By Robert Zeigler
Regarding my decision to run for recorder of deeds in Centre County, my goal for this position was not to just be the office, but to also lead the office.
From knocking on many doors, regardless of political affiliation, blighted properties and affordable housing come up as issues the people want addressed or at least some help to address.
The recorder of deeds’ office can collect fees associated with deeds to help the county address blighted properties (Act 152) and fund affordable housing initiatives (Act 137). This is typically accomplished through a county ordinance, which Centre County is in great need of a revamped ordinance.
Centre County only collects $11.50 in affordable housing fees, none of which addresses blighted properties. Both Act 152 and Act 137 come from Republican-led legislation that had strong bipartisan support to enable counties to be able to address these issues. Yet, Centre County is behind in these initiatives compared to many of our peers across the commonwealth.
As a Fourth Class County in Pennsylvania, Centre County has the highest cost for housing and yet has about the average household income. Clearly, something needs done.
Affordable housing is a major issue and I believe the county needs to expand the work it is doing, particularly when it comes to veteran housing, whether it is a first-time homebuyer, rental assistance or home rehabilitation. The $11.50 in a 30-year mortgage is less than 40 cents a year. For myself, I have no problem chipping in a dollar a year if it means our veterans, the elderly or those with disabilities can have safe and proper shelter. The job of an elected official is to address issues of our communities, lead initiatives to do so, and strengthen our communities for a better tomorrow. And I intend to fully fulfill that duty and obligation.
We have a way to make things happen here to make sure our veterans are taken care of for the service they have done, so let’s make it happen. We can give a hand up to those that need it, and that’s why I’m running for Centre County recorder of deeds.
Robert Zeigler is the Democratic candidate for Centre County recorder of deeds in the Nov. 7, 2023 election.
