Poverty, Schools, Housing, and Development
League Women Voters Questionnaire
Please answer the following question in 75 words or less.
Poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and lack of affordable housing have all contributed to the declining quality of life in many areas of the city. What do you feel is the single most road block that has contributed to this decline and what do you believe can be done to change the course and restore prosperity to the area?
Howie Hawkins' answer:
The Roadblock - the "trickle-down" approach of hoping that tax breaks and subsidies to rich, often absentee, owners will stimulate development and benefits will trickle down. The Green Alternative - policies that directly benefit poor and working people: progressive tax reform; fully funded schools; expanded living wage; higher minority employment goals; affordable housing units in all new developments; municipal bank for community-owned businesses; and public investment in sustainable green energy, transit, buildings, and industries. Details at www.HowieHawkins.org.