On Wednesday, May 20, the Kalihi-Palama Neighborhood Board hosted its regular meeting, where the rapidly approaching expiration of affordable housing covenants was discussed. Most people aren’t aware that affordable housing can expire, let alone how many people it affects in Hawaii.
Well here are the facts: In 2030, more than 300,000 units in the U.S. will lose their affordability status. This means those property owners are legally able to flip those properties to fair market value. If we calculate that the average unit shelters approximately four individuals, we are talking more than 1.2 million people out on the streets.
In Hawaii House District 30 alone, some 1,460 units are at risk, or approximately 5,840 persons.
On July 15, the Kalihi-Palama Neighborhood Board will meet again at Kapalama Hale, room 153 at 6 p.m. Using an old urban phrase: Be there or be square.
P.M. Azinga
Kakaako
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