The Advocate–A Household Word in Everett! Vol. 29, No.41 -FREEwww.advocatenews.net Free Every Friday 617-387-2200 Friday, October 9, 2020 DiDomenico’s Right to Counsel bill offers housing relief By Christopher Roberson W Banking with a hometown touch. Open a free checking account with no monthly fees, and get access to Mobile Banking, Bill Pay and other features. Because no matter where you go, we’re right by you. Call or visit us to sign up. 419 BROADWAY, EVERETT MA 02149 771 SALEM ST, LYNNFIELD, MA 01940 WWW.EVERETTBANK. COM ith the moratorium on evictions and foreclosures set to expire on October 17, State Senator Sal DiDomenico has fi led a bill that would give residents the chance to remain in their homes by providing them with legal representation in Housing Court. “We don’t have any more time; we have to act,” he said during an online community meeting hosted on October 6 by the Everett Affordable Housing Task Force. “If we don’t do something, we’re going to have a real emergency on our hands.” At a projected cost of $6 million, the Right to Counsel bill would be funded by the federal CARES Act. DiDomenico said 80 percent Right by you. Member FDIC Member DIF of property owners are accompanied by a lawyer during a Housing Court proceeding. In contrast, “seven to eight” percent of tenants are able to afford legal counsel. “It really is a no-win situation for families going into court,” he said. “It’s an intimidating place.” However, property owners are supportive of the bill. “They want to resolve these disputes and keep people in their homes,” said DiDomenico, adding that property ownSal DiDomenico State Senator ers would be eligible for tax credits to recoup lost rental fees. In addition, he said it costs approximately $50,000 per year to have even one family in a shelter. Putting families in shelters also creates a health problem as it only accelerates the spread of COVID-19. The bill is backed by Mayor Carlo DeMaria, Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, Chelsea Mayor Thomas Ambrosino, the state’s federal delegation and 147 nonprofi t organizations. “It has widespread support in Honoring Ersilia COUNSEL | SEE PAGE 18 LOVING REMEMBRANCE: Gina Maniscalco, along with her parents Elvira and Giuseppe Cataldo thanked all who virtually walked and raised funds in honor of her sister, Ersilia at the second Annual 5K Walk For Ersilia ceremonies at Glendale Park on Saturday. See page 9 for photo highlights. (Advocate photo by Josh London).
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