Hud.gov on "so-called privatization of public housing."

[Cha]

"I also know that some worry about the so-called “privatization” of public housing, the risk that leveraging private debt may cause these properties to fall into foreclosure or the potential for tenants to lose their rights during this process. So, let me take a moment to address these concerns.

First and foremost, I am absolutely committed to preserving these precious resources, period. That is why TRA maintains targeting and affordability requirements for the lowest income families. That’s why it prioritizes rehabilitation not demolition, and insists on strict one-for-one replacement.

Supported by our Choice Neighborhoods proposal to make the redevelopment of distressed public and assisted housing the anchor of broader community development efforts, we are absolutely committed to reversing the loss of units we’ve seen over the last 15 years.

Along the same lines, HUD’s new Strategic Plan commits us to reducing homelessness and “worst case” housing needs over the next 5 years. To ensure we do not tackle this challenge alone, in May, President Obama will unveil the nation’s first ever comprehensive federal strategy to end homelessness.

I expect to be held accountable for HUD’s performance -- and for keeping this commitment.

Secondly, the changes we’re proposing aren’t about who owns public and assisted housing -- but how it’s funded. For years, we’ve seen public sector owners dropping out for the simple reason that programs that fund private ownership are more sustainable. By allowing public owners to access the capital and resources private owners can today, we’re leveling the playing field to make the preservation of publicly-owned housing possible."

<much more>
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/speeches_remarks_statements/2010/Speech_03082010

[SeattleGirl]

1. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Cha!

I just hid the "sky is falling" thread in GD on this.

There is always, as they say, the rest of the story. But sometimes people see only one piece of it, and then they and many others run with it, and the next thing you know, there's a full-blown panic or people are calling for someone's head.

Me, I like to get as many facts as possible before making up my mind about something.

[Cha]

12. Yes, that's why I went searching for

facts, SG.~

[OneGrassRoot]

20. + a gazillion. Much appreciated! :) n/t

[sandnsea]

2. Also, National Housing Trust

This was just passed in the last year or so, a long time project of Senator Kerry's. I don't know how it figures into the latest hysteria, but I suspect these are new programs to address old problems. I also know that transitioning massive public housing units to mixed use has been a goal since Clinton. I didn't know, but they forced people into those units back in the 60s. If you didn't go, you lost your welfare assistance. If they're still doing that in cities, well then that's more reason to support change. They don't force you into public housing out here. Most people would prefer new money go straight to vouchers to help people pay their rent.

http://www.nhtinc.org/

And I will definitely be excited to hear the strategy to end homelessness. A friend of mine will be beside herself. She's got a project going but I haven't had time to sit down with her and go through all the details. I will send her this link. Thank You!!

[Cha]

7. Thank you for your link,

sandnsea!

And yeah, this would be a much better way to go..

"They don't force you into public housing out here. Most people would prefer new money go straight to vouchers to help people pay their rent."

[FrenchieCat]

3. It must be difficult on the folks trying so hard to see the worse and to believe

the worse about this administration.

Mr. Lakoff should stick to discussions on language and how it should be used.....

[Cha]

8. I agree..Mr Lakoff should stick to what

he does best..there's enough disingenuous Fearmongers on the internet and the air waves.

[CBR]

4. I used to do management work for a HUD contractor....

in the ARRA, the administration passed the HPRP (Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Program). This is direct assistance to persons homeless or at-risk of homelessness (30% or below AMI). The fund can cover arrears, utility, rent, moving, credit, legal expenses etc... IT is a great program and is administered by local or state governments through non-profit subgrantees. This is for renters only. This is an amazing and much needed program that practitioners have been asking for for years. Never hear about these types on programs on DU. I try to mention it where appropriate.

Link: http://www.hudhre.info/HPRP/

With the new HEARTH Act, the administration is also expanding the definition of homelessness and chronic homelessness (another thing practitioners have been asking for). In addition, they are creating the Rural Housing Stability Program.

Link: http://www.hudhre.info/hearth/


In addition, the Neighborhood Stabilization Act.

Link: http://hudnsphelp.info/index.cfm

[Cha]

9. I so appreciate this CBR!

That Rural Housing Stabiltiy Program looks interesting. All beneficial for those who can't afford to live in a house or apartment on their own.

[quiet.american]

18. That is awesome info -- thank you! nt

[grantcart]

5. Generally speaking when someone starts a thread with WTF? Obama is . . .

You know that the poster is cherry picking facts and taking something out of context.

They should just start a WTFGD where posters can take issues and trivialize them by taking bits and pieces of information and not fairly presenting the issue in context.

Thanks for the context.


This of course is the 'money' shot:





Along the same lines, HUD’s new Strategic Plan commits us to reducing homelessness and “worst case” housing needs over the next 5 years. To ensure we do not tackle this challenge alone, in May, President Obama will unveil the nation’s first ever comprehensive federal strategy to end homelessness



When it comes out what will all of the WTF posters do - rescind, apologize be contrite?

No they will be on to the next WTF outrage.

[Cha]

10. Yes, the money quote is super encouraging..

I'm glad I went looking for what HUD had to say about this and not depend on internet chatter.

[treestar]

6. I knew there was something wrong in that thread

that they were taking something out of context. They always do it.

[Cha]

11. Pretty much guaranteed..

historically speaking.

[watrwefitinfor]

13. Kicking - too late to Rec

[Cha]

15. Thanks and btw..you can't

"Rec" in the BOG..:)

[liberalla]

14. Kick for good info - Thanks much!

...not the other drivel people seem to prefer to read and write. :banghead:

[Cha]

16. It's excellent and so important to so

many people who will benefit from this.

[quiet.american]

17. Wow -- "President Obama will unveil first ever comprehensive federal strategy to end homelessness."

GOBAMA! :applause: :kick:

[Cha]

19. That's going to be Very

Interesting! You know he and all in his Admin would love to do it!

:hi:QA~