LE'S TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE PEOPLE!

  The editorial, columnist writer, Alberta Phillips of the Austin American-Statesman makes a very clear, and engaging argument; in regards to More evictions pushing low-income scale families out of schools, and communities.  She argues the fact that local residents are being kicked out of their homes, considering the increase in the construction of condos, and upscale housing in the East Austin area of Mueller development. In my perspective, she is trying to convey, and catch the attention of many "slumlord" owners as well as city leaders, by taking into consideration the burden that many low-income scale families are facing, due to their decision-making.   

   Phillips is also arguing the fact that many landlords who are evicting lower income scale families are residents who have been living in these long-term affordable residences for years, and who have children who attend the local schools. Blanton Elementary School is located near these complexes and has a strong reputation for educating children who come from predominantly Hispanic families. The school is known for being a helping hand for many of these children who at times come to the school, not knowing English, and sadly even starving. Mainly, since their parents are having to choose "between paying rent or buying enough food to last the month." To sum up, Phillips is trying to point out the reality that nowadays it's a true hassle to find affordable housing. Yet, what landlords and various investors are doing to many low-income complexes is negatively affecting many long-term residents, who have work hard day to day to just meet ends meet. 

   I personally agree with what Phillips is arguing here, why you might ask? well, I understand that Austin is without a doubt one of the nation's fastest growing city, and along with that growth comes the booming real estate business, and investors etc. But I don't necessarily agree with the evictions of many residences, who are just simply trying to make a living for themselves, and their families. I don't agree with the fact that many landlord owners, who have been repeatedly violating city codes, have all of a sudden decided to become "real estate speculators." As "Tovo," stated in the opinion based commentary written by Phillips "the city should examine ways to help landlords who are financially strapped"  I fully agree with his suggestion as well, because I am sure that being a landlord isn't necessarily an easy task, and whenever you have financial burdens on your property your only option could possibly mean selling the property to wealthy real estate investors. In either case, It just isn't right, and ultimately the people who are affected by these decisions are, unfortunately, of lower income, and frankly DO NOT have enough resources to find affordable housing, which is just not humane. Certainly, It would be nice if landlords and city leaders did a bit more in helping these families stay in their communities, but sadly our economy doesn't function that way.  

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