McMINNVILLE, Ore. — State agencies, local leaders, and community members gathered earlier this week to celebrate the opening of Stratus Village, a new 175-unit affordable housing development aimed at expanding access to stable housing and behavioral health support in Yamhill County.
The project, located at 2450 SE Stratus Ave in McMinnville, was developed through a partnership that includes the Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Housing and Community Services, along with local organizations and housing advocates.
Stratus Village includes 10 units designated as Permanent Supportive Housing for individuals experiencing Serious and Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI), reflecting a broader statewide push to integrate housing with behavioral health services.
“Oregon continues to invest in housing as a critical component of behavioral health,” said Ebony Clarke, behavioral health director for OHA. “Stratus Village represents the kind of partnership and forward-thinking approach we need—one that recognizes stable housing as foundational to recovery, dignity and long-term well-being for people living with serious mental health conditions.”
The supportive housing units were partially funded through House Bill 5024, legislation focused on expanding housing options for people experiencing homelessness and those with complex behavioral health needs.
State officials say the development is part of Oregon’s continued effort to address both housing shortages and gaps in mental health services.
“Stratus Village is a demonstration of our commitment to meeting the housing needs of all Oregonians,” said Andrea Bell, executive director of OHCS. “Every person deserves an affordable and dignified life. Increasing service-enriched housing is one of the ways we are delivering housing growth that includes all people and all communities.”
The Housing Authority of Yamhill County, which played a key role in the project, emphasized the importance of affordability for local residents. According to Executive Director Vickie Ybarguen, the development provides housing for individuals and families earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income.
“This development provides decent, safe and affordable housing, and creates opportunities that help community members position themselves for success,” Ybarguen said.
Funding for the project included $2.4 million from OHA through House Bill 5024 and more than $44 million from OHCS through a combination of programs, including the Local Innovation and Fast Track initiative, the Agriculture Workforce Housing Tax Credit Program, and federal 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits.
Officials say Stratus Village is part of a broader statewide strategy to increase housing stability, reduce homelessness, and improve health outcomes. By combining affordable housing with access to supportive services, developments like this are designed to strengthen communities and improve overall quality of life.
The opening marks a significant addition to Yamhill County’s affordable housing supply as demand continues to outpace availability across much of Oregon.
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