It was with equal parts surprise and dismay that we learned last year the communities of Pe Ell, Toledo and Vader were considered “too affluent” for Community Development Block grants by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The federal government relies on U.S. Census survey information to determine the overall economic health of a community. That model is undoubtedly flawed, as one must only take a drive through these communities to see they fall far short of the definition of “affluent.”
These towns are anything but wealthy.
Many have used the grant program to provide important infrastructure improvements to residents.
For example, Vader uses the money for water and utility improvements.
Little has changed in the South Lewis County town since the funds were last allocated, though the data now finds them ineligible.
Likewise, Toledo Clerk/Treasurer Michelle Whitten noted another contradiction.
“When Toledo applied for CDBG funding two years ago, the Toledo School District Free and Reduced Lunch Program was at 55.5 percent of the student population. In checking today, 56 percent of the students receive Free and Reduced Lunches,” she said. “Toledo is a small community and we are still seeing homes being foreclosed on, homes on the market for extensive amount of time, more people using assistance in paying utility bills, Food Bank serving more citizens, etc. These are all indications the economy in Toledo is not better.”
As Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler noted in a letter to the U.S. Government Accountability Office this week (see story on page Main 5), the local problems are likely a reflection of the use of bad data that is also being relied upon by the federal government in similar communities across the country.
We urge leaders at the federal level to find and utilize a new model for determining the overall wealth of the community.
The existing program is obviously flawed, and we appreciate the congresswoman’s attempts to find a better solution.
Text to 911
Kudos to the Lewis County 911 Communications Division for taking the initiative in launching a new text message to 911 option.
Other communities throughout the state have considered the move, but Lewis County seems to be moving at a brisker pace, despite the difficulties of implementing such a big change.
The option will allow for those unable to safely speak during an emergency to request help. It could also be useful when a weak signal prevents an actual call from going out.
Look for the texting to 911 option to go live this summer.
