BEDFORD – Like most communities across the United States Bedford is facing an issue of affordable housing.
During their regular Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday, Bobbi Ames, director of Bedford Housing Authority updated the commissioners on the number of those waiting for housing in Bedford.
So, far in the month of June a total of 35 families are trying find a place to live.
“Like other communities, we need to have more affordable apartments and landlord participation,” said Ames when asked by WBIW following the meeting on a solution to the housing crisis locally.
“We already do background checks, there are rules to follow, and if the renters do not follow those rules there are consequences,” Ames continued. “So most of the leg work is done, by us, which gives the landlord an incentive to participate in the Section 8 program.”
The housing crisis means families must pay more for housing, renters have less to get by at the end of the month, and now home ownership is out of reach.
Ames will continue to keep the board updated on the waiting list at each regular scheduled meeting.
In other business:
- Landscaping and outside improvements continue at both the Hauck House and Hamilton Court apartments
- Spartan is about to complete the gas meter upgrades at Hamilton Court
- The Board of Commissioner approved a resolution to purchase a certificate of deposit for cash reserves for the housing fund. Bedford Housing Authority financial conditions have improved over the last three years
- The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution requiring those who have no work and are in public housing to participate in community service for eight hours a month. Residents on Social Security and disability are exempt. This is a long-standing policy required by Housing and Urban Development.
- A resolution in regards to voucher re-examinations was also approved. Annually any changes with the status of the client are updated.
- The director advised that inspections of the facility went well with above average results and the regular fire drills are going well.
