Helpful credits

As Governor Eric Greitens’ tax commission begins holding meetings to study tax reform proposals, they shouldn’t ignore success stories for tax credit programs like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC).

I was involved in a devastating car accident eight years ago that left me as a quadriplegic. Since then, I’ve been undergoing rehab and unable to afford my own place at fair market value.

With the reduced rent offered by the Villas at the Summit, made possible by the LIHTC program, I can now afford my own transportation, pursue my own interests, and be an asset to the community of Maryville.

I’ve graduated from Northwest with a degree in Industrial Psychology.

I’m currently waiting for modifications on my van so I can drive and be able to pursue a career in my field. I believe I would not be this successful without having an affordable, safe, quality place to live — one that is universally designed so that I am able to easily get around and maintain my independence. And without this option, I would have wound up in a nursing home with increased doctor’s visits and additional costs.

Communities like this one are helping Missourians who are working to reclaim their self-sufficiency while saving money for taxpayers. I hope the governor’s tax commission doesn’t dismiss the value of tax credits like LIHTC, which provide housing opportunities for people like me who are working every day to get back to work and earn our own place to live.

— Phyllis Ware

Maryville