Fed Administrator Moves Into NYC Public Housing for Month
An administrator for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has moved into a Bronx NYCHA building, prepared to live in public housing for a month to see the ailments for herself.
Lynn Patton arrived at the Paterson Houses Monday with her air mattress, towels and grocery money. She's planning to stay in four different NYCHA buildings across the city for one week each.
"I'm hoping that by being here, at the very least it sends a sense of urgency that not only can changes every day be made, they must be made," she said.
She added that moving in was no political stunt and that she wants to see firsthand what exactly is wrong.
"The goal of this move is to make NYCHA very aware of what is happening," she said. "To make the monitor very aware of what is happening. To make quite frankly, the president of the United States is very aware of what is happening in his hometown."
Resident Miriam Rodriguez would say "everything" is problematic.
"The plumbing. Electricity. The water. Everything. The heating," she said.
NYCHA properties have been plagued with issues for years, from a lack of heat and hot water to lead paint and even broken elevators.
"I have to walk five flights downstairs a few minutes ago," said tenant Matha Eaddy. "Then you gotta walk five back upstairs."
But residents do think there's been a positive change since the federal government threatened to take over NYCHA. Others say they appreciate Patton's willingness to meet them in a unique way.
"Thank you very much. I know you're going to help progress and fix this building," said Rodriguez.
Patton will be taking a workout class with residents Monday night, and plans to attend other events and tours all week.
Photo Credit: News 4 NY
from NBC New York - Top Stories http://bit.ly/2BslQWj
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