Issues & Political Concerns
Time for Change
Affordable Housing
In Seaford, 1 in 4 residents live in poverty, more than double the state average (12%). While homelessness is declining statewide (15% in 2018), Seaford saw a 20% increase, according to the Housing Alliance of Delaware. More than half (55%) of 3,600 Seaford students live in poverty, and 26% are homeless. There are 13 low-income housing apartment communities in Seaford with a median rent of $732 per month citywide. We must create a citywide initiative towards homeownership for the residents who currently rent. Mr. Benson is currently working with a group of families in a program he has titled the “Renters to Homebuyers Initiative”. This initiative is an effort to help families create wealth through the process of homeownership, as well as help the City of Seaford decrease the level of poverty and homelessness among its residents. Jeff has partnered with various organizations to help the participants with budgeting, credit building and education advancement to ensure the success of the initiative.
Economic Development
Many Seaford residents have low paying jobs in construction, food service, poultry and manufacturing industries. With a median gross income of $38,145, Seaford is in desperate need of an infusion of economic development. Strategically, we must work with the State of Delaware and organizations like the Prosperity Partnership to alert some of these companies who have a track record in growing workforces in rural areas like ours. The residents of the city need living wage jobs in order to become financially stable and invest back into the Seaford community. Mr. Benson will work with local entrepreneurs and create a community led economic development plan with fresh ideas and innovation.
Enhanced Broadband
During the current pandemic, we quickly recognized how important internet access is for our residents. High-speed affordable internet to every home and business represents basic infrastructure for Seaford in the 21st century. It means jobs, education, health care, and access to services across the digital divide; all key elements of a sustainable city. The success of a Broadband Strategic Plan will have important benefits for the city’s economic development strategy, affordable homeownership strategy and begin to rescind the burden of the current economic recession within the city.
