Higgins Continues Push for Re­de­vel­opment of Perry Complex

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- BMHA Executive Director Dawn Sanders-Garrett says it would take $60 million to fully rehab the Commodore Perry housing complex, but the housing authority just doesn't have that kind of money.

Sanders-Garrett says they've steadily received less money annually for capital repairs.

"At one point in time, we received $14 million," Sanders-Garrett said. "Currently, we receive about $7.8 million. And those resources are to address the capital needs of the apartments to do kitchens, baths, buy screens, windows ..."

Last month, Rep. Brian Higgins (D-26) called on the BMHA to put out a request for proposal for private contractors and non-profits to see if there is any interest in re-developing 12 vacant apartments in the neighborhood.

He renewed that push Monday night at a Perry development resident council meeting.

"It's 172 units," Higgins said. "We've got to do something about it or they'll continue to deteriorate. They've been vacant for over 20 years, so taking a new approach toward development is probably best for everyone involved."

Higgins says he believes there would be a lot of interest with the city's high demand for student, market rate and low income housing.

Residents at the meeting, including Fatima HaSidi, were skeptical, saying they've been promised help before, only to be let down.

"I worked for the Perry Choice Organization under the premise that we were supposed to apply for a $30 million grant to refurbish the neighborhood, which never happened," HaSidi said.

Higgins says he understands that frustration, but says he will do everything he can to also secure federal funding to assist the neighborhood.

"I serve on the House Ways & Means Committee and the Budget Committee," Higgins said. "There's change in policy when it comes to housing all the time, and I think we can make a pretty strong case that the Perry neighborhood is deserving of investment of federal dollars."

Sanders-Garrett says she appreciates Higgins' help.

While she would not reveal her next step, she says it's important to continue dialogue with Higgins and residents to make sure they are on the same page moving forward.