on Monday, July 22.

Seeking land and volunteers

The nonprofit is also looking for volunteers to help build the 8-foot by 12-foot tiny homes and begin construction in August.

“Whether you’re handy with tools or just eager to help, your contribution will be invaluable. Let’s come together and make a tangible impact!,” the Facebook post stated.

The goal is to replace the existing 8 feet by 8 feet tiny homes at Swift Haven with the newly constructed 8 feet by 12 feet tiny homes at the new 0.8-acre site at Northwest and Maplewood avenues.

HomesNOW! is also seeking additional land for the original Swift Haven homes.

“We will need a new location for the 8x8 homes once the upgrade is complete. If you can provide land or know of a suitable location, we’d love to hear from you,” the Facebook post states.

New site delays

The nonprofit continues to move forward with the intention of relocating onto the city-owned site despite recent pushback from a nearby business.

North Coast Credit Union appealed the city’s approval to relocate the tiny home villages to the site, claiming it would be adversely impacted by the decision.

“Unfortunately, North Coast Credit Union has appealed the city’s decision regarding the new North Haven site, causing delays. Your support is crucial as we navigate these challenges,” HomesNOW! wrote in its Facebook post.

The city of Bellingham purchased the new site at 3300 Northwest Ave. for $1.2 million and had been looking for a site to relocate the two existing villages, which are operating under temporary permits and must move soon.

Unity Village near the Post Point wastewater treatment plant is in the way of an expansion project, and Swift Haven, at the Geri Fields ball park, is on land bought with state funds specifically designated for recreation.

“We wanted to extend our deepest gratitude to the entire community, our generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and the resilient residents of our villages. Your steadfast support helps us keep moving forward and making progress in our mission to end homelessness,” the Facebook post states.