There are committees for everything these days. They are all well-intentioned, I’m sure, but I’ve yet to see many that really get the job done.
Such is the sad case with the folks who make up the Dixie Area Workforce Housing Affordability Committee, which is supposed to find ways to provide affordable housing for our local workforce.
They meet, they talk pie-in-the-sky but nothing gets done. They’ve based the price for affordable housing at least $75,000 more than what the average wage-earner can afford and their plans look too far into the future instead of searching for solutions to help those who live here now. Then, our economic development people complain because there’s no sizable workforce.
Having just been in the housing market, I know the realities. You are not going to find a reasonable market — I’m talking quality, quantity and price — for entry- or even mid-level housing. Adding to the challenge is the fact that I don’t come from a family with deep roots and extensive property holdings here or a family with money. I had to go it alone.
And, the rental scene is frightening. First, there’s the attitude among many that renters are “undesirables” who tarnish our neighborhoods and quality of life. Then there are those who insist tenants abide by certain cultural standards — even though this is illegal. Then there are the absentee owners who promise the moon, but break their end of the bargain early on by not making proper repairs or holding up their end on maintenance. And, finally, have you seen some of the “affordable” rentals around here?
Wake up, DAWHAC, we need answers now before all of our kids end up so frustrated they move out of state to find jobs that pay well and homes they can afford.
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