Affordable Housing Includes Utility Costs

0
506

Dear Editor:

I was glad to see the article, “Eastern Shore Gets New Perspective on Affordable Housing,” in the Oct. 9 issue.

I’ve been lobbying for years to encourage Habitat for Humanity and other local organizations to make energy efficiency a priority in the houses they build. As the article rightly points out, low-income owners and renters are those who can least afford high energy bills, and by incorporating efficiency into the building up front, the overall monthly costs are actually lower. And it doesn’t have to be big-ticket items — just switching from 4-inch to 6-inch walls, adding extra insulation in the attic and floor, and using Energy Star  appliances can make a big difference.

Making housing affordable isn’t just about the cost when you hand the keys over — it’s the total cost that matters.

Sue Mastyl,
Harborton

Previous articleVoting Reminder Doesn’t Suggest Second Chance to Vote
Next articleThank You, Vasily