Velázquez Urges NYCHA Not to Make Up for Funding Shortfalls on the Backs of Residents

Velázquez Urges NYCHA Not to Make Up for Funding Shortfalls on the Backs of Residents

NEW YORK - Facing a $168 million shortfall in funding, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has proposed drastic fee increases to residents for services and maintenance. Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-N.Y.), the sole Member of the New York State Congressional delegation serving on the Subcommittee on Housing and Community Opportunity, urged NYCHA to reconsider the increases, taking into consideration the dire impact it could have on the already tight budgets of residents.

"With skyrocketing energy costs, a tight labor market and decreased federal support for important social service programs, low-income families throughout the City are struggling to make ends meet. NYCHA must not further burden these already strained families by imposing exorbitant fee increases," Congresswoman Velázquez said.

In a letter to NYCHA, Congresswoman Velázquez expressed concern with the process by which NYCHA has implemented the fee increase, citing concerns about the lack of language-appropriate outreach to tenants, as well as the sudden increases, some of which are double or nearly triple the current cost of services. She also urged NYCHA to hold a public hearing regarding the increases, as is required by law, and encouraged them to consider exemptions for elderly and disabled residents.

"Many residents live on fixed-incomes and are not prepared to take on an unexpected expense such as those associated with maintaining the safety and proper functioning of their apartments. Congresswoman Velázquez said. She further stated that residents should not be, "held liable for everyday wear and tear of their apartments."

http://www.house.gov/velazquez/PressReleases/2006/pr032306.htm