Republican candidate for Allegheny County Executive D. Raja has released a policy plan that he says will improve quality of life for senior citizens.
"I started my own business, and when you ask me, 'What is the most valuable asset?' it's clearly the employees, and when you ask me 'What is the most valuable asset in the county?' I would say it's our seniors," said Raja.
His plan proposes ensuring seniors have access to reliable transit, jobs, and education. He said he'd also like to see more seniors become involved in the community through volunteering, mentoring, or sitting on boards.
"And the beauty is it would be part time, they could work part time — it's a great fit and it's an area where seniors can be active and give their knowledge to the younger generation," said Raja.
Raja also proposes a property tax freeze for low-income seniors. He said the plan is modeled after one already in place in Philadelphia. He argues that making sure seniors know how much property tax they have to pay is key for those living on a fixed income, and in some cases would make the difference between staying in their homes or having to sell.
Raja said this is the eighth and final policy plan he'll roll out before Election Day on November 8.
