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33 <br />Objective #57: Reduce the number of Orange County housing units for seniors that <br />lack complete plumbing and kitchen facilities. (Goal II-B) <br />Comment: OC Health Dept. explored low-cost loans for residents. New initiative/Objective <br />to be considered -accessibility issues, i. e. ran7ps, widening doors, handrails. <br />Objective #59: Develop multi-unit housing with support services, with assistance <br />from the N.C. Housing Trust Fund, (Goal II-B) <br />Comment: Lack staff time and resources <br />GOAL II-C: To enable older persons to age in place, in their own residences, <br />as long as possible. <br />Accomplishments -Residential Support Services <br />Objective #60: Advocate legislatively to increase the coverage and allowance for <br />Homestead (Goal II-C) <br />Accomplishment: The Homestead Act was changed in 2002 to include qualifying homeowners <br />with a gross income of $18, 000 or less. The greater of $20, 000 of the permanent residence's tax <br />evaluation or .SO% is forgiven, for calculating the tax amount. For 2003, the grass income was <br />changed to $18,.500. The OC tax ojjrce has made it possible for citizens to pay their taxes on a <br />monthly basis through regular payments or bank drafts.. The information and assistance <br />specialist has worked with the local AARP to educate the public on this resource, <br />GOAL II-B: To ensure an adequate supply of affordable, safe, and suitable <br />housing exists for older residents in Orange County. <br />iJnmet Objectives -Residential Support Services <br />Objective #61: Develop and print a list of service providers who perform home <br />repairs/renovations and maintenance for in older persons. (Goal II-C) <br />Comment: Lack of staff time and resources. <br />Objective #62: Develop funding and reimbursement mechanisms (e.g. grants) that <br />encourage the provision of services to older persons at an affordable IeveL (Goal II-C) <br />(housekeeping, retrofit of home, outside repair, yard work, grocery delivery, etc.) <br />Strategies: <br />^ Implement programs in vocational education classes at OC high school and <br />community college level that provide credit for the provision of "x" number of <br />service hours to older persons in Orange County. <br />Lead agency: OC Department on Aging in partnership with, but not limited to, <br />Community College System and the Homebuilders Association. <br />^ Establish a volunteer pool of retired trades people willing to provide home <br />maintenance services on a sliding scale. <br />Lead agency: OC Dept, on Aging. <br />^ Apply for state and federal monies available for services. <br />Comment: Lack of staff or resources <br />Objective #63: Study and establish property tax policies enabling older persons to pay <br />14 <br />