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Frank Russo's Open Letter to President Trump

Frank Russo, the independent candidate for Governor of Florida, has penned an open letter to former President Donald J. Trump, appealing for his support to tackle Florida's growing affordability crisis. Russo, a committed supporter of Trump, highlights the urgent need for affordable housing for working families in all 67 counties of Florida and emphasizes the potential of private-sector solutions without relying on new government funds.

In his letter, Russo recounts attending Trump’s first inauguration and expresses admiration for Trump’s success in revitalizing the Wollman Rink in New York City, a project that took years to be completed by the city but was finished in just a few months under Trump’s guidance. He likens that achievement to the current challenge Florida faces with housing affordability, explaining that the state needs people with vision and determination, like Trump, to step in and lead the way.

Russo outlines a bold plan proposing the development of apartment communities consisting of 300 to 500 units in each county, with a focus on ensuring affordability. Specifically, he envisions that 60% of these units would cater to families earning at or below 80% of the area’s median income, with the remaining 40% designated for workforce housing. This initiative intends to shield essential local services and revenues while creating homes for many families struggling to find accessible housing within their communities.

The Details of the Proposal

The essence of Russo’s proposal can be summed up in a few critical points:

• - Scope: Establish a community comprising 300 to 500 apartment units per county.
• - Unit Distribution: 60% of the housing will be dedicated to families earning less than 80% of the area's median income, and 40% will serve workforce housing needs.
• - Funding Model: Russo emphasizes that this initiative should be funded entirely through private capital without necessitating new government dollars.
• - Impact on Local Revenue: Recognizing the challenges of maintaining local budgets, Russo highlights the importance of creating a financing structure that secures funding for local services, including schools and emergency services, during and after the construction of these housing units. This would ensure that the tax burden does not fall on working families or taxpayers.

In his appeal, Russo calls upon Trump to rally the backing of builders and business leaders to materialize this vision. He wants the President to lead by example and help kickstart the first housing community project, symbolizing unity and commitment to improving the lives of working families across Florida.

By urging Trump to take on the role of a catalyst in this housing initiative, Russo is asking for a demonstration of leadership that not only addresses housing needs but also inspires other states to follow suit. The phrase "Humanity over the dollar" encapsulates the spirit of Russo's appeal, stressing that the well-being of families should always come before profit margins.

Closing Thoughts

Frank Russo’s letter to President Trump serves as a broader call to action for addressing housing affordability in Florida. By leveraging private-sector capabilities and focusing on community-driven solutions, Russo aims to pioneer a new model for affordable housing that could transform the lives of many Floridians. As the campaign progresses, it will be essential to watch how this proposal unfolds and whether it ignites the necessary support to tackle the housing crisis head-on.

In a time where housing affordability remains a pressing issue across the United States, Russo’s initiative could potentially serve as a beacon of hope, marrying private investment with public need effectively, creating a sustainable solution that prioritizes families above all else.