Taunton City Councilor Estelle Borges advocates for manufactured housing legislation

Seniors in Massachusetts are facing a housing crisis, and local leaders are calling for urgent legislative action. During a recent meeting of the Joint Committee on Housing, Taunton City Councilor Estelle Borges passionately advocated for three key bills aimed at improving conditions for manufactured home residents.

Borges highlighted the struggles of over 2,000 residents in Greater Taunton, who are grappling with skyrocketing insurance premiums, outdated infrastructure, and exorbitant park fees. "Too many are forced to choose between purchasing the prescriptions they need or paying housing fees," she stated, emphasizing the critical link between housing stability and health, particularly for seniors on fixed incomes.

The proposed legislation seeks to modernize and strengthen laws originally established over three decades ago, which aimed to empower manufactured home residents. Borges thanked committee chairs and state officials for their ongoing efforts to address these pressing issues, noting that the time for legislative reform is now.

As discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that basic needs for shelter and health are met for vulnerable populations across the state. The outcome of these bills could significantly impact the lives of many seniors and low-income families in Massachusetts.