Rehabilitation Support Services (RSS) is proposing an affordable housing development called "Solstice Commons" in the 6th ward of Oneonta. The housing would be available to people who make 30-70% of the median income in the area, and to some people living with mental illness.
Visit 6thWard.org for more information Solstice Commons
There is a Public Hearing scheduled for Tuesday, February 24th at 7 PM in the Riverside Elementary School cafeteria. If you are unable to attend you can submit your comments in advance to cityinfo@oneonta.ny.us.
Letter to the Oneonta Planning Commission.
Please feel free to write the letter in your own words and from the heart.
The part in bold indicates key items to include.
[Replace text in brackets with personal details.]
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]
—
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.