Posted by Retiredperson on December 2, 2008 at 5:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There goes the neighborhood - Now all the people with relatives living in their garages will be moving into this NEW neighborhood, bringing the garage-dwellers with them. It's inevitable, and this only moves the problem from one part of Oxnard to another. I told my kid not to buy in River Ridge, but she did not listen to me. Oh, well

Posted by Retiredperson on December 2, 2008 at 6:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Of course, I meant "River Park", not River Ridge, as the latter would NEVER allow garage-dwelling

Posted by dwilson on December 2, 2008 at 6:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's sad that so many are in need in our area. But I would like to see some personal responsibility taken for their plight. Let's not have so many children when you can't afford it, or maybe don't take that mortgage if you're not prepared for the balloon payment. Too many people live in the moment and then find themselves in trouble later.

Posted by lrgvanman on December 2, 2008 at 6:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ha Ha! Low income housing at River Park?

Posted by dairyclown on December 2, 2008 at 6:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A mini ghetto in the making for a bunch of losers. We owe these people nothing. Why don't they go back where they belong and take their crime with them!

Posted by vcreader101 on December 2, 2008 at 7:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Fantastic! Now the new home I bought in this community that I paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for will be over-run with people who are too stupid to stop having kids they can't afford, and are uneducated enough to allow their finances to get into such shambles that they are in this predicament. The irony in this is that I will be paying a supplemental property tax for the use of the schools, that I will NOT be sending my children to because it will be over-run with little gangbangers now. NICE.

Well, at least the welfare dwellers Escalades will be parked out front to keep the neighborhood LOOKING upscale haha

Posted by Ms_California on December 2, 2008 at 7:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I understand everyone needs help from time to time. But we all need it right now. I don't understand the "affordable housing" statement when you live in a very expensive county. I mean you pay based on where you live and the value of that area. If you can't afford it, move away to somewhere you can afford it. I would love to have an $800/mo house payment! Sign me up! I think that along with being approved for affordable housing you should have to take some sort of course that gets you back on your feet and not a burden on society. Get off DI and state welfare and get moving along with the rest of us. You should also only be allowed to live in affordable housing units for a limited amount of time.. say 2 years. That should be plenty of time to get you back on track. Also, you should have to submit to community service of some sort, you want handouts you have to offer them to someone else in need. I bet this would keep alot of the low-lifes away from deals like this. It would help those that are really in need. It would help those willing applicants; who act on these stipulations become better and more appreciative people. They are out there!

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 7:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

These people have a right to live in decent housing and the assumption that they will bring others into their homes has no basis in fact. They don't all have too many kids, either and the number of children has nothing to do with the astronomical cost of housing and the low wages in this county. Even with one child (as is the case for the one young woman), a two bedroom apartment will cost you in excess of $1000 - $1200 a month in this county. It is very easy to suggest that these "garage dwellers" as they are so unkindly labeled haven't taken personal responsibility for their plight. However, they are all working so they are not the drag on society posters here would like to claim. Given that there is apparently a 70% shortage of housing that low income folks can afford, it seems to be the personal responsibility is not with the individuals but rather with those who are the stewards of our community that have failed to provide adequate housing for our low income families. To suggest that being low income is somehow wrong, shameful or something that is easily remedied is ridiculous. There are many good, hardworking low income families out there. The fact that they are currently living in garages or crammed into single bedroom homes is because that's all they can afford and all that is available to them. Everyone complains about our neighborhoods turning into high density ghettos yet nobody wants to provide affordable housing. So what's the answer? Have them get higher paying jobs? I'm sure they'd like to! We will always have a lower income bracket of folks and right now that class of families is growing rapidly thanks to the economy. I'm sure theses families will be very grateful for their new homes and will follow the rules set in place to be good tenants. Some of you guys have a really sad and narrow view of life from your ivory towers.

Posted by pjlove10 on December 2, 2008 at 7:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Nine people share a three-bedroom apartment"

Ever notice that the majority of these people that need affordable housing have tons of kids? It's about time people take responsibility here. I've ranted about this stuff before, but it's frustrating to me. Plan your lives, learn to budget, and get educated.

*Soapbox rant... your turn.

:)

Posted by dwilson on December 2, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rebel123 you have a very kind and compassionate heart.

Posted by Rocket81 on December 2, 2008 at 7:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Immigration problems will never end as long as there is cheap housing being provided. Shame on the Cabrillo Corp. Some of those people are good at hiding income because they work for cash or sell at swapmeets. The problems dont stop there either. Overcrowding in the homes,(check the garages in 2 years), traffic, water, elecricity use and crime will go up. That school will have portables on campus by 2010. A very sad fact.

Posted by vcreader101 on December 2, 2008 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rebel123, no one is saying that folks don't deserve decent living conditions, however, you are in charge of your own destiny. If you decide at 20 years old to become a single mother, and not have a stable, decent paying job, or taken the time to become educated before becoming a parent, then the environment of your children, and yourself will suffer. Everyone is responsible for creating their success, and I am tired of hearing about these POOR YOUNG MOMS that have no where to go....guess what-if you continue to make it easy for all these people to become "haves" rather than "have nots", then they have no incentive to better themselves, and stop the generation, after generation of families continuing to bleed the system. I am just tired of the self-rightous "ITS MY RIGHT TO HAVE THIS STUFF" when they have't worked their butts off like the rest of us to get there that sacrificed to have what we do!!!

Posted by lawabider on December 2, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think, Rebel, that the folks "in ivory towers" have worked very hard and paid a boatload of taxes and have grown quite tired of this particular plight. Our community has reached its "maximum capacity" as pertains to infrastructure (traffic, schools, police, fire, medical, etc.) and it continues to grow as the poor pour into our towns needing housing, food, etc. I agree, somewhat, with the poster that mentioned living in an area that you CAN afford and what's wrong with that? People pay big bucks to live in nice areas and then the poor come in and devalue it. So where should the middle-class (or above) relocate to so that they don't have such filth, crime and overcrowding in their area? I've opened my own home to several friends finding themselves in need -- it IS happening to EVERYONE now and will only get worse before it gets better...

Posted by handyhood on December 2, 2008 at 7:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Cardenas has been living in a garage for the last 10 years and her wife and three daughters now live there, too"
First of all, how does this woman have a wife? I thought we voted against that? Second, why does this woman with a "wife" HAVE THREE CHILDREN? It goes to show the inconsistencies of our system when we began to enable law breakers!I hate to do this, but I agree with Mscalifornia.

Posted by dwilson on December 2, 2008 at 7:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm one of those poor single moms and have never taken a hand out. I work hard and am careful of my spending. No matter how bad things have gotten I knew my destiny was my own and no one else had the responsibility of taking care of me. That's the "old" american way. The new way is a form of socialism and I want no part of it. Having said that I do think as an individual I have a responsibility to care for my neighbor in need and as an individual I do. But I don't think it's a community mandate.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 8 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Yeah, shoulda coulda woulda! My daughter is a college grad with no kids and has to live with three other people in a four bedroom house in order to afford to live in this community. I make what is considered a decent living and am living pay check to pay check and would never be able to afford to replace my living situation if I was a renter. You make it sound so very simple.....don't have kids, do something more with your lives. You assume all of these people are young single moms! Do you have any basis for that assumption? "Get of disability". Right, it's that easy. This is a growing social problem that is certainly going to get worse. By the way, Cabrillo was very likely required to provide a certain number of affordable units by the city in order to build that complex. To assume these families are of the "it's my right to have this stuff" attitude is again AN ASSUMPTION for which you have no metrics. I have many friends who can't afford to live in their own place and have many of those are women in their 50's who are now single due to divorce, young college grads with student loans to pay off, young couples just starting out in life who even on dual incomes can't afford their own places. "Go somewhere you can afford" is another simplistic solution. Right....quit your job and move. Sure, the economy is overflowing with jobs in low rent towns!! Get real people. Getting these people out of the garages and over crowded multi-family homes is good for the community. Quit your sour grapes wah-wah-wah b----ing about it. It's just not that black and white, people.

Posted by bbofvta on December 2, 2008 at 8:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rebel123 is a raving Democrat, who believes that it is our (government) responsibility to bail out anyone, for any reason. Cradle to grave, it is the government's job to make everyone's dream come true.

The first couple mentioned were a family of 5 in a one bedroom apartment. Another family of 9 lived in a three bedroom apartment. This overcrowding is not safe for anyone, and probably not the best way to treat a rental unit. But then, the unit does not belong to them, so why should they care?

Cabrillo seems to build some nice units for low income people, but I have only seen Latinos living there. There are many low income people of different backgrounds that need a hand, too.

Perhaps, if California looked at the Arizona law that requires proof of legal status in the country before a person can be hired for a job, the numbers of low income families would decrease to a more manageable level.

