Page Critical of Missouri Housing Development Commission

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – An audit of the Missouri Housing Development Commission released today revealed that only 35 cents from every dollar spent on tax credits for the Low Interest Housing Tax Credit program goes toward constructing new housing. The remaining 65 cents goes toward administrative costs and other uses that don't build more housing for Missouri 's poorest citizens.

Governor Matt Blunt and Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder sit on the MHDC; the Commission is charged to provide quality, safe, affordable housing for Missouri 's moderate and low income citizens.

The Commission also administers the federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit, Missouri Low Income Housing Tax Credit and the Affordable Housing Assistance Tax Credit; and operates a housing trust fund for very low-income Missourians to help prevent homelessness and provide emergency housing assistance

"It is beyond my understanding," said State Representative Sam Page, "but every time Blunt and Kinder are charged with helping the poor, they cut and run."

Page is a Democratic candidate for Lt. Governor in a field of eight who have filed to replace Kinder.