St. Luke’s McCall workforce housing project taking shape to address key issue

A project addressing one of St. Luke’s McCall’s most pressing challenges, affordable housing for health care professionals, is hitting a key milestone.

St. Luke’s McCall Foundation donors and members of the McCall Memorial Hospital District board recently visited the site to witness progress as modular units for a fourplex were set in place. Modular construction was chosen for its cost-effectiveness, efficiency and proven performance in winter climates like McCall.

“We’re excited to see the first unit being built and thrilled that four St. Luke’s McCall families will soon have a new home this spring,” said Jenny Ruemmele, executive director of the St. Luke’s McCall Foundation.

The units are expected to be ready for occupancy by spring 2026, providing St. Luke’s McCall employees with a stable and affordable housing option.

This initiative stems from a unique public-private partnership between the St. Luke’s McCall Foundation and the McCall Memorial Hospital District. Both recognize the challenges St. Luke’s McCall faces in retaining and recruiting employees due to the region’s high housing costs, whether purchasing or renting a home.

Work began earlier this year on the 4.8-acre parcel off Mission Street in McCall after receiving approval and building permits from the City of McCall. Over the summer, the first phase of infrastructure was completed, including power, water, sewer, roads and the foundation for the initial fourplex.

The development, approved for 38 units in total, will feature a mix of two- and three-bedroom townhomes built in phases as funding becomes available. This long-term solution reflects a shared vision — creating sustainable housing that strengthens the health care workforce and, ultimately, the quality of care in McCall.

“The project prioritizes building new housing rather than repurposing existing homes, adding much-needed inventory to the local market,” Ruemmele said.

Rent will be set at 30% of an employee’s household income or market rate, depending on which is less, ensuring affordability for employees. The Foundation and Hospital District remain committed to supporting St. Luke’s McCall in delivering quality health care services to meet community needs — starting with the caregivers who provide those services.