In Arizona, an employer can lose is business license, permanently, for a second violation of knowingly and willingly hiring an illegal alien. Reports of reduced enrollments at schools, shortened lines at emergency rooms, and fewer low cost housing lines are commonly reported in the local papers.

I am not saying that illegal immigration is the root cause of our recession, but for every one of them that we offer extra help, one of our own citizens is denied that same help. Even Rebel123 cannot have a government large enough to feed and house the entire world.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 8:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Our community has reached it's maximum capacity? OK, then I guess we don't have room for anymore people who don't make less than $40K a year. Heck, you can't live here very well even on that! Where do you expect the motel maids, the dishwashers, the retail clerks working for minimum wage or all the others who are working for peanuts to live? Check out the job listings in this town lately??? This is a socio-economic issue. Communities are supposed to have adequate housing to accommodate the low income brackets that are going to exist because we can't all make the big bucks. There are mandates requiring ALL communities to provide a certain percentage of low to medium income housing and Ventura County is way short on that. Do you really think that these people are not hard working? Man, you really do have a way of painting this issue with a very, very broad brush. I am always amazed that so many think being poor is the "fault" of the person or worse yet, reason to assume all manner of other things about them.

Posted by getreal on December 2, 2008 at 8:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have one kid (I'm married, we both have great jobs, no debt except for one car payment) and I would love to have another kid. Problem is we can't afford the day care cost for two children and we don't qualify for assistance because we both work. We also don't qualify for low income housing because we have two incomes. But here we are, scraping by in this economy and helping out all the losers who don't have jobs, maintain minimum wage jobs and keep having kids that my taxes support. Why have low income housing to begin with. If prices were in accordance with the counties income this wouldn't even be an issue.

Posted by Retiredperson on December 2, 2008 at 8:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The 3-bedroom house across the street from me in west Oxnard, had at one time, up to 14 people living in it, so I can't buy that they are just "Moving up"...they will bring all of their tenants with them..building extra rooms in garages (violating code), causing over-crowding, and filling the park up with drug-infested gang-banging losers

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Rebel123 is a raving Democrat, who believes that it is our (government) responsibility to bail out anyone, for any reason. Cradle to grave, it is the government's job to make everyone's dream come true."

You have no idea what my political affiliation is nor do you have any idea what my philosophy on government is. I'm actually registered as an independent. And do you REALLY want to go to the "bail out" place??? We've bailed out millionaires! We're not talking about government handouts, we're talking about community planning that provides a good balance of housing for all income levels in our society. Ventura County has allowed an extreme imbalance in that regard. You want nice communities? Provide adequate affordable housing. What's going to happen to all the seniors in mobile home parks now that owners can "condo-ize" the place and raise their space rents beyond what they can afford? Is that also a cradle to grave government hand out to expect that there should be protection for people who are not able to pay exorbitant rents?

Posted by Ms_California on December 2, 2008 at 8:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rebel123.... speaking of wah-wah-wah b----ing about it, take some of your own advice. I was a single mother in my teens. I didn't take handouts or mooch off my parents or anyone else for that matter. I worked 2 jobs and busted my a$$ to get on my feet and provide for my kids! I went to college and did something with my life. You would never know by looking at me that I was that "steriotype!" Now, I am married to the most wonderful man and my children are living happy, healthy lives. Oh course we live paycheck to paycheck, that is what it takes right now but you deal, you cut spending and budget. It is possible, to pick yourself up and do something with you life, IF you have the drive and desire to be something in life. People have rough times I understand that but you can't tell me that if you work a decent job, making decent money you can't afford to at least rent a room and not mooch off the county and tax payers.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Our taxes are not paying for this program!!! The developer is REQUIRED TO PROVIDE LOWER RENT FOR A CERTAIN NUMBER OF UNITS IN EXCHANGE FOR BEING ABLE TO BUILD THEM!!! Do you not get that part? The BUILDER is covering the lower rent! Not the state, not the feds, not your taxes! It's a standard practice. That is how COMMUNITIES MAINTAIN A GOOD BALANCE OF INCOME LEVEL HOUSING!!! Cripes folks. Loosen up.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Here you go folks: "The economy is in recession, some people have lost their jobs, some have lost their homes and yet rental rates continue to go up."

There's your problem. Greedy landlords maybe?

Posted by Rob_Dawg on December 2, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The juxtaposition on the front page tells it all. State facing funding crisis headline running over the picture of people standing in line for a handout.

The Star is irresponsibly reporting this story. These units are not "affordable housing" they are "subsidized housing." Cabrillo does not build "affordable housing" they spend tax dollars to build "subsidized housing." The net effect of subsidized housing is to ultimately make more housing less affordable.

Posted by Relvd98 on December 2, 2008 at 8:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with rebel's last comment. These developers must provide a certain percentage to low-income families when building new tracts.

Posted by katndog on December 2, 2008 at 8:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A little SHORT TERM help...ok...but many of these people are LIFERS; once they obtain houseing they never leave. Many of them are cheating us the tax payer.

Ever see these "poor people" without a cell phone or the lastest gadget? Most of these people are ignorant about money management. They don't know how to spend and save their money properly. Hence the need for public assistance.

What they NEED is for our community to offer classes on money management. food shopping/preparation, etc.

That would be the greater investment in assistance. Giving them high end shelter for the rest of their lives is not the solution for them, their children or us the taxpayer who is footing the bill.

Posted by Rob_Dawg on December 2, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How do you think "developers" pay for below market sales? The fact that some people posting here don't even understand how the development process works particularly in Oxnard suggests this discussion will never resolve.
Property is the fruit of labor. Property is desirable, is a positive good in the world. That some should be rich shows that others may become rich and hence is just encouragement to industry and enterprise. Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him work diligently to build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence. – Abraham Lincoln

Posted by sdetatae on December 2, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I want to offer my congratulations to all the people who were able to get a new home in River Park... I hope your move is a good one. It is hard to find affordable places to live & scary not knowing what to do.

I wish you much happiness in your new homes.
:)

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rob, they are renting, not buying. Face it folks, poor people are not going away. Assuming that ALL poor people want handouts and will be lifers on welfare is simply not the case. Giving people a leg up is a good thing. The majority will continue to help themselves. Did you see the medium in come in this county in the box on the left?? It's significantly higher than what I make! No wonder minimum wage employees can't hack out a living here.

Posted by brwnoso on December 2, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Good thing they are getting help, God Bless everyone who made this possible for these people.

Posted by simivalleycoordinator on December 2, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"To qualify, applicants must meet economic requirements, pass background checks and agree to a set of rules to live in the apartments."

I wonder what that set of rules include. Riverpark cannot afford to make mistakes - so they better know what they are doing!

Posted by katndog on December 2, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Excuse me REBEL123 but the only way the developer can offer lower income rentals is through a tax incentive program offered by the state and feds. This program is being subsidized one way or another by our tax dollar(s).

I read your post and some of these people are hard working but the Story above used an example of a family with two adults on disability and three children. That family is the most common, not the few hard working types you sited.

I worked in the rental industry for 6 yrs and I watched the fraud take place day in/day out and there is little you (I) could do about it. There were and are families that come from country's around the world and once they get here secure a job. But then they "hurt their back". They end up on disability, housing, food stamps, medical all at our expense and trust me when I say they scream the loudest for more and more. They do bring their relatives and they do bring the value down.

These home owners will see how it happens, a little at a time. Most of these people will not appreciate the gift that is being offered here. They'll allow the oil to leak from their vehicles, the flat tire to remain on their non working ride. The kids out late, unsupervised, the bits of trash, and on it goes. I've seen it and once it starts there is little to be done. You can complain but these people are protected but your investment is not!

Posted by Rob_Dawg on December 2, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rebel, they aren't renting. They are occupying public housing. "Rent" is a market concept and these are not market dwelling units. And while we are at it; there is no "right" to decent housing as you asserted earlier. The reason we are in a fiscal crisis is this creeping entitlements attitude that invents rights where none exist.

Posted by jjplait on December 2, 2008 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There goes the neighborhood! Can someone tell me where I can find affordable housing in Bel Air? I can't actually afford to live there, but because I want to, they owe me affordable housing.

Posted by Ms_California on December 2, 2008 at 9:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Can't afford to live in Ventura County on your wage... MOVE! There are plenty of other cities in the U.S where your dollar goes farther and all housing is "affordable".

Posted by luv2sail on December 2, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

jjplait, if you find out direct me. I would love to live in Newport Beach, maybe a house with a dock for, let's say a 1,000 a month.

Posted by lawabider on December 2, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rebel, nice of you to defend the "downtrodden" -- that's very nobel of you -- however, we are talking about the "takers"... I bought my kid a car when he was young and he trashed it... He recently bought himself a truck and takes great care of it... Sense a theme here???

