OAKMONT – AFFORDABILITY

Once again our village finds itself in campaign mode. While we contemplate our choices for a seat at the table of the OVA Board of Directors, we keep in mind that our village is transitioning to something different than its heritage of affordable retirement living for a wide diversity of people.

Whom we select to lead the community in the next few years, will determine – in part – whether or not we remain a recommendable destination to a broad and diversified segment of retirees, or metamorphose into an elitist conclave (Oakmont in the Wall Street Journal) reserved for an affluent clientele.

Oakmont in its 60 year of existence is part and parcel of a rapidly gentrifying environment that of the coveted Sonoma Valley. Like its winemaking Neighbor, the Napa Valley, the reputation as a last home has nationwide increased. The pressure on prices is both a benefit and a disadvantage for many residents who moved here years ago and are faced with dwindling financial resources.

Sixty percent of residents are women, having to deal with the loss of their husband’s pension, relaying solely on their own resources. Increased longevity is both a blessing and a challenge which they must navigate alone.

Affordability is THE watchword for the 2024 Oakmont Board of Directors election.

Let us keep that exigency close to our hearts and our minds.