Letter to the Editor: Councilwoman Christian Voices Opposition to Pennrose Development

While speaking with some of my constituents this weekend, it became apparent that many residents believe the Pennrose Development has already been formally approved by Norristown Council, and that all Council members support it.

At the March 18^th Pennrose public meeting, I expressed my concerns about this project. Unfortunately Carl Rotenberg did not print my comments in his Times Herald follow-up article.

During the meeting I questioned the presentation of the maximum amount versus minimum amount a person could earn to be eligible for one of the subsidized units. In addition, I questioned the decision to offer more opportunities to use housing vouchers while questioning the concentration of housing vouchers in Norristown and Pottstown. I also questioned the belief that the project would attract new businesses to our downtown area.  

I believe businesses with products or services to sell prefer to locate in areas that are populated by residents with disposable income as people on tight budgets are less inclined to spend their money on luxuries such as restaurants, theaters and unneeded clothing and accessories.

Norristown Council has not formally approved this development, and I do not support it. 

Linda Christian, Councilwoman Norristown – 3^rd District