Posted by Bud_Bundy on December 2, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You can build all of the low income housing that you want, but do you think it will alleviate the overcrowding or "garage dwellers" one bit? Of course it won't. As soon as these people move out to trash a new neigborhood, their places will be filled by more low lifes that will continue the trend of turning Oxnard into a third world country. These people never bring up the standard of living, they only take it down to the lowest common demoninator. Now you'll have broke down cars, chickens running wild, and multiple families living in two bed room units. North Oxnard is starting to look like the south end. And the people just continue to tolerate it. Thank you liberalism for causing this mess.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OK, then let's just continue to let them live however they may, by hook or by crook. That'll help our neighborhoods, right. I disagree that the majority are "takers". It is my experience from a lot of volunteer work with various non-profits that help the less fortunate that MOST are trying very hard and will use the help they get to give back to the community. Man, I do wonder why so many on this board are so eager to categorize poor people as takers. Wow.

Posted by swtnsassy on December 2, 2008 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Funny how everyone can sit behind their computers and talk about everyone else. There are a lot of people who are one or checks away from having to move into someone else's home.
I have a good job and a college degree and most of my income goes to my rent...No I didn't have my son when I was young I was 28 and married, however now I am a single mother and raising my son on my own. So before you start to point fingers and call names. Remember one day the person living on someone's couch could be you or a family member. Oh and I dont qualify for ANY assistance because I ALONE make too much money. So for the people who really truly need assistance and are not taking advantage of the situation then that is good, however for those of you who are taking advantage no words for you...

Posted by swtnsassy on December 2, 2008 at 9:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I will work 3 jobs and current work 2 before I ask for a handout...Ms California, good for you, and what you said is correct one has to want to do something with your life, but there are times that you do need a little help for a limited time.... not forever, I know people who have never worked a day in their lives, and yet as I said I work 2 jobs to provide for my son, and they get everything handed to them....

Posted by tweetybyrdrt on December 2, 2008 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The knowledge that River park has a mello roos and that there was planned no-income housing are two of the major reasons I didn't buy there (along with is being a little to close to a river that can flood). the people that live there really have no basis to complain.
I am fully against mandated low-no-income housing projects unless there is a very strict occupancy limit. Cesar Chaves in Oxnard is a good example of doing it right, legal, clean, almost quiet. And when you drive through you dont see Escalades parked in the garages

Posted by BeaHappi on December 2, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Well it is only 140 units...not sure what % of the total number of apartments that is. I would hope that anyone who gets one of these is here legally and also is working.

Posted by tmh83 on December 2, 2008 at 10:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My husband and I wanted to buy a condo in Riverpark so we checked out the apartment complex just to see what kind of people they were allowing to rent. The said that they do background checks and everything and the rent started at $1600.00 per month. We felt better knowing that they were not allowing just anyone to move in there.

But, I don't understand. I always thought that you pay for what you get. If you are paying extra money to live in a nice place that you feel safe in then that is what you should get. The people who are in line for housing should be given discounts on college tuition, not discounted housing. Send these people to college. This way they can teach their children that getting an education is how you get to live in a nice place. Instead, they are teaching their children that it's pointless to get educated because the government will bail them out anyway.

Posted by vcreader101 on December 2, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

swtnsassy..good for you! I commend the person who takes responsibility for their life, and their actions, and creates a good example for their children, and doesn't expect the general public to take care of them and their "misfortune". I too, finished a 4-year degree while working full time (2 jobs), AND was a single parent, and too often wonder why other women find it so hard to do what I did, and take the lazy way out-but at least I can say I did it-ON MY OWN and gave my child an example to look toward-bettering your life for YOURSELF BY YOURSELF!

I will put money on the fact that in four years I will have to sell my place in Riverpark in order to avoid the mess in that complex Cabrillo has created. IF I can get anything for it at that point.

OH and FYI readers- most of us buyers were NOT told by the builders that high-density, low-income properties were going to be put in...at least I wasn't.

Posted by lawabider on December 2, 2008 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VCreader -- you should check with your attorney about "non disclosure" -- they may have to buy the unit back from you at the same price?? Worth taking a look anyways... I, too, raised two children completely on my own... I remember buying Top Ramen at Von's when the lady in front of me was buying steaks with food stamps... And I believe that if I can do it, anyone can!

Posted by kelly13 on December 2, 2008 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with BeaHappi. Rewarding illegal and lazy behavior got us in this mess.

Posted by anonrp on December 2, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My hope is that it does go the needy and can't afford a normal home. I hope this does not look like the Colonia public housing (aka the courts) were some have high priced cars (Escalades with spinners) in the drive way.

Posted by tmh83 on December 2, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And also, the builders are not paying for their housing. The people who are buying homes in riverpark are the ones who are paying for it. It's in their melaruse tax.

Posted by OxnardNative08 on December 2, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gotta love the classy people here in Ventura County! Always willing to lend that helping hand.

Posted by vcreader101 on December 2, 2008 at 10:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You are right tmh..I will pay for those other children to attend these schools, graffitti my parks, etc...

lawabider, thanks for the tip, i will look into it. And, hey, I have seen that person in Vons too...I think I know her LOL..I hear she buys lobster too haha

Posted by BeaHappi on December 2, 2008 at 10:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

swtnsassy...I'm with you...I would work as many jobs as I needed to in order to support my family on my own. I don't mind giving people a hand up; it's those with a sense of entitlement that bug me.

Posted by mamaof2 on December 2, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WOW lots of u people have such narrow minds, so much hate for "poor people". Not everyone chooses to be poor and if you were born into "poorness" you would know how difficult it is to get out. sometimes a series of unfortanate events happen and you just cant make ends meet anymore. but what would most of you know about that, u are all perfect right?

ms. california, i would like to know how u can afford to live in this county if all you do all day is sit behind your computer and complain about low income housing all day. u must not have a very important job to comment ALL DAY about what you think other people should be doing. also u shouldnt judge people because u are no better then anyone just because u are not "poor". sounds to me like u havent made the best choices in your life either. "teen mom", not a very good choice and while u were working 2 jobs and going to college & spending all this time away frm your kid i wonder who was watching it. sounds a little crazy to me to have to pay for housing, food a car (if u had one) child care, and college! wow and u NEVER took a handout doing it all, so this means u didnt get financial aid right? and u didnt take up a loan right? damn girl u must be superwomen or something.

Posted by keepermel on December 2, 2008 at 11:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I left an abusive husband with my two kids. We were homeless and had nothing, but I was refused any kind of aid. My name was still on the house my husband was living in so they said I did not qualify for anything. I rufused to lie on my applications, even though I was told by many people I should and was told how to do so. I have worked very hard and have managed to buy a mobile home. It has taken me 10 years to even be able to do that, but it was worth the work. There are people who deserve a little help, but I have not met a single person who got it when they really needed it. I have met plenty who get it without any desire to work their way out of it. With the economy, I find myself wondering if I will be able to keep my home, I planed and got a smart mortgage. I do not have huge dept on multiple credit cards....but if I had done any of those things I could be getting bailed out of trouble right now.....stupid me. This is the message being sent, no wonder people don't try.

Posted by caroldammit on December 2, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rebel: I'm as mystefied as you at the level of vitriol directed toward those in less fortunate circumstances, it would seem, than the posters here. Here's hoping none of them ever face a situation where they need some help themselves. Then again... ! ...nah. I can't wish tough luck on people even if they might learn & grow from it. But just whom do they think is going to bag their groceries, flip their burger, or pick up their trash when all those who "can't afford it, move away to somewhere you can afford it."? BTW: That's the whole idea behind "affordable housing"...so that every valuable member of our community can "afford" to continue living and working here. And I firmly believe that the majority of people in that line were hard-working, lower income earners looking to give their families a better life than the overstuffed garage slums so many are predicting is to come.

Posted by ktbarthedoor on December 2, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Maybe I can shed a different light on the issue of affordable housing. I spent my teenage years off the Ventura Ave. in the housing projects. How my family got there is not the issue but how we lived is. We knew from the start that it was only temporary until we could get back on our feet. My first impressions was how warm it was to live there and when it rained no one sat up at night to empty the buckets of water that came in from the leaking roof. To this day I say the best house I lived in as a teenager was the projects. They were clean; the streets were well kept as were the lawns. But again, we knew it was only temporary. We had lived in Crow’s Courts and for the ones that remember that you know what a treat it was to move. I know there is a need for affordable housing but it should not be a way of life. Was it hard being treated differently because we lived there? Yes it was but only made the decision to do better even stronger. Do I regret living there? No I don’t. It’s only temporary if you want it to be. j

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am disgusted and appalled at the lack of empathy most of you have! My husband and I qualify for low income housing and it is just the two of us. My husband is a full time graduate student at UCSB and works full time, I work full time as well. We are paying for his schooling on our own and that makes it extremely hard for us to afford rent. We do not ask for handouts and we work our butts off. We would like to have kids but know that this is not the right time. Low income housing is the only way we can afford to live out here, and moving is not an option because of my husband is at UCSB. One of these days all of you will be in or know someone who is in a situation like these people are. I hope that you are shown the same kindness and compassion that you choose to show others.

