Seniors press Prescott council for targeted rent assistance and program ideas
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Summary
Multiple speakers at the Dec. 9 public comment period urged the council to address rising rents for seniors in subsidized housing, proposing gap-bridging grants and other targeted supports after presenting unit-level rent increases and affordability calculations.
At the council—s open-call period, multiple residents from the Bradshaw Senior community described rapid rent increases and urged targeted action to prevent displacement.
Debbie Cook (Bradshaw Senior community) gave specific figures showing year-over-year increases and described a monthly gap of about $170 between 40% and 50% income-set-aside units in one-bedroom apartments; she urged the council to consider a small grant program or an "adopt-a-senior" approach to help bridge the gap. "A difference in a 40% and a 50% apartment in a one bedroom was a $170 a month," Cook said. (Debbie Cook)
Catherine Liedtke, also from the Bradshaw senior community, said many seniors are paying 50% or more of their income on rent and warned that owners could convert subsidized properties to market rate, leaving residents with five-year or longer waits for alternative subsidized units. She noted she currently receives a six-month rent grant and faces medical and vehicle expenses that reduce her ability to save.
Council members acknowledged the testimony, and staff indicated petitions and proposals will be directed to appropriate departments for follow-up and possible future agenda items. Council also discussed the broader housing assessment and the need to ensure workforce-focused housing plans address senior needs as well.