The developer of a multifamily apartment complex is looking to construct a second one in Warrenton.

Gardner Capital Inc. approached the Warrenton Board of Aldermen earlier this month seeking an endorsement for a proposed project that will be forwarded later this year to the Missouri Housing Development Commission.

Gardner Capital Inc. developed Hawthorn Village, a 48-unit multifamily complex located off the North Service Road west of Wal-Mart. The new development, if approved, would be built on property just to the east.

Some of the other properties the Springfield-based company owns are located in St. Joseph, Joplin, Excelsior Springs and Reed Springs.

Aldermen voted unanimously at their July 6 meeting to authorize Mayor Greg Costello sign a letter of support for the project.

The type of multifamily complex that is being considered for the application has yet to be finalized, according to Mark Gardner, company president. He told the board his company is seeing more families looking for housing, although one concept that is being considered is a blend of senior- and family-living quarters.

He noted it’s not uncommon for his property manager at Hawthorn Village to field 20 calls in one day. He said past waiting lists were approaching 200 people.

“We feel we have done a pretty good job of taking care of it and making it look nice,” Gardner said. “Warrenton does have a need for more housing. They just aren’t here. The big mystery to me is why.”

The development company plans on applying for low-income housing tax credits through the Missouri Housing Development Commission, of which Warrenton attorney Tim Joyce is a member.

Although a design concept is at least a month from being finalized, Gardner first wanted to get the support of the city.

“If we don’t have support of the community, we won’t have a chance with the housing commission,” he said.

In response, Costello spoke highly of the Hawthorn Village complex and how it is operated.

“I want to be the first to say that you folks have put your money where your mouth is,” he said. “When we point to successful apartments and multifamily developments, this is one to point to. I know the (police department) has felt this project has been better managed than most. I do believe you do a good job of managing these units.”

Other city officials also support the possible future development.

“Like the mayor said, it is referenced a lot on how an apartment complex should be run,” Ward 1 Alderman Phil Tallo said.

Ward 3 Alderman Don Broering added: “I think this community could use a complex like this.”

Should the Housing Commission approve the development, Gardner estimated it would cost somewhere between $6 to $7 million to construct. He prefers to use local contractors, but pointed out that the project would have to be bid out.