Housing

Candidates Clash Over Housing Solutions and City Spending at Ithaca’s Fifth Ward Forum

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ITHACA, N.Y. — A recent community forum at the Greater Ithaca Activities Center provided an interactive platform for candidates vying for the Fifth Ward Common Council seat. Hannah Shvets, George Zurenda, and Deborah Fisher engaged in a lively discussion on pressing local issues, with a focus on housing affordability and city spending. Hannah Shvets, a Cornell University student and Ithaca native, emphasized her commitment to tackling the housing affordability crisis she believes is driving residents out of the city. She called for increased density in housing development to bolster the local tax base, which could … Read more

Local Advocates Detained Amid Controversial New State Law Expanding Housing Access for Immigrants

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Montpelier, Vt. — A new state law aimed at improving housing access for immigrants has been overshadowed by the recent detention of two advocates in Vermont. This incident has raised concerns among community members and activists about the potential repercussions of the legislation. The law, designed to enhance housing opportunities for immigrants, was introduced amid ongoing debates about immigration policy and housing shortages. Supporters argue that it is a critical step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable housing landscape. They believe that everyone, regardless of their immigration status, should have access to safe and … Read more

Governor Lombardo Strikes a Balance: $15 Million for Eviction Relief and $133 Million for Affordable Housing in New Legislative Push

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Las Vegas, Nev. — Governor Joe Lombardo has recently signed several bills during Nevada’s 83rd legislative session aimed at addressing housing and homelessness challenges in the state, particularly in Clark County. Among the approved legislation is Assembly Bill 475, which allocates $15 million for eviction diversion programs specifically in Clark County. This initiative is designed to assist vulnerable families struggling with housing insecurity. Diane Rohan, a local mother who faced potential eviction, highlighted the emotional turmoil such situations bring. Thanks to the court-supported program, her family was able to avoid becoming homeless. Assembly member Erica … Read more

UC Santa Cruz’s Ambitious Expansion Plans Stall Amid Legal Dispute Over Housing and Environmental Concerns

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Santa Cruz, California — The University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with local governmental bodies over a proposed significant expansion plan. A ruling by Judge Timothy Schmal determined that UCSC’s Long Range Development Plan (LRDP), which aims to increase student enrollment by 8,500 by 2040, inadequately addressed potential housing shortages and environmental issues resulting from this growth. The prolonged legal standoff has left the situation in limbo for over eight months. Following the October ruling, the university filed an appeal in December. Judge Schmal’s order mandated that the … Read more