Sussex locals offer input to achieve affordable housing
GEORGETOWN, Del. – Sussex County residents got their chance to talk directly with those at the head of a new affordable housing study, and a wide range of topics were up for discussion.
As of now, three in ten households are cost-burdened, meaning more than thirty percent of their income goes toward housing.
“We know from research and experience that when you have too little left over for other things, you spend less on food, you spend less on transportation and you’re at risk of sort of losing your house,” said Lisa Sturtevant, a hired consultant for Sussex County.
Another dilemma facing Delaware’s Business Partner is the lack of affordable housing across the income spectrum. With manufactured home numbers on the decline, and new housing tending to cost higher amounts, it leaves many with little choice.
“Nurses or teachers or restaurant workers can’t find housing they can afford, they’re going to leave. And then that means that the community ends up suffering,” said Sturtevant.
Tuesday, residents had their opportunity to present ideas for how to make housing more affordable and they stressed the need to mix different levels of income housing in new developments.
During the forum it was said if developers do not cooperate there needs to be a concerted effort to get more affordable housing near jobs in municipalities.
Others question why there isn’t more zoning for smaller living spaces.
“In order to make housing more affordable, we have to create smaller living spaces with more density, maybe even go higher,” said Georgetown resident Jim Martin.
Homelessness was also discussed, and one man stood with a plan to create a register for those without homes, and to change the way they transition into homeownership.
The results of this study are scheduled to be handed to the County Council in September. The results of this study would be the basis for new or modified ordinances, programs or county initiatives.
If you missed the forum Tuesday evening, you can contact Brandy Nauman at the Sussex County Community Development and Housing office at 302-855-7777, or visit here.
