The Barre-Montpelier Times Argus published an opinion piece today by former VHFA Board of Commissioners Chairman Richard White.
In the piece, titled "State conservation board's work is essential," Richard writes, "It is no accident that Vermont ranks last in the country in the rate of foreclosure or that the 2004 study of Vermont's housing nonprofits had high praise for the system that Vermont has built over the last quarter century.
"Our local banks engaged in responsible lending, and regional housing agencies have provided homeownership counseling and foreclosure intervention work for years.
"Furthermore, our system of local nonprofit housing organizations has provided smart growth, preservation-oriented housing development that has enhanced our heritage and our sense of community."