Residents Express Concerns Over Affordable Housing in Dare County

News Summary

Dare County residents gathered to voice their frustrations regarding the county’s affordable housing initiative, calling for greater transparency and a reevaluation of the partnership with Coastal Affordable Housing LLC. Community leaders expressed strong discontent with the proposed project, urging for a halt and a change in direction to better meet local housing needs. The commissioners ultimately voted to cease the current project, opening the door for new strategies to tackle the ongoing housing crisis.

Community Voices Discontent in Dare County Over Affordable Housing Issues

Residents of Dare County have made their feelings clear in a recent specially called meeting regarding the much-discussed affordable housing initiative. Approximately 30 community members gathered to express their concerns, showcasing a growing wave of frustration towards the county’s partnership with Coastal Affordable Housing LLC. As the crowd voiced their criticisms, a few key themes emerged: a strong demand for transparency in government dealings and a call for a reevaluation of the appointed developers on the project.

Echoes of Concern: Citizens Demand Answers

The community meeting kicked off with 30 speakers lined up, eager to share their thoughts on what they perceive as a pressing issue in their local housing market. Citizens raised questions about the perceived lack of transparency from the county officials and the developers involved in the housing partnership. Many voiced their desire to sever ties with Coastal Affordable Housing LLC, who they believe may not have the county’s best interests in mind.

Cynthia Holda, representing the Manns Harbor Civic Association, stirred the room when she recommended the county return the $35 million in state funding, deeming it unsuitable for their community’s needs. This sentiment resonated with many attendees, especially those who feel that the affordable housing project isn’t matching the unique characteristics of Dare County.

Legislative Concerns Trigger Conflicts

As the conversation continued, fingers were pointed at legislation enacted by Jordan Hennessey, which several residents felt stripped local municipalities of necessary housing regulations. Josh Caffee from Manteo brought up concerns over potential conflicts of interest regarding Hennessey’s involvement, which only served to heighten the room’s tension and uncertainty about the project going forward.

Attendees like Aida Havel, a divorce attorney from Salvo, likened the affordable housing endeavor to a “bad agreement baby”. Many locals voiced their dissatisfaction with the projected delivery of only 300 to 400 housing units, arguing it falls short of the demand in the area.

County Officials React to Pushback

Dare County Manager Robert L. Outten addressed the gathering, emphasizing that the county lacks the ability to tackle the housing shortage independently. He shared insights on previous attempts to attract developers for affordable housing, which have largely met with disappointment. Outten indicated that the county has set aside $12 million for subsidies through the Development Finance Initiative to entice developers, without much success thus far.

Commissioner Ervin Bateman disclosed the recent unexpected availability of state funding for affordable housing, worth $35 million. However, he stressed that this funding comes with strings attached, making the future of the housing project seem even more complicated.

The audience’s disappointment was echoed as they watched the fate of two developers unfold—Woda Cooper, awarded a $12 million project on Bowsertown Road, faced significant opposition, while the planned project in Nags Head was halted indefinitely. Outten explained how federal regulation has muddled the process, adding to the growing tension felt by all parties involved.

Time for Change: Unanimous Decisions Made

In light of ongoing frustrations, the commissioners came together to vote unanimously to cease the current housing project. Empowering the county manager to unwind the partnership reflects a decisive step towards a change of direction in handling the affordable housing crisis.

The community is buzzing with new ideas. Suggestions have emerged for more community-focused initiatives that could address the housing gap effectively. From urging local businesses to provide housing solutions, to collaborating with non-profits, residents are brainstorming ways to create sustainable housing practices.

Additionally, proposals have been made to explore land purchases in surrounding counties and to revisit zoning ordinances that could pave the way for more affordable housing development. Despite the enthusiasm surrounding these suggestions, the reality remains that the sentiment of many residents still leans toward a NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) perspective, creating a complex landscape for future initiatives.

A Ongoing Battle for Housing

The meeting closed with discussions focused on the next steps for the Housing Task Force, but the road ahead seems fraught with challenges. As the Dare County community grapples with its complex housing situation, the need for open communication and genuine partnership with its residents is more crucial than ever. The future of affordable housing in Dare County holds many uncertainties, but the community is ready to continue the conversation—and potential solutions—moving forward.

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Additional Resources

• WRAL: Durham Legislator’s Bill for Affordable Housing
• WTKR: Dare County Task Force on Housing Challenges
• The Coastland Times: Housing Issues in Dare County
• News Observer: Politics and Housing in Dare County
• WTKR: Teachers Housing Model in Dare County