Seniors Face Severe Rent Increases at Fayetteville Apartment Complex
Wedington Place Senior Apartments in Fayetteville is in the midst of a controversy as its residents, many elderly and disabled, face significant rent hikes. The changes were announced with a notice on August 6, revealing that rent for a two-bedroom apartment will rise from 0 to 50, representing a 53% increase. For one-bedroom units, the rent will increase from 0 to 0, a 73% jump. This sudden and substantial rent hike has left many seniors with a daunting decision: either absorb the increased cost or struggle to find alternative housing options.
The reasoning behind the price increase is attributed to the complex not being listed at “market rate.” Consequently, this change is affecting seniors who live on fixed incomes, making it difficult for them to cope. To mitigate this impact, residents and community members have been organizing and seeking help from local officials and resources.
The situation is particularly harsh for those who heavily rely on local transit. For instance, Rosa Floyd’s parents, who have dementia and cerebral palsy, face the reality of losing access to transit if they are forced to relocate due to the high rent. The paratransit system they currently use is crucial for their independence and would be difficult to replace if they moved to a different area.
State officials, too, are involved, as Arkansas State Senator Greg Leding has been actively fighting for renter rights in the state. According to him, Arkansas is the worst state for renters, with Fayetteville itself having over 60% of its population living in renter homes. This underscores the broader struggle for affordable housing that this community is facing.
In response, residents and their families are pushing for change. For instance, Michael Floyd is working on a legislative proposal that would cap rent increases at 30% of a senior’s income and tie annual increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), keeping them within a reasonable range of 3% to 4%. This proposal is an effort to address the long-standing issue of affordable housing in the area.
The plight of these seniors serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many vulnerable populations. As the residents of Wedington Place Senior Apartments work to navigate this difficult situation, it highlights the need for continued support and advocacy for more affordable and accessible housing options.
