Housing Not Meeting Needs

As a resident of Ventura County since 1966, I have seen much change.

When I came here there were houses for sale that I could afford. At the currently escalated prices and a salary which has not escalated on the same scale, now I could not.

As a carpenter, I have seen costs of most goods and services go up while my salary has not gone up at the same rate.

Also, my job opportunities have dwindled.

But, as I see it, I am one of the lucky ones.

There are people who used to have average incomes who cannot even afford shelter anymore. Many of the homeless are people who not so long ago had decent jobs with decent incomes.

Now, I ask myself, what has changed? Why did this happen?

Although there are many factors affecting the loss of jobs and the stagnant industry, the philosophy of slow-growth or no-growth in Ventura County is a factor. In recent elections, some proponents of this philosophy have won and consider that to be a mandate to obstruct growth.

That attitude certainly creates the “trickle down” situation affecting many related industries, including lumber, drywall, electrical, cabinetry, masonry and many others.

Housing--affordable housing--in Ventura County should be a goal of our elected officials.

WAYNE E. CATALANO

Camarillo