Having been pre-empted by the precariously perched pornographic perils of PT’s (whew!), the second installment of my exclusive investigative report into Audelia Manor was bumped to this month.
Although I personally felt I should do another column on PT’s, potentially requiring personal visits to enhance my research, I know you all have been on the edge of your lawn chairs wanting to hear the rest of the story about Lake Highlands’ very own public housing complex.
Although perceived by the neighborhood from its beginning in 1984 as a complex for elderly residents only, Audelia Manor was just officially designated as a complex for the elderly in 1995. Prompt decision-making can be hazardous to a government agency’s health.
The Dallas Housing Authority (DHA) defines “elderly” as anyone 62 years of age or older. Before 1995, there was no such official limitation, which is why there are more than 22 residents under 62 currently living in the complex.
Although a new resident will have to meet the definition of “elderly,” those under 62 living there at the time the age requirement went into effect will be allowed to stay (and presumably “grow into” compliance).
DHA requires each resident to pay at least $25 a month in rent. To the extent income permits, residents must also pay 10 percent of their gross income or 30 percent of their net income, whichever is greater.
DHA disclosed that there are some residents at the complex who are mentally or physically disabled. However, I have been assured by DHA that, contrary to rumors, Audelia Manor is not being used as a halfway house for mental patients. Those folks go straight to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C.
In response to one of my questions, DHA said there is no crime problem at the complex. I checked with the Northeast police station, and their records indicate that, so far in 1997, there have been five reported crimes; however, residents have called 911 more than 70 times. Either someone at Audelia Manor thinks there is a crime problem, or calling 911 must be one of their organized activities.
I spoke with one resident who has lived at Audelia Manor for several years, and she generally gave the complex high marks. She conceded that there was once a crime problem at the complex, but she said it has since been addressed by better security on the premises (like calling 911 every other day).
She also admitted that there have been a number of mental patients and alcoholics living at the complex in the past, but they all have since become professional athletes.
I also learned that one of our neighborhood churches, Lake Highlands United Methodist, has an outreach program to Audelia Manor, which has been active for almost a year and includes weekly church services and Bible studies, as well as a “game day” and other activities.
As with most situations with which we are unfamiliar, ignorance permits perceptions that often can be inaccurate. Knowing more sometimes means fearing less.
Sometimes our fears are justified, but sometimes they are dispelled. In the end, knowledge is a good thing; at least, that’s what the encyclopedia salesman told me. Unlike today’s Army, we should not be hesitant to ask or reluctant to tell about what is going on in our neighborhood.
Instead of viewing Audelia Manor as an isolated complex within the Lake Highlands community, perhaps we should follow the lead of Lake Highlands United Methodist Church and make the residents feel like they are a part of our neighborhood.
If nothing else, it is a community whose housing is subsidized by taxpayers. Go by and look at your investment. Meet the people. Make a few 911 calls, and break the ice. Who knows, you might make a friend.
I, for one, enjoy a good game of bingo.
