“Home is where the heart is.” “There is no place like home.” “Home sweet home.” There are hundreds of quotes and song lyrics expressing the importance of “home.” However, if my home was in one of Westmoreland County’s public housing buildings, I don’t think I would feel “there is no place like home.”
Unsafe conditions (lack of sidewalk repair, poor lighting), pest infestations, peeling paint, water leaks and inaccessible elevators are some of the issues reported by residents. The working families, seniors and disabled who live in public housing pay rent. For those of us who are renters, the expectation is that rent money is available for the upkeep of our buildings and units.
Ignoring issues creates a domino effect on repairs, resulting in the debilitated public housing buildings in Westmoreland County. How did these buildings get in such a state of disrepair, and who is responsible?
The American Rescue Plan funds provide an unprecedented opportunity to address significant shortcomings in some of the public housing facilities. It is time to invest in the residents of Westmoreland County. Every one of us deserves to live a dignified life. Commissioners, do the right thing.
Sharon L. Enfield
Greensburg