RSS Housing LETTER TEMPLATE/GUIDE

Letter Template:

Dear Planning Commission,

I am writing in support of the RSS Supportive Housing Project, Solstice Commons, on 164 River Street (vacant lot on West Broadway). I believe that this project will benefit our community and provide much needed affordable housing to Onetonta.

I urge you to approve this project as it is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan, housing study and zoning code. The site plan complies with zoning code and has been designed with robust public feedback in mind. The project will have minimal negative environmental impacts. In fact, it’s sited on already disturbed/developed property, as opposed to a greenfield. 

[Other Key Points to mention (pick the ones that you feel strongest about):

Solstice Commons Is a Place of Beauty

• Preserves existing tree lines, green space, and natural buffers
  Architecture inspired by the local landscape, using warm, natural materials
  Outdoor areas designed for connection, including walking paths, green spaces, and seating

Solstice Commons Is a Place of Wellness

• 61 high-quality, affordable apartments for local residents

• 31 supportive units for individuals recovering from serious mental illness, all living independently with individualized wellness plans

• Voluntary supportive services on-site; this is not a treatment facility or homeless shelter

• Expands the local mental health workforce and strengthens community supports

Solstice Commons Is a Place of Safety

• Fair and transparent tenant selection, including:

  • Public lottery at lease-up

  • Income verification

  • Credit, criminal, and landlord reference checks

• Professionally managed property ensuring a safe and well-maintained building

• Research shows supportive and affordable housing reduces homelessness and increases neighborhood stability

• Site design minimizes traffic impacts on River Street

Solstice Commons Is a Place of Sustainability

• $32 million development funded through private LIHTC investment and New York State support—no local tax burden

• Solstice Commons pays all water and sewer infrastructure costs and ongoing usage

• Energy-efficient building systems and strong stormwater protections

• Pursuit of a fair and equitable PILOT contribution to the local tax base

Who RSS Serves Locally

• RSS currently serves 114 residents in Oneonta and 44 across Otsego County

• Tenants may include working individuals, families, people returning to work after illness, individuals with disabilities, and people who have experienced homelessness

• Solstice Commons is designed to meet the needs of people who already live and work in Otsego County

Why Solstice Commons Matters

• Responds directly to Oneonta’s shortage of high-quality, affordable housing

• Offers stability for workers, families, and individuals on wellness journeys

• Brings jobs, investment, and long-term economic benefits to the Sixth Ward and the City of Oneonta]

On a more personal note, [include any personal feelings or connection you have to the need for supportive housing and/or RSS.]

Thank you for your time and consideration on this important matter. Oneonta is a certified Pro-Housing community in New York, and approving this project is fully in line with our values as a city. Please move forward with this project.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Full Address]

—

Email:

planningcommission@oneonta.ny.com
cityinfo@oneonta.ny.us

Or bring letters to the Public Hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 24th at 7:00 PM at Riverside Elementary School in Oneonta.