Senior Manager Of Athens Housing Authority Dispels Public Housing Myths

by Katherine Weaver
11/12/2007

Most residents living in Athens public housing are currently employed and do not have a history of violence or a police record.

This was the chief point that James Fair, senior property manager of Athens Housing Authority, wanted to make when he spoke to around 60 sociology students.

“One-third of the people in housing are elderly people, ages 65 and older,” said Fair. “The other two-thirds of the residents actually work but make less than $10 an hour and can’t afford housing.”

Inhabitants of public housing do pay monthly rent that is 30 percent of their adjusted income at the time. If a resident is not employed, the lowest amount his or her rent can be is $50.

Acceptance into public housing in Athens requires a criminal background check and a drug test. The organization refuses to take persons who have a violent police record.

Preference is given to applicants who are involved in domestic violence situations, people who are working, and registered voters.

Public housing makes up 4 percent of the Athens-Clarke County population. The average person resides in housing for three to four years.

“We try to help these people obtain a higher life,” Fair said. “Jobs that actually pay above minimum wage are scarce in Athens. A family cannot live on minimum wage, even if someone is working full time.”

There are certainly success stories for those who have resided in public housing, especially for young athletes who get college scholarships. However, in reality there is only a small percentage of the residents who actually leave and go on to a better situation.

“Economic conditions are so bad right now,” Fair said. “Without an education it is practically impossible to make a decent living.”