To the Editor:
I have read numerous times the complaints about underage persons living in our 55+ community.
I get the impression that many residents believe that this is ONLY for persons 55 or older but in reality, the guidelines are clear.
First, there is the Fair Housing Act that defines who may obtain housing.
In Florida it is chapter 760 of Florida Statutes. Then there is the federal guidelines of the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA).
Both establish the so called 80/20 rule. That is to say at least 80 percent of a 55+ community must have at least one person in the household 55 or older. The other 20 percent can be available for those persons who are not 55.
So as many previous writers have pointed out younger persons living among them, there is no violation of the HOPA quota.
I hope this information has cleared up any confusion residents may have.
C J O’Neill
Village of Belle Aire