Posted by BeaHappi on December 2, 2008 at 11:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think that the lack of empathy comes from so many ppl abusing the system. It's too bad because there are a lot of hardworking people who do just need assistance through some tough times.

Posted by mgh19712004 on December 2, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

First of all,this is not a hand out. Why do you only see Latinos? It's because we are the majority of the city. I am married, with children (3), two incomes and we bought or home through "affordable housing" with the help of Cabrillo Development. All these applicants will need to do the same. We both work hard to this day. We had to save money, clean up our credit, meet the income requirements and attend classes on how to clean up our credit and control our finances. Our development has an HOA and they monitor the "look" of our area. If you are out of line, you get a letter in the mail. I am very grateful to have had this opportunity even if it means I have to stay put for the next 10 yrs. It's OK, I am happy where I am at. At the time my husband had to camp out at the park to get an application and when we got our home, we barely met the income requirements. Now,8 yrs later,we both have much better jobs and can still support ourselves and control our finances. We don't drive Escalades because they are beyond our needs if we want to live a decent life. I am content with the car I drive and can afford.Best of luck for those of you who stood in line for a chance at a home and I hope you qualify for it!

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Regardless of whether or not people have "abused the system" it still gives no one the right to pass judgement on these people.

Posted by getreal on December 2, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What I don't understand is why low income is usally a brand spankin new home with all the fixins while us working stiffs have to rent an old home to get by. I feel like I am in low income when I see the homes they qualify for. I would love a brand new two story home but I dont get one, I work and have an income. Oh, I also work FULL TIME and go to CSUCI FULL TIME at night to get by. I can't even get a grant for school so I really could care less about the poor me I go to school and deserve low income story. I also have children in day care. Too expensive to live here? MOVE!

Posted by Monday on December 2, 2008 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It's pretty damn simple, if you can't afford it here, move. There's plenty of other towns, counties or states that is more affordable. With rents for the rest of us middle class Ventura residents on the rise this is just sicking. My wife and I paid for an educations and have a decent paying jobs because of it, but we see our rent and affordable housing out of reach. Yet these dredges of society that do nothing but breed and hang off the tit of tax payers get breaks, what a crock. These people need to move the hell out of California if they can't live here, plain and simple.

Posted by JohnGC on December 2, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Low cost housing has been in fashion throughout the East Coast and the rust belt. The communities are informally called "projects", but normally dubbed some thing a lot more attractive (River Park-LOL). They are breeding grounds for crime, violence, and a host of neer-do-wells. So much so that at least in NYC a "housing authority police department" was out of necessity formed, and of course, further funded by taxpayers. I hope that the "planners" are considering the costs involved in high density low income housing associated with crime/gang suppression, as well as the collateral associated costs.

Posted by BeaHappi on December 2, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

klocjo11...I was just offering insight into why some ppl might feel the way that they do; no need to get snippy.

When social programs are funded by ordinary, working citizens (i.e. through taxes, fees, etc) ppl do have a right to express their opinions. You may not like it, but it's their right.

And one day when you and your husband are pulling down good incomes and you see your tax dollars funding programs where there is abuse and a sense of entitlement from some of the recipients (some, not all) you might find yourself being a bit judgemental.

For those who do use these opportunities to make a better way for you and your families, good for you. And do what you can to pay it forward and help others who might be in a similar situation.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by kelly13 on December 2, 2008 at 10:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with BeaHappi. Rewarding illegal and lazy behavior got us in this mess.

You are so right kelly13....illegal behavior on the part of lenders, brokers and CEO's got us in this mess.

And whatever: Rebel of course is always for the Gov bailing these people out.

I'm not looking for the government to "bail out" anybody, though it seems they are bailing out to the tune of trillions of dollars, not one penny of which will go to those making too little to afford housing in Ventura county.

Posted by Monday on December 2, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Won't it be great having to wade through a barrio to get to Whole Foods when it opens? Oh the joy, just don't get out of your car when a bicycle broadsides you. It'll also look great from the freeway with all the bars on the windows. There's nothing that say's welcome like gun shots.

Posted by mamaof2 on December 2, 2008 at 11:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

30DeV: Is it really that simple to just get up and move? how are these people going to come up with the $ to move when they can barley afford there rent? they need a first and last month dwn payment, plus a uhual truck to take there stuff. and before they even move to another city they need to find a job there so depending on how far they are moving they may need to rent a hotel for about a week to go job hunting and apt hunting. hhmmm doesnt sound so plain and simple to me. ur an idiot to not know relocating is expensive.

Posted by tellthetruth on December 2, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am a teacher in the area and I live in affordable housing. I have a Master's Degree and I am single. Yes I did choose this profession knowing I would never be wealthy, but I do think that an affordable housing option should be avaliable to me as well as other public service people like me that need to live close to the place where they work. Before you pass judgement you may want to think about all of the circumstances that cause someone to need affordable housing. I am sure you all want your children to have teachers and your communities to have police and fire persons that are close at hand in case of an emergency. Just think about it before you start throwing out all the labels and dishing out all the hate...

Posted by Ms_California on December 2, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

mamaof2... to answer your questions, yes I do work and thank you I have a very nice job that allows me time to sit at my computer, read today's new headlines and still make a very good living. I busted my butt to be where I am today. I never said that being a "teen mom" was the smartest thing or the best thing I have ever done in my life but I did it and I played the hand I was dealt in life. Unlike some others. As for working and going to school while being a mom, hell yes I was and AM supermom! I was fortunate enough that I was able to take my baby to work with me and I have very loving and understanding parents that helped with my child while I attended classes. No, I never took any financial aid or student loans, I paid for my college myself, because I worked hard and forged a better life for my children. My kids know how hard I have worked in my life to provide for them and give them a better chance at life. Don't be jealous because some of us have pride, dignity and self respect. Be happy that I was not one mooching off of your tax dollars. And by the way, I pay taxes too, so I can complain alllllll I want about where my blood, sweat and tears in monitary form are going while I sit at my sweet desk collecting a nice paycheck still busting my butt to make my life the best it can be.

Posted by lmcventura on December 2, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Rebel123: I must commend you on your attempt at trying to make those here, who only see things in brown/black and white, that it isn't all about "garage dwellers" or "escalades with spinners on the driveways" or "chickens running wild". (talk about stereotyping!!!) It is about providing a place to live for those who have fallen by the wayside as a result of the crumbling of our economy. There were people with degrees on line, people with jobs who couldn't afford what they now have, people with children who had before, and now don't due to whatever their circumnstances. These aren't all the "third world dwellers" they are assumed to be. (There's supposed to be backgounds checks, remember??). The majority of them may all be Americans, who have fallen on the hardest of times.
While it is understandable that people worry about their neighborhoods and want to keep out this "trash"....where should they go? should cities build ghettos to house these "undesirables" out of the "Upper/Lower Middle Class" view??.
I think not.
The very reason why the majority of these people find themselves in this plight IS because of this very attitude (NIMBY!!!!)...it perpetuates this this view and allows it to continue. But as Americans (legal, working, etc') they deserve a hand in achieving that which most of us take for granted....a safe, affordable, place to live....
I'll close with this: My wife, who is on disability due a work related break down and chronic illness, and I, make $64K on retirement pay, and we could not afford to live in Ventura once I retired, so we moved....I don't know what the hourly wage break down is for us, but I am sure of this: If I had to try to make living there on minimum wage, I too would need help....I've been to college, I'm a citizen, served my country, and have 34 years of working experience...but I wouldn't be safe from misfortune....
The American Dream Belongs To All Of Us, not just those living in their "Ivory Towers" or those who were given it by Fate Of Their Birth Or Race!

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Oh, I also work FULL TIME and go to CSUCI FULL TIME at night to get by. I can't even get a grant for school so I really could care less about the poor me I go to school and deserve low income story."

Who said Poor Me? I am not looking for pity from anyone. I just expect a little bit of decency from fellow human beings. We also do not qualify to receive grants for school. We are paying for it out of our incomes. And again moving is out of the question because my husband is a student at UCSB. I simply stated that not everyone in that line is a crook or a low life! And I love how you state that you work FULL TIME and are going to CSUCI FULL TIME and yet you do not care about the I go to school I deserve low income story, you obviously DO care or you wouldn't have said anything. And no one said anything about deserving low income housing. I think people need it. And you have no right to question or pass judgement on them.

