Lead Poisoned Children and Foreclosed Homeowners Left Out of Christie Budget
Statewide housing association responds to proposed budget
Washington, D.C. – February 18, 2016 – (RealEstateRama) — Governor Chris Christie delivered his proposed Fiscal Year 2017 State Budget today. On the governor’s proposal, Network President and Chief Executive Officer Staci Berger issued the following statement:
“We heard the governor talk a lot about laying the groundwork for the next generation and a commitment to the most vulnerable. It was disappointing to hear no mention of funding that would protect thousands of young children in NJ who are suffering from and at risk of lead poisoning. He told voters in New Hampshire he would include this in the budget if it was a priority for New Jersey, and more than 100 organizational leaders urged him to follow the law and include these funds in his budget. It is unconscionable, given what we know about this poison, to divert these funds.
“It was a surprise to hear the governor mention growth in the housing market but fail to address our state’s status as the national leader in foreclosure. New Jersey residents, including those still recovering from Superstorm Sandy, need more foreclosure prevention tools and robust policies that help keep people in their homes.
“We were glad to see that the governor identified homeless prevention as a key part of economic vitality. However, this Administration needs to ensure that people can keep the homes they are in. Assistance from the state has been level funded. It is the federal government providing a plan and increased funding to local non-profits that has made a difference but we still have a long way to go.
“As we review the proposed budget, we will continue to urge the governor and legislators to prioritize our hardworking families, senior, and residents living with special needs. That means fully funding the State Rental Assistance Program from general revenue, using the State’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund to create more affordable home opportunities, and dedicating dollars intended for lead prevention to the Lead Hazard Control Assistance Fund.”
About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is the statewide association of more than 250 community development corporations, individuals and other organizations that support the creation of affordable homes, economic opportunities, and strong communities. For more information on the Network, visit www.hcdnnj.org.
For more information: Nina Arce
(609) 393-3752 x1200
Website: hcdnnj.org
Twitter site: twitter.com/hcdnnj
Facebook site: facebook.com/hcdnnj
