To Whom It May Concern,

We, the undersigned, call upon our local government and policymakers to prioritize and address the pressing issue of affordable housing within our community. Access to safe, stable, and affordable housing is a fundamental right and a cornerstone of economic stability and social equity. Yet, many individuals and families are struggling to find housing that is both affordable and adequate.

"True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar. It comes to see that an edifice which produces beggars needs restructuring." -MLK

Ensuring basic safety and health should be our priority. The most effective short-term solution to ending homelessness is shelter and access to supportive services to lead someone on a path to becoming stably housed.

Affordable housing DOES NOT:

1. Drive down property values
2. Increase crime
3. Lower standard of living
4. Increase traffic

Affordable housing DOES:

1. Increase local spending
2. Create fewer evictions
3. Create financial stability
4. Improve job opportunities
5. Reduce overcrowding
6. Improve property values
7. Lower crime rates

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, in Texas, a full-time worker must earn $20.29 per hour to afford rental housing, including utilities [National Low Income Housing Coalition]. On the other hand, the minimum wage in Texas is just $7.25, less than half that required for a decent accommodation. This discrepancy is glaring and necessitates the need for affordable housing projects.

For more information on the project:

https://cityrepchriscanales.com/home-south-mesa-hills