Chapter 32 - The DeadlineThe city housing commission announced that it would vote on the Harbor Row financing package in five weeks.
The redevelopment proposal promised new commercial buildings, improved streets, and hundreds of construction jobs.
It also offered relatively little assurance that existing residents could afford to return.
Elias spread the architectural drawings across the community center floor.
"These buildings aren't beyond repair," he said.
Kalista knelt beside him.
"How much?"
"More than anyone wants to spend. But substantially less than demolishing everything and replacing it with luxury apartments."
He showed her the independent inspection reports.
Roofs needed replacement.
Electrical systems required major upgrades.
Several stairwells would need structural reinforcement.
But many of the buildings could be preserved.
"Can we create a proper rehabilitation plan before the hearing?"
"Yes. If we have the engineers, the funding, and enough time."
Kalista began calculating.
Elias gently touched the paper.
"Don't do that."
"Do what?"
"Decide you're paying for everything."
She looked at him.
"I'm good with numbers."
"I know. But this neighborhood needs a financial model that survives after you leave."
Kalista studied him.
That was the difference between an impressive rescue and a lasting solution.
She called Marcus.
"Find experts in community land trusts. People who know how to structure resident-led ownership."
"Are you planning an acquisition?"
"Only if the residents choose it."
"And your company?"
"Keep it separate. No hidden financial interests."
Marcus paused.
"You've changed."
Kalista smiled faintly.
"People keep telling me that."
That evening, Elias accompanied her through the neighborhood.
Children played basketball beneath the fading sunlight.
Somewhere, music drifted from an open window.
Kalista stopped beside an old brick building.
"What if we fail?"
Elias considered the question.
"Then we tell people the truth and help them protect themselves as best we can."
She looked at him.
"You're not afraid of losing?"
"Of course I am."
He smiled.
"I'm just more afraid of promising something I can't deliver."
Kalista reached for his hand.
May you like
Only for a moment.
But neither of them hurried to let go.
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