Monthly Archive for March, 2005

Page 7 of 7

Increase in Homeless in Past Year

Homelessness is on the rise in the area, according to a census released by the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission. The number of homeless in C’ville, Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson has climbed from 156 to 175, though the number that are without any type of shelter has declined, thanks to People And Congregations Engaged in Ministry. 45% of the homeless people surveyed hold down full- or part-time jobs (but can’t save enough money for first and last month’s rent on an apartment), 5% have panhandled, 6% have received Social Security, and just 3% have received unemployment. Since last fall, PACEM has been taking in homeless men who would otherwise by denied entry to other facilities, a result of the gap between the Salvation Army (sobriety required) and the Mohr Center (serious intoxication required). John Yellig had the story in yesterday’s Progress.

Van Yahres to Retire

Delegate Mitch Van Yahres (D-Charlottesville) announced this evening that he will not be running for reelection. After 24 years in office, Mitch has cited both age and the need for a new generation of leadership as reasons ending his lengthy service in the House of Delegates. Cue a half dozen Democrats and one foolish brave Republican declaring their candidacy. Press release follows, and the Progress already has a story by Bob Gibson on their website, which is impressive.
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Rooker Running for BOS Reelection

Board of Supervisors Chair Dennis Rooker, elected in the Jack Jouett district, has announced that he will run for re-election in this November’s election, hoping for a second four-year term. Rooker cites his desire to complete the work that he’s started, including the rural areas portion of the Comprehensive Plan, solving the water shortage, and instituting a mountaintop protection ordinance. Julie Stavitski has the story in today’s Progress.

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