Politics & Government

U.S. Rep. Capuano Challenges Sequestration, Apologizes

At an event in Milton on Thursday, Congressman Michael Capuano expressed concerns about budget cuts stemming from the sequester.

U.S. Congressman Michael Capuano was in Milton on Thursday for a Community Development Week event where he took his time in front of the audience to apologize for the sequestration stalemate and extend some strong words to his colleagues in the nation's capital. 

"The people of America are better than what's happening in Washington right now," Capuano said.

The Somerville Democrat, who represents Milton's first, fifth and tenth precincts as part of the Seventh Congressional District, began his remarks with congratulations to those responsible for the five-room group home for disabled adults and then apologized.

Find out what's happening in Miltonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I want to apologize on behalf of the federal government," said Capuano, pointing out that the sequestration could effect projects like this that are funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). 

The funding for the new facility off Brush Hill Road was provided by HUD, the South Shore HOME Consortium and the Massachusetts' Department of Housing and Community Development. The project was also sponsored by Work Inc., a Dorchester-based organization that has provided housing and services to individuals with disabilities for over 45 years.

Since 1992, the South Shore HOME Consortium municipalities have received over $13.5 million for the communities' specific affordable housing needs.

Find out what's happening in Miltonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Capuano explained that while the residents of the new Milton facility will not be ousted, funding for future group homes, as well as money for children and senior programming are at risk.

"I think this is exactly the kind of program the government should be doing," Capuano said.

The Congressman said he believes the issue will be resolved and that with cooperation projects like the HUD HOME grants can still be funded. 

Read more about the ribbon cutting event here.


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