Housing bond would facilitate aging in place
Voters are now deciding the fate of the city’s proposed 2022-2027 bond program. AARP Texas endorses Proposition F and encourages a vote “for” the proposition, which allocates $150 million to affordable housing initiatives. Here’s why AARP Texas endorses Proposition F:
The community has identified affordable housing assistance as a priority for our most vulnerable populations, especially those 50 and older. The city’s 2021 Strategic Housing Implementation Plan, or SHIP, the basis for the city’s affordable housing policies, notes we have high homeownership rates, even in low-income neighborhoods.
These dwellings, however, often need expensive repairs and maintenance beyond an owner’s financial reach. Costburdened homeowners may face other challenges, too, such as age or disability, further complicating their circumstances. The SHIP is focused on ensuring individuals with the lowest incomes have affordable housing choices.
The 2017 Age-friendly San Antonio Plan, jointly sponsored by AARP Texas, the World
Health Organization and the city of San Antonio, also cited the need for expanding housing choices, and called for an affordable housing bond and an increased commitment to the housing needs of those 50 and older.
AARP Texas views Proposition F as the opportunity to bring this community vision for expanded affordable housing to fruition. If passed, it would promote aging in place by funding home rehabilitation and preservation, and by increasing the stock of affordable housing.
An important consideration for our endorsement is the city’s assurance that the bond’s passage will not result in a property tax increase. We support the city’s balanced approach for funding affordable housing while ensuring we do not face increased property taxes.
AARP was formed to empower people to choose how they live as they age. Proposition F can give residents and their families the choice to stay in their homes and communities as they age. It will also preserve and increase affordable housing inventory so more San Antonians, whether homeowners or renters, can exercise choice in where and how they live.
If we have ever taken for granted the importance of living in a safe and decent place, then surely the pandemic and the February 2021 winter storm were vivid reminders of how critical our homes are for our physical and mental well-being. During these times, our dwellings have provided us with classrooms, work-from-home spaces, isolated sick rooms and, simply, shelter from an uncertain world.
Housing impacts our ability to thrive, to feel safe and to connect with neighbors. Vote “For” Proposition F so older San Antonians can age in place with dignity and peace of mind, knowing their home is safe, secure and affordable.