CANDIDATE STATEMENT: DePalma Supports Senior Housing, Affordability

Dear Wilmington residents,

Affordability is a big issue for all of us. Seniors on fixed incomes have it the worst as the cost of living goes up. As a retiree myself, I get it. We need to address that issue, and one way we can do it is supporting more senior housing.

I have spoken to so many seniors who would love to sell their home and move into a unit with other seniors. Many of us plan to sell our homes and downsize, using the remaining funds to live.

I believe Wilmington can do more to collaborate with the private sector. We can explore public-private partnerships to create affordable senior housing. For example, we can use properties like the old town hall, just behind the new Senior Center, as a potential spot to support our seniors. This will not be an easy task, but it can be done with the co-operation of the town and the private sector.

I also will continue to fight for greater affordability for seniors on fixed incomes. We need to continue to look at our tax relief programs for seniors. If reelected, I will advocate for the Select Board to do just that.

Sincerely,

Gary DePalma