Response from Don Young:

Appropriate funding must be allocated to ensure that those in need are able to adequately meet their living costs. No one should be hungry, homeless or made to feel helpless in our abundant society. We must alter and adjust by every necessary means to enhance the positions and prospects of those outside the mainstream of society's benefits.

There is a definite shortage of affordable rental properties available to those who cannot enter the home-purchase market. If this situation is to be alleviated and eventually eliminated a greater ratio of low rental units must be made accessible to those requiring affordable housing.

Rent controls are a risky proposition due to fluctuating market conditions. Too often rents rise dramatically during an economic upsurge but are slow to respond to a downturn in the economy. Resource agencies such as Habitat for Humanity should be approached to work in conjunction with the city in assessing and providing sufficient living accommodation for all effected by disparity in our midst.