To build or not to build
With the recent announcement of another housing development scheduled to break ground later next year, I can't help but wonder if Hillsboro can really afford to sustain yet another development.
I'm all about progressive behavior in small towns, but at some point, a line must be drawn.
Currently, the town has four major developments; two of which appear to be very popular, the other two uninhabited. Where are all of the people that were suppose to fill those homes? And the people that will fill the 100 more that will be built in spring.
Many have said Hillsboro is growing and that there is an expanding need for homes in the community. I just don't see the demand.
Another issue in all of this is Hillsboro needs homes that are "affordable" for potential residents. And according to Home Town Developers, the company proposing the modular home development, their houses will be affordable — between $80,000 and $100,000.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but when has $80,000 to $100,000 been affordable? And for a modular home for that matter? I have to admit, these prices seem awfully high for what they consider "low-to-moderate" housing.
Whatever happened to the days when contractors built houses from the ground up? If I build a house, I'll want to see my home built right in front of me, not see it transported to me from a remote factory in another state.
The most disturbing problem with this idea is not the homes that are being built, the quality of the homes, or the number, but rather, the reality that the plan is already under way.
Eric Clark
