Housing Committee

The Committee believes that one of the keys to preserving the unique character, culture and economic vitality of our community is to ensure that it welcomes and supports a diverse population, representating every income level.  Toward that goal, the Affordable Housing Committee is committed to preserving and increasing opportunities for low and middle-income individuals, couples and families to make Hillsdale their permanent home.　
 
Programs and Activities.  Housing Committee Membership

Ellen Levy, Chair. Email:  mandelevy [mandelevy #AT# yahoo.com]
Shirley Bresler
Joe Browdy
Joyce Lapenn
Maureen Rodgers
Frank Upham
Joan Wallstein

1. Establish a baseline against which to measure the need for affordable housing, including:

a.  A statistical survey of the current population in terms of annual income;

b.  A statistical inventory of the current rental stock, including monthly rental charges, in the community;

c.  A statistical survey of the market valuation of the current housing stock.　

2.  Explore successful examples of affordable housing activities in surrounding communities.　

3.  Raise awareness among, and enlist the support of, key community interest groups about the need for affordable housing. Those groups include:

a.  Hillsdale residents, homeowners and renters, permanent residents and weekenders

b.  Elected officials

c.  Real estate professionals and organizations

d.  Church leaders

e.  Social service organizations 　

4. Enlist allies and partners within the community in order to create support for future affordable housing programs and projects

5. Recommend changes to the current zoning ordinances and other local or State rules, if necessary, to facilitate the preservation of existing, and the creation of additional, affordable housing within the Town.　

6. Develop a mechanism to communicate with all key constituencies about the work of the Committee.