Greetings,
I am writing to propose the establishment of a new affordable housing application process specifically designed for retired individuals, survivors, and disabled persons who are Medicare recipients. As we know, this vulnerable population faces unique challenges that often lead to housing instability, homelessness, and a host of related social issues due to its unavailability. By creating a dedicated affordable housing initiative, we can honor the needs of Medicare recipients while adhering to the Housing Act and the definition of Affordable Housing.
Overview of the Proposal - Our proposal aims to incorporate affordable housing units that maintain rental pricing at 30 percent of income or 30 percent of the Fair Market Value of Rent, in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the Housing Act. This approach not only aligns with federal regulations but also ensures that our Medicare recipients can live with dignity and security.
Benefits of Affordable Housing for Medicare Recipients -
1. Alleviation of Homelessness**: By providing affordable housing options, we can significantly reduce the number of Medicare recipients who are at risk of homelessness. Stable housing is a fundamental need that allows individuals to focus on their health and well-being.
2. Reduction of Human Trafficking: Vulnerable populations, including those with disabilities and the elderly, are often targets for human trafficking. By ensuring safe and affordable housing, we can protect these individuals from exploitation.
3. Improvement of Health Outcomes: Access to stable housing has been shown to improve health outcomes. By providing affordable housing, we can help reduce the incidence of disease and promote better overall health among Medicare recipients.
4. Decrease in Suicide Rates: The stress of housing insecurity can lead to increased mental health issues, including depression and suicidal ideation. Affordable housing can provide a sense of stability and community, which is essential for mental well-being.
Implementation Strategy - To implement this proposal, we recommend the following steps:
1. Needs Assessment: Identify the specific housing needs of retired individuals, survivors, and disabled persons on Medicare in our community.
2. Partnership Development: Collaborate with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and healthcare providers to create a network of support for our target population.
3. Funding Opportunities: Explore various funding sources, including federal and state grants, to support the development and maintenance of affordable housing units.
4. Outreach and Education: Develop an outreach program to inform Medicare recipients about the new affordable housing application process and the benefits it offers.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a system for monitoring the effectiveness of the program and making necessary adjustments based on feedback from residents and stakeholders.
Conclusion - The establishment of an affordable housing application process for Medicare recipients is not just a housing issue; it is a matter of social justice and public health. By investing in affordable housing, we can create a safer, healthier, and more equitable community for our retired, survivor, and disabled populations.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this proposal further and explore how we can work together to make this vision a reality. Thank you for considering this important initiative.
Sincerely,
Rosetta S Jackson
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR
The Volusia County School Board should be reprimanded by Volusia taxpayers for its irresponsible actions associated with the purchase of a school site in the City of DeBary. It purchased the first site last year and has now moved to purchase a second site for the same school, both with using Volusia County tax funds.
First, last year after lengthy negotiations and professional evaluations the board purchased a 45+- acre site accessing Highway 17/92 for the DeBary school. The purchase price was near 4.8 million dollars. The site met all DeBary land use standards and regulations. The schools requested and received the City of DeBary council approval for the site prior to the purchase and full payment of the 4.8+- million purchase. Volusia County taxpayer funds were utilized.
Second, now a year later the Volusia County School Board is now purchasing a second site for the same school proposing to again use Volusia County taxpayer funds. This site consists of only 25 acres and the price is near 8.5 million dollars.
This site, contrary to that which has been bought and paid for, is in direct conflict with the City of DeBary growth management regulations. Access would include Shell Road which is a substandard roadway impossible to widen and upgrade.
School traffic of this magnitude would be a disaster to existing property owners and residents It would create a traffic nightmare for the area.
The school board members who voted for this second purchase should be severely criticized. They should be held accountable for the intentional waste of taxpayer money to purchase a site nearly double the cost of the land that has already been bought for the DeBary school. This is not an example of looking out for the responsible interests and use of our tax dollars of we Volusia taxpayers.
The DeBary City Council and city manager are correct in opposing this second purchase and protecting the established city codes and growth management regulations. It is their sacred responsibility to guide responsible development and building for their citizens.
Sid Vihlen, Jr.
Former City of DeBary City Council Member
Current Member & Past Chair of Volusia County Growth Management Commission
