Buy Now - part IV

More on the impact on LA's housing crunch as it impacts people in Boyle Heights. With 75% of Boyle Heights being renters, the dilema between reporting illegal living conditions and maintaining "affordable" housing is a challenge.

"...with a median income of $22,652, housing is a source of community tension. One-third of the population lives below the poverty line, and the competition for affordable living space is keen."

One family that reported problems with their landlord's maintenance experienced the following problem:

"The home was filled with code violations, but the entire apartment was illegal. The tenants would have to leave. "Now we don't know where to go," said Lopez, who has lived in the Mott Street home for seven years. Where else can they live for $350 a month?"

On the otherside of the equation,

"...housing officials say, is that the rules are clear and apply to everyone. Landlords have 60 days to bring their property up to code or pay to relocate tenants. Some extensions are granted. Families receive $3,000 for relocation, senior citizens $8,000."

No easy solutions, though it reminds me of a statement from President Bush recently in regards to similar topic: immigration.

"...people should not have to choose between a welcoming society and a lawful one."

I think residents in Boyle Heights shouldn't have to choose either.

READ - "Buy Now" part V
Or parts I, and II, and III