WHEREAS:

Millions of Americans can no longer afford a decent place to rent and homeownership opportunities are not attainable for millions more; and

WHEREAS:

The number of unsubsidized low income rental units have dropped to 2.8 million from 4.8 million in 1973 — a decline of 41 percent; and

WHEREAS:

One-third of all households with incomes in the $15,000 to $30,000 range, spent at least 30 percent of their incomes for housing in 1989 and approximately three percent spent more than half of their income for housing; and

WHEREAS:

Housing costs for all renter households increased from $324 a month in 1970 to $424 a month in 1990; and

WHEREAS:

In 1989, of the 13 million households with children, 4 million were single-parent families who are less likely to own their home and more likely to bear higher housing costs — 53 percent; and

WHEREAS:

Homeownership opportunities have declined for all households under age 45, the most significant decline has been among young households — 25 years of age and under; and

WHEREAS:

Only 18 percent of households under age 25 were homeowners in 1989, compared to 64 percent of all households; and

WHEREAS:

Funding from the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990 is just beginning reach state arid local governments.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals work with state and local officials, religious groups and community-based organizations in the design, development and implementation of housing rental and ownership programs; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME provide assistance to councils and locals which establish programs that provide housing opportunities to low income rental and potential homebuyers. That AFSCME councils and locals work with state and local elected officials and community-based organizations in the design, development and implementation of housing programs targeted at low income rental and persons seeking homeownership opportunities; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That under the Affordable Housing Act funding should be increased to provide affordable rental opportunities and homeownership monies to young families.

SUBMITTED BY:

Peggy Peacock, Delegate
AFSCME Local 2202, Council 67
Maryland