During Monday's meeting of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Mount Vernon District Supervisor Gerald Hyland questioned why "several affordable dwelling units" in the Lorton Valley community have remained vacant for two years.
"These units are not only affordable, but also unique in the fact that they are specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. These units set the standard for future development and address a distinct aspect of the affordable housing issue -- those with long term disability," Hyland said.
They exhibit the principles of universal design with lowered counter tops and light switch, freezers at the bottom of refrigerators instead of at the top, and accessible parking, according to Hyland. Yet, they remain empty "nearly two years after their completion," he told his Board colleagues.
"These units are an integral part of Fairfax County's commitment to affordable housing and need to be occupied as soon as possible," he said. To accomplish that Hyland requested the Board direct the County Executive and Housing Authority to investigate why they remain vacant and report those finding directly to him.