PRESERVE

Rosewood
courts

Americas
Oldest
Black
Public
Housing

Rosewood Courts Historic Preservation 101

Dr. Fred L. McGhee
Misunderstanding, miseducation and misinformation are swirling about the
Rosewood Courts case. This document is to state the FACTS and why it is
important and the right thing to do to support the preservation of Rosewood
Courts as is.
Q: Does preservation of rosewood courts prevent the Housing Authority from
renovating the property?
A: No.

Q: Does preservation of Rosewood Courts make it more expensive for the Housing
Authority to do upgrades?
A: Not necessarily.

Q: We have an affordable housing crisis. The HACA project would add more
housing. Why would you oppose that?
A: There are other places we can do densification. Places that could be cheaper.
Lets explore those options first.
Q: You care about buildings more than people you elitist such and such. What
about the people? What about the human element?
A: I have lived in public housing. I know what its like to grow up stealing for food
to eat, watching both parents in jail. I also know that public housing has made
me who I am today. To the residents, past and present of Rosewood Courts I say to
them I get it. I also know that you deserve better and this nomination fights for
that opportunity. But this is not about me. Theres no real money for me in this
and lord knows Im not making friends over here among the Austin establishment.
I also know there is a double standard in this town about whose history
matters.My tax money subsidizes rich West Austinites who live in million dollar
homes designated as historic. Ive read the rules on what it takes to be designated
historic and have checked every singlebox. Ive not just done my job, Ive exceeded
my job. My pathbreaking National Register nomination for Rosewood Courts was
done 100% pro bono. And as I mentioned, it does not prevent HACA from doing
upgrades and building more housing. I want fairness. I want justice. I want this
history to be treated with respect - just like any other history in Austin.
I want Rosewood Courts to be renovated so that its a place for people to be proud
to raise their children, live out their lives as seniors if need be. I know this can be
done because Ive seen it done successfully. My National Register nomination also
documents the New Deal origins of our nation's public housing program, so there

PRESERVE
Rosewood
courts

Americas
Oldest
Black
Public
Housing

is ample precedent for upgrading Rosewood. Historic preservation is not the

enemy of modernization; that is a false choice. There are many examples around
the world, and in the United States of doing this properly. We should demand,
especially as people of color, for HACA to walk and chew gum at the same time.
Its really not hard, once you understand what is actually possible.

Q: HACA has compromised to preserve 6 of the original buildings. Why cant you
be satisfied with that?
A: First you have to ask yourself if 6 was a compromise, what their original intent
was. Was it to destroy everything and completely dismantle the history? Their
track record has indicated that they and the city of Austin are not really interested
in preserving public housing history in Austin. Santa Rita Courts was listed in the
National Register over 7 years ago but is still not listed on the citys website.
Compromise would also entail a conversation with the people who want to preserve
Rosewood Courts. I havent gotten a call to have a serious conversation, neither
have my colleagues. There is no truth behind this.
Q: HACA has said that the buildings are really f-ed up and need to be taken down.
Whats your response?
A: First you have to wonder why that is the case. Why has HACA allowed this to
happen? Neglect? Time and time again across the country this is the same old
playbook. Housing authorities allow public housing to go into disrepair. Cry woe
is me, destroy the housing and replace it with substandard shiny new "spec"
projects. Meanwhile, displaced residents end up in Section 8 ghettoes, still in
poverty. Who makes money? Developers. Lawyers. Lobbyists. And non-profits.
Dont be fooled by the playbook. HACA has admitted they did not do their job in
upkeep. Why isnt the response take care of your business? My nomination
helps do that holds them accountable and responsible for taking care of their
business and not just doing whatever pet project that suits people who stand to
financially benefit all at taxpayer expense.
Q: What can I do to show support?
A: Send a letter to your city councilperson and the mayor showing your support for
preserving Rosewood Courts and the history of East Austin.
Visit us online:
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http://www.preserverosewood.org
http://www.facebook.com/preserverosewoodatx
@rosewoodatx

Email:

info@preserverosewood.org