The Arlington County Board will hear testimony on Saturday, Sept. 19 on a proposal affordable housing plan. Greens who have been longtime promoters of more and better affordable housing programs have provided their position below and asked for major changes to the plan.

To: The Arlington County Board September 10, 2015

2100 Clarendon Blvd #3 Arlington, VA 22201

Dear County Board Chairperson, Mary Hynes:

The members of the Arlington Green Party want to thank you and your staff for your tireless leadership on the Affordable Housing Master Plan, Implementation Framework and General Land Use Plan. It is heartening that the Board is addressing the shortage of affordable units and dilemmas facing the aged, the poor and those who are struggling in this very competitive and expensive rental-housing market.

Our members look to be part of this collaborative process and have met with members of your staff numerous times to offer ideas that could help you reach Arlington County’s affordable housing goals. At the same time, we do feel that there are many ideas you and your staff have proposed that are quite innovative and forward-thinking, especially the idea of accessory dwellings and geographic distribution of affordable units.

The Arlington Greens have always believed and stated publicly that numerous Affordable Housing providers should have to bid on all such projects so that the County can have the best possible housing experience at the best value to the Arlington County tax payer. We are extremely encouraged that this principle will be part of the creation of new housing projects. Arlington County is a marvelous place and its residents deserve the best at the best value.

Our members wish to also thank you for your insight and your staff’s willingness to look the Affordable Housing Master Plan, Implementation and Framework and General Land Use Plan holistically with regards to schools and services. This conversation will make possible pluralistic and well thought out smart-growth. Your thinking will further Arlington’s success in schools and community inclusion, as well as in life quality.

Please take a moment to view the enclosed attachment and view additional ideas the Arlington Green Party has put forth. You will note that The Greens have included some cost-savings measures. Thank you again for your time.

Sincerely,

The Arlington Green Party
Co-Chair Sandra Hernandez
Co-Chair Marie Pellegrino
Treasurer John Reeder
Miriam Gennari
Steve Davis