Rep. Sweeney Announces $8.5 million in Housing Support for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
COLUMBUS – State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Westlake) announced that the State Controlling Board approved $8.5 million for the purpose of continuing to develop community housing for people with developmental disabilities all around the state including projects in Cuyahoga County.
“People with disabilities have the right to choose where they live, but that right means nothing without real options. That’s why I fought for the release of $8.5 million to build and renovate homes in Ohio neighborhoods, making community living, not just institutional care, a real choice for Ohioans with developmental disabilities,” said Rep. Sweeney. “It's a process, not a finish line. Waiting lists still exist, and the legislature must do more to ensure real choice reaches everyone on them.”
The funds will be used to continue to develop community housing for people with developmental disabilities who are or will be receiving Medicaid waiver services. The funds will benefit individuals leaving a state-operated developmental center, leaving a private or county-operated intermediate care facility, people with complex care needs who prefer to live in their community, and people on a county board of developmental disabilities' waiting list for waiver services.
This money will allow Ohioans with disabilities choose a more appropriate residence and care based on their individual experiences. Approximately $2.3 million is allocated specifically for Cuyahoga County. The money will be used for 13 projects that include purchasing houses; renovate bathrooms, roofs, and HVAC; and add ADA accessible ramps and doors for residents. By allowing people to live where they want while receiving care, it demonstrates the power of community in caring for those with developmental disabilities.
Other approved items include:
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- $53K to create a new lease for commercial real estate office space in Cuyahoga County for the Department of Public Safety Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
- $25M for The Department of Natural Resources to purchase approximately 7,934 acres of property throughout the State for forestry and wildlife habitats.
- $3.5M to the The Ohio Department of Agriculture to protect the waters of the State, provide mental health services to rural communities, and ensure the safe and efficient use of pesticides.