"klocjo11...I was just offering insight into why some ppl might feel the way that they do; no need to get snippy."

I wasn't being snippy. I am just saying unless you know someone standing in that line who is taking advantage of the government and tax payers, then you shouldn't pass judgement. Even if there is someone in that group who is abusing the system it doesn't mean the rest of them are. Just because there is one bad grape in the bunch doesn't make them all bad.

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

lmcventura, that was very eloquently said! Thank you!

Posted by mamaof2 on December 2, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ms cali: i am far from jealous, it sounds to me u are jealous of these people who are getting help. i am a mother of 2 obviously and also work my butt off and make a good living for my children but there have been times where i did need a helping hand and it wasnt always through the gov. it was impossible to get where i am by myself today, most of the time i had family support and help. not all people are fortunate enough to have family help or can take there kids to work with them. most of us have to pay for child care and dont get a chance to live with our parents while we attend school. yup u can complain all u want, ur right but these people are still going to get there housing and all ur complaining and bitteness is doing nothing...

also, good for u, i am not tryin to put down what u have made of ur life at all... i am just trying to make a point that some people need help and we are not all perfect so we should not judge ALL low income families because of the ones who have abused the system.

Posted by greengamer on December 2, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Uneducated people breed like rabbits. Its time to educate the masses about birth control!!!!!!!!

We should follow Japan's lead and limit the number of offspring a woman can have.

Posted by Truth_Hurts on December 2, 2008 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What a bunch of self rightous POS's you all are!!

The economy is in the toilet, well educated wealthy people are losing their homes ...but that's ok "we're in a recession"..."Oh those poor people" ...but you have these other people going through the very same thing and that warrants comment's like "there goes the neighborhood" and immigration comments???

You guys are a bunch of hypocrites.

People need to live somewhere and if a developer is willing to provide low income housing to those who qualify...so be it.

You're just jealous you're paying full price.

Suck it up and be happy that you're more fortunate.

Posted by BeaHappi on December 2, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Even if there is someone in that group who is abusing the system it doesn't mean the rest of them are. Just because there is one bad grape in the bunch doesn't make them all bad."

I totally agree. The abusers always make it harder on those who legitimately need assistance. And it's true, no one should pass judgement. I think that some degree of that is human nature...raising my hand for guilty of being judgemental from time to time.

Posted by keepermel on December 2, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The problem is that the people who are hurting so bad right now (middle class) do not qualify for any of these assitances. They worked hard to own something so they do not qualify. They have worked two sometimes three jobs to earn what they have and that is no longer making ends meet....but they still do not qualify. There are people who have been on assistance for decades taking up the spots that some people now need, but they cant get it because there are not enough spots available. The miss uses of the system by people who did not earn it in the first place, leaves nothing for the ones that paid into it and have earned the right to get some help for once. That is why there is so much anger. And yes as I mentioned before....I am poor and work very hard just to live paycheck to paycheck....but I do it. I needed the help and was refused. That also gives me the right to be angry.

Posted by Ms_California on December 2, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

mamaof2, if you read my original quote on here, I said that for those that NEED low income affordable housing that is fine. HOWEVER! they should be limited to the number of years they can accept low income housing, giving back to the community via volunteer programs etc. and you should have to fall within guidelines. Someone that is collecting welfare sitting on their butts watching Opera while popping out kids every year, isn't low income, that is pure laziness! These unfortunately are the ones who are lining up for these "free" programs. What does that teach our children? Just be lazy and you will have it all handed to you.....? NO wonder our ecomony is in the crapper! I understand that getting help from family from time to time is uncontrollable. But depending and expecting for other people to take care of you and yours is just plain disrespectful. People need to step up, get a life and become productive in society.

Posted by Monday on December 2, 2008 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

@mamaof2

They can take their guaranteed welfare check with them, a luxury the rest of don't have. They can take their Medicaid along with them, something else the rest of us can't do. So your pathetic argument about moving expenses is weak at best. They'll still incur those costs even moving from the garage they've been in for the last ten years.

It sounds as if your one of these people that expect us taxpayers to take care of your mistakes and poor choices. Can't afford the kids you have wear a condom, get on the pill. Don't make enough to afford housing live somewhere you can. Have a low paying job, get a second one to make ends meet. Want to make more, get a education.

Stop whining to the rest of us.

Posted by VOPatrol on December 2, 2008 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I see so many people here trying to compare apples and oranges. For the few that are living in affordable housing, working on thier degrees, single, or married with no kids, two incomes, that's exactly what these units are supposed to be for. Not the family with 4 kids, limited education, working minimum wage jobs with no future.

I have to agree with so many here, if you can't afford to live in SoCal, then move. I worked in Santa Barbara for a few years, and listen to so many people complain about how they couldn't afford to live there, and they worked jobs that they could do in Fresno, or Tuscon, Witchita, wherever. Face it, most people WANT to live here, they don't HAVE to. Instead of government assistance for housing in areas like this, how about subsidies to help people move to more realistic areas where the dollar goes further. I lived in Fresno in college, and things aren't as cheap, but we paid less than $400 a month for a two bedroom. There are cheaper places to live, but people WANT to stay here.

"her wife and three daughters now live there, too. The worst part isn't having to share the kitchen and bathroom with the seven people who live in the house"

By my math, that's 12 people in one house. 12 people using one bathroom, 12 people coming and going. Unbelievable.

Posted by lawabider on December 2, 2008 at 12:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Those that receive public assistance in ANY form should face mandatory drug testing, while they're at it!

Posted by Monday on December 2, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

All those people on welfare and public assistance programs should be on the Highways and the beaches picking up trash. They would at least be doing something to pay back the taxpayers by making our drives to work a little more pleasant.

Posted by NightLight on December 2, 2008 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There's nothing I can say that Rebel, Carol, Bea, and others haven't already said more eloquently than I could, but that's never stopped me before, lol.

People call this a bailout, using the hot term of the day. Correct me if I'm wrong but these people aren't being given free housing, they still have to make monthly payments.

If there are lower income families in my neighborhood, I would rather they live in a clean, up-to-code apartment rather than being crammed into a garage or someone else's living room. Not just for the sake of the family (especially the children) but also just for the cleanliness and safety of everyone, including myself.

For all of the people complaining about government handouts, I don't remember a rush of people hurrying to return their government stimulus checks a few months back. If you are so against other people receiving things, surely your conscience wouldn't let you accept such a "handout" when it was made available to you?

Posted by keepermel on December 2, 2008 at 12:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow....the difference since you can not see it NightLight is that everyone who paid in with their taxes earned a stimulous check. Everyone who earned it got it. That is no where close to the people who sit back and recieve free money and benefits for years and years with no attempt to better themselves or to get off the aid so someone else can get a turn. Talk about apples to oranges!

Posted by NightLight on December 2, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Okay, maybe that wasn't the best analogy.

Posted by 805grl on December 2, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The schools in Riverpark are already infested with wanna be gang bangers! My kid attended the middle school last year and it was horrible! The school had constant fights, and total disorder from gang banger girl/boy wanna be's it was a crazy environment the school had no control over. I pulled my kid out of there! Now with more 'low income' families living there working two+ jobs more kids will be free to roam around and add to the schools issues. Riverpark is nice but I dont think I would move there because of these issues.

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"You sound way too smart to be at UCSB. What's is your husband studying? That is husband right?"

My husband is studying Chemical Engineering, and I have put off my studies until he is done, because paying for one college education at a time is more than enough.

"And what "made" you get married?"

Who said I was forced into getting married? We wanted to get married and so we did. I wanted to make sure that certain people in my life were there when I walked down the aisle.

"Show me a major course of study at UCSB and I'll show you an affordable campus somewhere else the the NATION with an affordable cost of living."

His choice to go to UCSB was based off of many things. The most important being we have family in the southern California. One with a terminal illness so moving out of the state was not an option... and you probably don't know this but California is not an affordable state by any stretch of the imagination.

"Face it: It seems putting off the kids is the only decent decision you've made so far."

I don't even know you, who do you think you are to "judge" the decisions I have made. The main reason we want kids so badly is so that my Dad will be alive to see them, maybe play with them and watch them grow up. We choose not to have them because we are not prepared, financially, to do so.

"These "I can only live or study or do this or do that in "California" people" make me sick."

I can live and study anywhere. We stay here because of extenuating circumstances, that we can't change nor are we happy about. Beleive me the fact that people like you live in California make this state an even more undesirable place to live.

"Oh and by the way. A simple thanks would have worked, but from the all the good, hardworking, taxpaying, educated (yes maybe even outside of California) citizens of Santa Barbara and Ventura County...You're Welcome! Just in case it's not obvious to you."

