AUGUSTA - Rep. Cheryl Golek, D-Harpswell, was presented the Maine People's Alliance (MPA) Rising Tide Award for her work to address Maine's housing crisis during the first session of the 131st Legislature. The award was presented at the organization's annual banquet on Sept. 28.
"We all know that the key to success for Maine families is safe, affordable housing," said Golek, who serves on the Legislature's Joint Select Committee on Housing. "Without it, people cannot work, children cannot learn, individuals cannot be safe and healthy and our state cannot thrive. Access to housing is a human right, and I look forward to continuing this important work when the Legislature reconvenes in January."
Maine's housing shortage is one of the most pressing challenges facing the state. According to a recent study, the states needs more than 80,000 new homes to meet demand by 2030. Last session, Rep. Golek worked collaboratively with other members of the Housing Committee to pass measures that face this challenge head-on. This includes a $100 million investment in the production of affordable housing and emergency housing initiatives such as the new Housing First Program.
"After serving on a legislative commission to address our housing crisis, Representative Golek walked in her first year as a legislator with reforms to the housing voucher system that will tackle so many of the problems that voucher holders face," said Cate Blackford, MPA's public policy director.
Golek is serving her first term in the Maine House and, in addition to sitting on the Joint Select Committee on Housing, is a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. She represents District 99, which includes parts of Brunswick and Harpswell.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Golek], c. 305-965-2744