At recent meetings of the Vermilion City Council on February 3 and the Vermilion Township Trustees on February 5, Serving Our Seniors Executive Director Sue Daugherty urged local leaders to take action in response to a growing senior housing crisis.
Sue Daugherty speaks at Vermilion Township Board of Trustees Meeting (2:20 mark).
Daugherty, whose organization serves Erie County residents aged 60 and older, emphasized the urgent need for affordable housing solutions. She asked city and township officials to consider revising zoning ordinances to allow for small, modest homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), such as “granny flats” or in-law suites, in residential backyards. These options, she said, could provide retirees with affordable housing while allowing them to remain in the community.
Since October, Serving Our Seniors has hired Amy Bowman-Moore, formerly with Erie County Metroparks, as a fundraiser and grant writer. Bowman-Moore is developing a strategic plan to support the creation of small, affordable housing units. Daugherty urged council members not to lose sight of the issue and to ensure local ordinances are conducive to these housing solutions.
Public Forum on Real Estate Taxes
To help seniors better understand real estate taxes and their impact on housing affordability, Serving Our Seniors will host a public forum at Ritter Public Library, 5680 Liberty Ave., Vermilion:
- March 4, 2025 (1:30 PM – 3 PM): Vermilion city residents
- March 7, 2025 (1:30 PM – 3 PM): Vermilion Township residents
A minimum of 30 participants per session is required; otherwise, the two forums will be combined into one on March 7. Advance registration is required by February 25. Residents can register by calling 419-504-0585 or emailing MAIL@ServingOurSeniors.org with their name, phone number, and preferred forum date.
Council Members Weigh In
At-Large Councilman Gary Howell shared that he has had preliminary discussions with Service Director Tony Valerius regarding zoning. A local developer has expressed interest in building small housing units, and officials are reviewing zoning regulations, though no formal plans have been submitted yet. Daugherty requested to stay in contact with the administration, to which Howell agreed.
Ward 5 Councilman Brian Holmes suggested making the forum accessible through an audio recording for those unable to attend. Daugherty noted that general information on the topic is available on the Serving Our Seniors website.
Ward 3 Councilman Drew Werley voiced strong support for ADUs, citing their success in other areas. He pointed out that Vermilion’s zoning code is over 60 years old and should be re-evaluated to allow for modern housing solutions, including multi-family dwellings.
Bowman-Moore addressed the council, explaining that Erie County’s rental market is undersupplied. While a healthy rental market typically consists of 4-6% available units, Erie County is currently at only 4%. She is working with contractors and developers to create solutions for seniors looking to downsize.
Mayor Jim Forthofer asked for an example of a community that has successfully implemented ADUs. Daugherty cited Zanesville, Ohio, where independent builders have developed small, affordable homes to address housing needs.
Council President Steve Herron stated that he would approach the administration about forming a task force or committee to address zoning concerns and explore potential solutions, recognizing that the senior housing crisis is a growing issue not just in Vermilion but across larger cities as well.
As our community struggles financially, we must not overlook those who helped build it—our seniors. Many have spent decades contributing to the local economy, raising families, and shaping the town we enjoy today. Yet, with rising rental costs and fixed incomes, too many are now struggling to afford a place to live. Ensuring they can age with dignity and stability isn’t just an act of compassion—it’s a responsibility. By prioritizing affordable housing solutions, we reaffirm that our town values every generation, not just those with the means to keep up with an evolving economy.
