Housing plan gets boost
By Joann Groff  joann@theacorn.com

Calabasas' rental assistance program, designed to help seniors and the disabled pay their rent every month, received a boost with an extended contract and additional money.

Mayor James Bozajian commended city staff in their efforts to round up more funds for the program initiated in 2004.

"We had given some direction to staff to try to get some additional assistance for low-income residents, in particular at (Calabasas Village) Mobile Estates, and you did so," Bozajian said at a recent City Council meeting. "We wound up getting some matching funds so we can get more assistance. I'm very happy we were able to get some additional monies."

The rental assistance program was developed in 2004 when increased rent strained seniors with limited income at the Calabasas Village Mobile Estates. In 2005, the council voted to extend the program to all eligible low-income and disabled residents in rental units in Calabasas.

In May, the council capped the number of recipients at 40 and increased the subsidy amount to $125 a month. Not only did the city secure the park's continued assistance, but park owners agreed to increase their contribution. According to a report on the matter, the park owners agree to pay a portion of the city's subsidy for 20 seniors at $50 each per month up to $12,000 annually.

"There are a lot of people who are really appreciative of all the help they're getting from the city," Councilmember Barry Groveman said.