I owe you nothing, and I would not consider you one of the "good, hardworking, taxpaying, educated (yes maybe even outside of California) citizens of Santa Barbara and Ventura County" there are too many oxymorons in that sentence.

Posted by swtnsassy on December 2, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have no problem with low income housing, for those who need it, fixed incomes, older, and who appreciate it but for those who abuse it I have a major problem. I am not saying that anyone in line is or is not abusing it. I do know people who have more children then I want to count and have never worked a day in their lives and then get assistance for housing and get to live in a nice 4 bdrm home for almost nothing, in the same area that I work my butt off to live in.

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"kloc: Maybe you need to reread Imcventura's post again to see if you agree."

I don't need to read it again, I fully understood what I was reading the first time and I still agree that it was eloquently put.

"As I read it he's calling out the idiots who overspent, he's calling out capitalism and he's calling out the democratic republic we (as far as I can tell) so freely live in and supports these boneheads."

See what I read states how there are people out there standing in line for affordable housing who work there butts off, have educations and have simple fallen on hard times.

"Oh and by the way, he moved when he couldn't afford it here anymore. Interesting."

For the third time, moving is not an option for my husband and I, he is in SCHOOL!!! We just moved to the area in July of this year when my husband was accepted as a graduate student to UCSB. We moved from an area in southern California where we could comfortably afford to live, to Santa Barbara so that he can further his education and career.

"Gotta hand it to him, albeit a bit on the Socialist side of things. Birds of the same feather. Then again you are the one on housing assistance. We'll cut you some slack though. You must be tired from all that hard work and not reading things correctly. Better rest up...You gotta big day ahead of you! A full day of sitting around and blogging on the local rag pages. Good to know that my money is being well spent. Pip Pip and Cheerio!"

And I never said we were on housing assistance. I said we qualified for it. It's nice to know it is there if we need it. If and when anything opens up in Santa Barbara we will be glad to have it. But there is so little affordable hosuing in this county that my husband will be out of school and we can go back home where there are kind and decent people. People so different from you, you would think you were on another planet. Next time please think before you speak. Idiotic comments are very unbecoming.

Posted by srcheek on December 2, 2008 at 2:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If everyone who couldn't afford to live here moved, as some of y'all have suggested, who would mow your lawns, serve you in the drive-through, clean your offices, wait on you at your local favorite restaurant, etc.? Please be aware that just because someone may be considered low-income, it does not mean that they are lazy, unwilling to work, living off the system, and the other myriad descriptions offered.

Posted by NightLight on December 2, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What some people fail to realize is that there are no magic formulas anymore. So many people try to do things the “right” way by studying hard, going to college, graduating with a degree, and find themselves struggling to make ends meet. You can do things to improve your odds but there are no guarantees. For those of you who are doing well, I sincerely congratulate you and wish you continued success. But please realize that somewhere there are people who have made exactly the same choices as you who are struggling. A layoff or two or three, a medical emergency, an unplanned pregnancy, any number of things can change the best of plans. Be thankful for what you have, be proud of your success, but realize that for all of your hard work, other forces came into play to get you where you are, and these forces didn’t work the same for everyone.

Posted by NightLight on December 2, 2008 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

klocjo11, please don’t feel you need to justify yourself or your choices to anyone, much less the person you’re addressing; and please don’t think everyone here is like that! It's frustrating that here you are trying to do things the "right" way by going to college and some would still find room to criticize you. Good luck with your studies, and the same to your husband.

Posted by johnnsc on December 2, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Question: If you and your spouse are living in a garage for ten years, why would you bring children into this world? I see many couples have children when they obviously cannot adequately provide for their childrens' physical and emotional needs. To me it seems a question of resonsibility.

Posted by srjsr on December 2, 2008 at 2:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

lawabider I agree with you about the mandatory drug testing.

Their are several occupations that require you to take and pass a drug test to keep working. You should at least have to do to it to receive something for doing absolutely nothing.

Posted by klocjo11 on December 2, 2008 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NightLight:

Thank you! I normally don't go that far when replying to idiots but the guy/girl ticked me off. I appreciate your kindness and I know that not everyone in SB/Ventura is as callous as the aforementioned poster.

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I read the other day that a study showed that more than half of the working tax payers in this country have less than two months worth of money saved up should they lose their jobs. In other words, half of us are one paycheck away from being homeless. I know I'd be dipping into my retirement next week if I lost my job! I've paid taxes for the last 40 years and by god, if I needed the help I'd have been in that line too. There is NO SHAME in needing help. Low income housing is desperately needed in this county. Moving is seldom an option for most people. Move to what job??? The working poor are gaining numbers daily. It is time our tax dollars worked for those who need it and deserve the help. For all of you who complain about the "takers", maybe you'd be happier if your tax dollars came back in the form of housing help for YOU, education help for YOU, medical coverage help for YOU. How many of you on this board couldn't use some help?? Why not spend our tax dollars helping the average joe? What if instead of giving billions to huge companies that messed up they gave every tax payer fifty grand?? How stimulated would the economy be then?? The only thing the bailouts have done for us is to make it easier to stay in debt. save your classist/racist comments folks. It ain't just brown people in a world of hurt these days!!

Posted by lmcventura on December 2, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I want to point out to all of you, that this Nation was built on the backs of Immigrants, represented by nearly all of the nationalities on this earth......Has everyone of you forgotten that??...That means that all of you (even if you deny it) came here as an immigrant, someone long ago, brought your genes to the land we call America...What gives you the right today to assume that Self Rightgeous Arrogance while you declare that "they should all go back to mexico"??...Whether you like it or not, minorities (of all kinds) are here, we are your neightbors, we are your teachers, we are your doctors, we are your little league coaches, we pick your vegetables, we cook your fast food, we mow your lawns, we pay taxes, and when we make mistakes, we pay the price, and as such we have earned the right to better ourselves. To generalize and assume that the entire Latino, Mexican, or whatever you choose to call us population are a bunch of loosers is patethic and only bespeaks of your ingorance and hatred for those whom you deem unsuitable for your utopian perception of your cities.
Remember this, someday you'll all be in the position of not being able to afford your present living conditions....only then, will you find what its like to need a helping hand.....and hopefully someone will extend their hand to you and assist you....
P.S. I don't consider myself socialistic, nor am I knocking the The Republic, in fact I was a life long registered republican until recently, today I call myself an Independent voter. Disillusioned by the ruse played upon us by the present government...
I do consider myself a voice that speaks for those who can't or won't, or aren't allowed to because of their origin, whatever it may be.

Posted by lawabider on December 2, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Even with all the perceived hot air blowing in here -- I believe we all agree that charity is just a plain necessity of life that all can and will benefit from at one point or another in our lives... The REASON we angry posters are angry is due to the ABUSE of the system... That stance has been posted here repeatedly... And not one of you in defense of the downtrodden can deny this simple fact. I don't think one person blogging in here would deny a meal to the hungry if it were requested of them... And that, coming from ME, says alot (in that I don't know most of these people, but I do have faith in basic human kindness)

Posted by Monday on December 2, 2008 at 3:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We need a HB 1804 like Oklahoma here in California. That would resolve any issues with immigration.

The argument isn't about not helping out those who hit tough times, but living in a garage for 10 years isn't hitting a rough patch, it's being to damn lazy to make changes to your life. Those that are in a transitional period that need help should have HUD, welfare and Medicaid available but for a time that is reasonable. Those that make no adjustments to their spending habits or try to improve their chances of success but rather choose to keep abusing the system should be cut.

I feel pity for those who at least try but 10 years in a garage without getting an education or having 4 children when you can't afford one is not being a responsible citizen.

Posted by whatsup805 on December 2, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I see a lot of cold hearted people here...

Posted by CJB on December 2, 2008 at 4:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As a resident of Riverpark of course I’m concerned about the crime lower income folks often bring in but I’m willing to keep an open mind with this development.

I have been told that the Oxnard PD is opening a branch in the new shopping/entertainment area called the Collections. (sometime next summer)

Plus I would image that the housing authority will be pretty strict about who gets the approval and what they must do to keep their place.

I’ll keep an open mind but the first sign of B*S* and I’ll be the first one standing in front of those places with a torch and a pitch fork.

Posted by horsespinner on December 2, 2008 at 4:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everyone who buys a tract house at retail price pays for the socialized housing labeled "Affordable". Those people pay extra for the chosen few, and then pay more taxes since the extra cost is added to the value. It is a gift that just keeps on giving and giving. They also pay more than required since tax increases are indexed to the previous years value, so they are also giving more and more. Its a fair system, its just money, someone's money

Posted by JohnInSimi on December 2, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think we need to start making Soylent Green.

Posted by nojustice_justus on December 2, 2008 at 5:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

With all the added costs (assessments) to the price of the real estate in River Park who would want to buy there anyway?

