Update on the Lamplighter Salinas Project

Lamplighter Salinas had a lot going for it: a great location just off Hwy 101, attractive trees and landscaping, a large Clubhouse/Rec Center with adjoining pool and grassy picnic area, a grammar school and community park just across the street. The only problem was that management was not exactly friendly to residents. It was a major problem.

Resident activities were non-existent. The Clubhouse was often locked – management even removed the spa because it encouraged resident to gather and socialize.  That all ended when the ICFA partnered with Millennium Housing to implement a new vision for Lamplighter.

Using bonds and other assistance provided by ICFA, Millennium acquired Lamplighter and completely changed the culture. With Millennium’s encouragement, logistical help and financial support, Lamplighter has enjoyed a variety of well-attended events including  parties, bingo, potlucks, even a Health Fair–not particularly unusual in other communities but unheard-of in Lamplighter.

A Summer highlight was the Millennium-sponsored Back-to-School Party, at which more than 100 Lamplighter children did crafts, ate pizza and received brand new backpacks filled with free grade-appropriate school supplies.  We even had a guest appearance from the City Council Member who represents our district. That never happened in the bad old days!

Thanks to ICFA’s involvement, Lamplighter’s residents have such pride in their community that they encourage their friends and relatives to join them as homeowners.