Affordable housing was a key topic at a recent Wilmington City Council Candidates forum, where only four out of seven candidates showed up. Incumbent Councilman Vincent White discussed his solution for more affordable housing, suggesting changes to zoning, building more housing, and bringing in subsidies. Challenger Coby Owens emphasized the importance of making housing truly affordable for residents with a median income of $36,000. Both candidates agreed that the city needs to do more to provide affordable housing, including rental units.
The issue of homelessness was also discussed, with White and Owens advocating for more beds for the homeless and working with nonprofits to provide necessary services. White proposed the development of supportive housing with wraparound services for individuals in need. Owens called for a more humane approach downtown, criticizing the use of no-contact orders that restrict homeless individuals from certain areas.
A third candidate for the First District seat, Thea Lopez, did not attend the forum. The candidates’ perspectives on affordable housing and homelessness will be crucial issues for voters to consider in the upcoming election. The forum highlighted the candidates’ differing approaches and focuses on addressing these pressing challenges facing the city of Wilmington.
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Photo credit www.delawarepublic.org