When all that area is underwater after a huge storm we will have a whole new discussion on River Park. How apropos a name....River/Park.

Posted by ironwoman on December 2, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What's the matter? Spread the Wealth. That's what you voted for. Get used to it.

Posted by sparks240 on December 2, 2008 at 7:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The affordable housing that CEDC is building in River Park is a state funded project. It is paid for with taxpayer money, not added costs or assessments. Anyone who lives there is on the public dole. Also, anyone who works on that project gets paid the "prevailing wage" for their trade. These wages are usually way higher than the normal wage.

Posted by Tanker on December 2, 2008 at 8:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

CEDC leases mostly to illegal immigrants who have anchor babies which makes them elligible for public funded housing. Most people who live in CEDC projects do not speak English.

CEDC is a Latino activist developer with their activist lawyers whose only interest is returning California to Aztlan. They are racists of the first degree.

Posted by karenholguin on December 2, 2008 at 8:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I MUST AGREE WITH REBEL123 YOU GO...

Posted by anaX on December 2, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So, all of the poor people should just move away to somewhere more affordable? It would be interesting to see what would happen if that day ever came when all of the people who actually do the work suddenly aren't here. A lot of the posters here who are living the fat life are going to be in for a very rude awakening thanks to the greed of many of our corporations and policy makers. Our economy is tanking big time, and the ripple effect will be hitting you soon.

It will be pretty interesting to see how the self-righteous adapt to being poor.

I love how we seem to be so accepting of socialism for our bloated corporate executives, but have such a laissez-faire attitude the people working two jobs and still struggle to get by.

Posted by marco85 on December 2, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Mandatory birth control for those receiving any kind of public assistance. I defy anyone to argue that one can better his or her dire financial situation by having more babies. I guarantee you that this would have an instant effect on improving people's lives, as well as our general economy.

Posted by anaX on December 2, 2008 at 8:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Marco85, You do know that birth control is not always effective, don't you? So then what? Seems like a very slippery slope and I would guess that would mean that you are neither pro-life nor conservative if you are in favor of increasing the role of government like that, to where they have a say in who is deserving of having kids and who isn't. It's a pretty scary world you seem to desire.

Posted by Sherman_the_Worman on December 2, 2008 at 8:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To all you "Christians" out there in VC Star land, a message from your Jesus:

Matthew 25:

31"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

41"Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'

44"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'

45"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'

46"Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

Posted by manolovta on December 2, 2008 at 8:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How close are these units to the flood zone? You can prob. figure out what I would like to say next.
Some one made a very good point about working some hours for the city and state if you collect assitance. This should be mandatory if your receive welfare ect. whith exception of disabled people. Get this lazys to give back by cleanig up our freeway, streets and beaches. Orange vest and a plastic bag to start. If you cant afford to live here move. Oxnard is one of the most affordable areas to live in the county and if you cant make it here well HOW about Bakersfield. This is sad to for those poor home owners who wok hard to better lives and pay taxes. I too would be upset about the school going to c--p. PS a store front wont make a diff. when a PD staion cant. Too bad hang in there HOME OWNERS.

Posted by manolovta on December 2, 2008 at 9:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Please give out birth control with every lease contract, and have the new renters thank the home owners for paying for their rental. Man I'm glad I never bought there, no really. Looks nice from the freeway.

Posted by NowHearThis on December 2, 2008 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm totally against the low-income housing fraud and tyranny. People make choices, whether to get pregnant at 15, steal and rob, thus tarnishing their record, or not getting a proper education, even though it's free.

Low income housing forces developers to make available a certain amount of units to low-incomers, the ones, usually low on responsibility and who consistently ruin the neighborhood.

Maybe the STAR will remove this...but it's the truth folks.

People, start making good choices with your lives. If you short of dough, join the Navy. I did at 17, got out at 20...best thing I ever did. I learned discipline, got some skills, saved for college, and now don't have any medical coverage issues, thanks to my veterans status.

Excuses for poor choices don't cut it with me. And gov't continues to kowtow to these people.

Think people.

Posted by Sherman_the_Worman on December 2, 2008 at 10:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Scapegoat says:

"People from South and Central America continue to be the most expensive immigrant groups ever to settle in what is known as the USA. They are continually in need of some sort of 'fix'. Why is that?"

Do you have sources? ...more than the Irish? (just kidding... love you emerald islanders). ... more than the Italians? (again, love the sons and daughters of Italy).

I guess the point I am saying that immigrants were always treated as a burden and with discrimination (1920s).

Posted by marco85 on December 2, 2008 at 10:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

anaX: I'm not making any statement as to my political bent. I'm simply saying that if you are going to be taking my hard earned tax money to assist you in getting back on your feet, then you agree to a contract wherein you won't do things that would prolong your dependence on my money! If I lend a friend $100 for food, I don't want to see him at Best Buy browsing the music CD's. I have no desire to increase the role of government in our lives. In fact my idea about birth control would ultimately reduce government by reducing the number of people dependent on it for their existence. BTW, there are implanted birth control devices that are incredibly effective.

Posted by VOPatrol on December 2, 2008 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by srcheek on December 2, 2008 at 2:12 p.m. "If everyone who couldn't afford to live here moved, as some of y'all have suggested, who would mow your lawns, serve you in the drive-through, clean your offices, wait on you at your local favorite restaurant, etc.? "

How about mow your own lawn, like my dad did growing up, let the high school kids work in the fast food chains, like they did when I was a kid, not a bunch of spanish-speaking adults, pick up after yourself at the office, so you don't need Juanita and Jose to do it. We've become a lazy society, let someone else do everything for us....

Posted by Sherman_the_Worman on December 2, 2008 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

NowHearThis says:

"...and now don't have any medical coverage issues, thanks to my veterans status."

Now isn't that "socialist?" The government is "redistributing" my wealth for your medical coverage?

However.... I don't have a problem with this "socialism." It is a fair deal for a veteran. My father was a 100% service-connected disabled veteran. He got some money for his injury during the war, as well as priority VA status. Is that "socialism?" You bet, and in a good way.

15 year old pregnant women, well... I think this can be solved by "science based" reproductive education and some tweaking in "Church" attitude (guess which church?).

Posted by VOPatrol on December 2, 2008 at 10:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by rebel123 on December 2, 2008 at 3:04 p.m.

"I read the other day that a study showed that more than half of the working tax payers in this country have less than two months worth of money saved up should they lose their jobs. In other words, half of us are one paycheck away from being homeless. I know I'd be dipping into my retirement next week if I lost my job!"

I hate to ask, but what are you doing with your money that you don't have enough to live without dipping into your retirement? This is exactly the problem that has gotten so much of this country in trouble, living beyond your means. When I was laid off earlier this year, I was able to go 6 months without working full time, becuase I put money aside for years. I don't drive a fancy car, I bought probably the cheapest car on the market at the time. Gets me from point a to b. The wife drives a 91 explorer. Still runs fine, why spend the $$ on something new? We don't own a big house, we have a decent apartment. Every once in a while we splurge on something like our TV, or a trip once or twice a year (Where we usually stay with family or friends to save $$) We just simply don't live beyond our means. Even though we have the income to actually live a bit fancier than we do, we're wise with our money so that if I was to loose my job again, or the mrs. looses hers, we're not out on the street. I have a college degree and made nearly 6 figures last year, but didn't go out and spend spend spend just becuase I had money in my pocket.

Posted by srcheek on December 3, 2008 at 9:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VOPatrol: I am not paid to clean the toilet in our office, that is what the cleaning service is for. My husband mows our lawn, I was simply noting some folks use a lawn care service. Not all fast-food workers and janitors are "Spanish-speaking Juanitas and Joses" as you suggested. There are a lot of seniors working in fast food to supplement their meager Social Security checks. You ought to be more careful when posting comments; your ignorance is showing.

Posted by lawson_wayne on December 3, 2008 at 9:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

By definition Affordable Housing, Health Care, Public Transportation ... are NOT rights, a true right does not require others to involuntarily fund the program through fees or taxes. They're creations of politicians who take my money to buy the votes of ignorant people.

Posted by VOPatrol on December 3, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A lot of seniors in fast food? I think you spelled that wrong, becuase I don't see seniors, I see senors. I don't know what fast food place you go to, but I can't remember the last time I walked into one where everyone behind the counter wasn't latino. I'm not that old, and I remember it being a right of passage in high school to work at McDonalds, or Wendys, or Taco Bell. Now, unless you speak spanish, you're pretty much out of luck trying to get a job there, and I don't know that many seniors that speak fluent spanish.

My parents live on a cul-de-sac, and I hate to call thier neighbors out, but 3 of the 6 houses use a gardening service. Two of the three neighbors are quite capable of mowing thier own laws, the other is in his 70s, so I understand having the service. So why do the other 2 need these guys to show up twice a week or so to cut a lawn that they are 100% capable of doing themselves.

