Support HB 3054

Due to the affordable housing problem in our area, people should be aware that there is a bill, HB 3054, in the state Legislature that will help to prevent homelessness among the senior population by stabilizing rent increase for seniors by linking the increase to the increase in their Social Cecurity.

Yesterday, I received notice of the annual increase in my monthly space rent of $45. I am a senior on a very limited income. I own my home in a manufactured home community of seniors in Phoenix. In 2019 when I purchased my home, built in 1989, the space rent was a very manageable $565. My space rent starting this May will now be $775.

I am well aware of the housing shortage in Oregon and am very concerned about my inability to even afford an apartment should I be evicted from my home because I can no longer pay the rent increases. Many of my senior friends are in this same position financially. Due to health issues I am no longer able to work. My small vegetable garden provides me with fresh food in the summer, but during the winter I find it very difficult to purchase food and am taking advantage of the commodity program for seniors.

I believe that our community is not the only one in Oregon experiencing these issues. Anyone wishing to help seniors stay in their homes can write to their Oregon Representative urging a favorable vote for HB 3054.

Nanette Heidtman / Phoenix

HB 3054 needs support

My name is Lynn Davidson, an owner of a manufactured home in Phoenix.

I’m writing in support of HB 3054. Before I delve into that, I’d like to tell you a little bit about my husband and my experiences over the past 20 years.

August 2005: My husband, Jim, was diagnosed with cancer. We sold our home in Puyallup, Wash., and relocated to Chehalis, Wash.

Dec. 3, 2007: The Chehalis river floods! We lose everything.

August 2008: Jim and I decide to rebuild since we own the property with a plan to sell ASAP. Our home is completed in August. In November 2008, the real estate market tumbles and we’re upside down in our new home and are unable to sell and recoup our losses.

March 2009: Jim has a recurrence of cancer and passes in June 2012.

December 2012: I walk away from my home, declare bankruptcy and move to Southern Oregon where I grew up. I had enough money to purchase a manufactured home. I moved into my new home, Dec.15. The rent, at that time, was $465 per month.

TODAY 2025: My rent is $730.

When I purchased my home, I thought it was the right decision and would give me a secure future. But is it? Really?

I’m a widow whose financial future was wiped out by a disaster and bankruptcy. My income is dependent on Social Security; and yes, when I go someplace, I see the homeless people and think, “But for the grace of God there go I.” That’s not just a passing thought. I have no family, no siblings, children, etc. I’m 80 years old and live with MS. I must ask, “What am I to do when the rent increases so much that I cannot pay it?”

What am I and all the other people in this situation to do? I’m writing this letter so the people of Oregon can be made aware of what many older people are facing. We need to allocate rent increases corresponding to or closer to the Federal COLA increase. Please contact your Oregon State Representative in support of HB 3054.

Lynn Davidson / Phoenix

 

Editor’s note: HB 3054 is sponsored by state Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, state Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland, and other Oregon lawmakers.