April 26, 2002
REP. GONZALEZ PROTECTS RIGHTS OF FORMER RICE HEIGHTS RESIDENTS
State Representative Minnie Gonzalez (D-Hartford), Vice Chair of Select Committee on Housing, announced today her involvement with former Rice Heights residents to ensure they are provided first priority to apply for the new homes to be built on the former property of Rice Heights Complex as well as technical state assistance in order to purchase the homes.
"It is my goal to encourage any former resident of Rice Heights to apply for one of the new Rice Height homes," said Rep. Gonzalez. "It is their right as citizens, after being removed from their old property, to have a chance to reside in the same area without interruption and given equal access to the new homes."
Rice Heights Complex was torn down in the Sheldon/Charter Oak section of Hartford last year and all residents were required to find new residencies. In previous years, Charter Oak neighborhood residents were required to move in order to build new housing but were not provided the opportunity to remain in the area where new housing had been built.
Rep. Gonzalez states, "After seeing firsthand what occurred with the residents of Charter Oak, it is my struggle to make sure that this is not repeated with the residents of Rice Heights. Last year, I worked to pass a bill in the state legislature that protects the rights of all former Rice Heights residents. They have first priority to apply for these homes and under this law, the state of Connecticut is required to cooperate with all former Rice Heights residents in helping to purchase one of these new homes."
In addition to the new homes, a breakthrough Charter School will be built in the Rice Heights neighborhood. The construction of the school will not reduce the number of homes planned. The homes that are not constructed in the immediate area will be constructed in the neighboring areas. The school will be home to many programs that benefit both the children and adults of the community.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call Rep. Minnie Gonzalez at the State Capitol 240-8514 or at home 236-9654.