the grand opening of the 32-unit Valleyview Estates in Branson West was held June 6 before a large group of local, county and state officials June 6.

The Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation and Carlson Gardner Woodman Properties, Inc., worked cooperatively in building the 32-unit multifamily complex, according to Stone County Presiding Commissioner Tony DeLong.

"The apartments rented up overnight, which gives an idea of the pent-up demand for affordable housing in Stone County," said Tom Carlson, owner and partner in Carlson Gardner Woodman, and a Springfield City Council member. Since its completion in late March, 30 families have been put on a waiting list.

Carlson’s company was awarded tax credits through the Missouri Housing Development Commission for identifying the project, building it and managing it for the next 15 years. The development is a 32-unit family development that is being financed with a $500,000 HOME loan and $174,256 in federal and state tax credits.