Brookhaven C.A.R.E.S. Forum Highlights Critical Housing Initiatives

Brookhaven Town Hall was the venue for Brookhaven C.A.R.E.S. Rental Housing Forum, an event highlighting its efforts to address the current affordable housing crisis. Deputy Commissioner of Housing and Community Development Marie M. Michel, alongside Diane Castro, Rental Subsidy Program Coordinator, spearheaded the forum to discuss key housing initiatives and programs. This gathering was particularly significant in highlighting the various housing assistance programs and their accessibility to residents of Brookhaven.

The forum concentrated on the critical issue of income qualifications for various rental subsidy programs. These programs are designed to cater to different community segments, ranging from low, very low, to extremely low-income groups. Deputy Commissioner Michel and Diane Castro provided comprehensive details on these classifications, underscoring the town's commitment to equitable access to housing assistance. The criteria established are essential to ensure that the support reaches those most in need, aligning with Brookhaven's efforts to provide equitable housing solutions.

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An essential aspect of the event was providing landlords with thorough guidelines on participating in the subsidy programs. The criteria, including maintaining HUD-standard housing, fair rent pricing, and the absence of tax liens on properties, are critical in maintaining high standards in the rental market. Furthermore, landlords must not have familial relationships with renters to foster impartiality in housing. These requirements testify to the town's dedication to upholding quality and fairness in the rental housing sector.

A significant portion of the forum was dedicated to discussing the Town of Brookhaven's Plus One Accessory Apartment/Dwelling Unit (A.D.U.) Program. This innovative program, supported by $2 million in grants from the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation, aims to assist homeowners in constructing or renovating A.D.U.s. The program provides up to $125,000 per eligible household, marking a considerable step towards expanding housing options in the community—the eligibility criteria for the A.D.U. Program, including homeownership requirements, principal residence status, and adherence to income limits, were meticulously outlined, providing clear guidance to potential applicants.

The forum was an educational platform for fostering communication between residents and local housing authorities. This engagement makes housing assistance programs more approachable and less daunting for the community.

Residents seeking further information or assistance regarding housing and community development can contact the Brookhaven Department of Housing and Community Development. The department is available by phone at One Independence Hill, Farmingville, 631-451-6600. Residents are encouraged to visit their website, www.brookhavenny.gov/243/Housing-and-Community-Development for a comprehensive overview of services and programs, including detailed information about the discussed housing initiatives.