This mentaility is exactly what's wrong with this country, let someone else do it. 6 months from now, when everyone's crying about still not being able to get a job, they'll point the finger at someone else, just like they do now.

Posted by Freedom1 on December 3, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I understand that the Simi Valley City Council just approved a whole bunch more affordable units - let's get those lines started!
http://www.venturacountystar.com/news...

Posted by Tanker on December 3, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Citing scripture and threateneing the wrath of Jesus does not apply here. The reality is that CEDC is putting able bodied illegal immigrants directly into social dependency.

One could also cite scripture as not to decieve people or break laws. Illegal immigrants break the law by coming here and having anchor babies. This further allows CEDC to deceive the system at a cost to taxpayers.

All this is done to make Cabrillo Development rich. Rodney Fernandez lives in a big house on a hill. Don't be fooled, he's in it for the money. He doesn't care about your neighborhood or if you speak English.

In the bible, Jesus casts out the moneychangers who were profiting on people's sacrifices. CEDC should be cast out of Ventura.

Posted by klocjo11 on December 3, 2008 at 11:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by Freedom1 on December 3, 2008 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I understand that the Simi Valley City Council just approved a whole bunch more affordable units - let's get those lines started!
http://www.venturacountystar.com/news...

These units are strictly for seniors over the age of 62 who meet certain income requirements, and they are going to be purchased homes not low income rented homes.... before you jump to conclusions and judgement maybe you should do more research.

Posted by SPF1000 on December 3, 2008 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My fellow citizens: Affordable Housing is not something anyone is entitled to receive. Period. Please don't tell me (and yourself) that simply because you live in this community and someone has convinced you that you somehow qualify as a "minority," that it is the duty of my lower-middle class family, and all of my hard-working responsible neighbors to provide you with anything. Guess again. I grew up very poor with two brothers and a divorced mother supporting us all. The first car my family had was a 1961 Plymouth for $200.00 when I turned 16. I got the money for our first car by cashing in a life insurance policy my grandmother had been paying on my whole life. I worked my way through a California State College and I have been able to provide slightly better for my own family. I am in my middle fifty's, with a 984 square foot house that we purchased in 2000 after renting it for more then twelve years. We have only one child as that's all we could afford. My personal history describes many people in this country. I am asking my neighbors for nothing, and they owe me nothing. I've never been afraid of working and I am hopefully teaching my child to understand the connection between personal sacrifice and the well being of ones family. It's called taking responsibility. It makes me furious to see contributors such as "Imcventura" say "we have earned the right to better ourselves." Do you even hear yourself? I doubt it.

Posted by capt_jack on December 3, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Make the applications in English Only and go from there.

Posted by Freedom1 on December 3, 2008 at 4:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

klocjo11 - exactly what about my post needed more research? The property in Simi Valley is now identified by the City Council and the developer as "affordable housing." It is true that they are for senior citizens (62 and over), but eligiblity is also based on INCOME, just as it is for the Cabrillo developments. If I had bought one of those units for full price and then found out that 2/3's of the property would be selling for half or less than half of what I had paid I'd be very, very angry. Only a few of the units remain to be sold at market price (now several hundred thousand dollars less than they started at). The Federal government mandates that cities provide affordable housing, cities mandate that contractors assign a certain numbers of units as "affordable" and unless the entire development is "affordable housing" everyone else who buys shares the cost difference of those units as well as the taxpayers. I don't argue that there is a need for such assistance, I'm just concerned that it is becoming more and more expected. Both you and your husband sound like very hard working people. Hopefully one day that hard work will pay off for you both. Good luck.

Posted by opns on December 3, 2008 at 6:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How sad for the people who have bought there already. I saw it coming. Told my daughter not to buy there, thank god she took heed.

Before too long we'll hear about the gangbanging and shoot outs, stabbings there.

Posted by klocjo11 on December 4, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Freedom1 - It seems I was the one jumping to conclusions. I simply meant to say that the new afordable housing being offered in Simi-Valley is of a different breed. The affordable housing being offered ar Riverpark is open for anyone in the low-income bracket, whereas the affordable housing in Simi Valley is for the elderly who have limited incomes due to Social Security and/or disability.
I do agree that SOME people are beginning to have the feeling of entitlement when it comes to affordable housing, but I don't think this is the case for most people. I truly believe that the majority of people are grateful for the help.

Posted by yneemee on December 4, 2008 at 5:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Don't worry if you didn't get an apartment this time - pretty soon there will another ghetto on the other side of the freeway when they tear down the Wagon Wheel - maybe with some cool towers that will block ocean and mountain views as an added bonus.

Just don't expect the kids to want to go bowling or ice skating because those THINGS have no business being allowed to remain in Oxnard.

Don't worry Cabrillo about losing out in Santa Paula - just come back to Oxnard where Holden, Maulhardt, Zaragoza and Herrera will let you build any over-crowded project (ghetto) you want because they are the City That Cares... about Developers, that is !

Posted by littlepowers on December 4, 2008 at 7:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

These comments sicken me.

They are people who deserve a place to live too!!!

Posted by klewis1178 on December 4, 2008 at 8:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Rebel I agree with what you are saying am I am glad their are people like you in this place we call America. I have read most of these comments and it makes my blood boil when I see people saying that women choose to be single mothers. I am quite sure no woman says you know I am going to let this man use me and get me pregnant and then he can leave me to deal with this child all by myself. For the people who have a problem with the single young mother standing in line for something she can afford just remember it took two people to make that child. No one is breaking the doors down to fix the child support issue. So while you think the welfare system is handing out to the single mom actually the welfare system is stepping in for the deadbeat dad. For Ms. California I am glad your world is so perfect now. I would hate for something to happen to your husband or to you for that matter. You just keep praying that your life stays as perfect as it is. Like you said you were "Lucky" to be able to take your child to work with you and you had understanding parents everyone is not that lucky or even have parents. I am glad these people will get affordable housing and I hope that they appreciate the blessing and do not take it for granted. I hope the development people set good rules and live by them. So many times landlords just let the property go bad out of fear. If this place is going to be a low subsidized ghetto then I can understand why people would be mad. Unlike others though I know there is low income good hard working people.

Posted by live_for_purpose on December 5, 2008 at 5:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

imcventura--

The American Dream doesn't "belong" to any of us. You have to go out and earn it, not be given it by the taxpayers and good CITIZENS that so many like to take advantage of by being leaches.

Posted by heregoes on December 5, 2008 at 6:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

live_for_purpose I agree with you 100%.

Go out and earn your American dream, but stay of our taxpayer dime. Illegal immigrants need not apply.

Also, whoever said we should give welfare recipients mandatory birth control - I like that idea. Why should the taxpayer pay for people to sit at home and breed even more babies.

Posted by Tanker on December 5, 2008 at 7:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

klewis1178, ever heard of birth control? Yes, it takes two people to make a child. If you know you are in poverty, if you know you are not married, if you suspect the relationship might fail, THEN USE SOME SORT OF BIRTH CONTROL!!!

Women have fought hard many years for your right of free choice and control over your own body.

klewis1178 is a classic example of two people making a bad choice not to spend $2.00 for a condom and then ends up costing taxpayers $$$$$ for their social dependency.

This is the new millineum, ever heard of the concept of taking responsibility for your own actions?

Posted by Freedom1 on December 5, 2008 at 7:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

live_for_purpose - couldn't agree more. For generations past the fact that you had to earn the "American dream" was part of the definition. Unfortunately, recent generations, because of ever increasing generous welfare assistance programs for everything from education to free lunches, birth control to subsidized housing, became more of an entitlement. Perhaps this has become America's way of paying for all that "cheap labor" - which never has been "cheap." The America we grew up in simply doesn't exist any longer. So sad.

Posted by letg58 on December 5, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

blame the government not the ppl.OBAMA, it's time for change!
:)

Posted by VOPatrol on December 5, 2008 at 8:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Posted by littlepowers on December 4, 2008 at 7:20 p.m. They are people who deserve a place to live too!!!

Yes, they do deserve a place to live, but it doesn't *HAVE* to be in one of the most expensive places in the country. People WANT to live here, and from the article, and like I've said before, they sure don't seem like they do jobs they can't do in Barstow. Plus, they made the bad decisions in thier lives to not get an education, to have multiple children with limited income, to not do anything to better thier circumstances. I have to agree with the last few posters, if you're at the bottom of the economic ladder, DON'T HAVE LOADS OF CHILDREN. Yes it takes two to make a baby, but don't open your legs in the first place, and there's ZERO chance to get pregnant. Stupid people multiply like rabbits. Sorry, if you don't have money, DON'T HAVE ANY KIDS.