Despite strong opposition from residents, a Wake County committee approved a plan to convert a Raleigh apartment complex into affordable housing, clearing the way for final approval from Wake County Commissioners.

The Wake County Affordable Housing Committee met this afternoon and held a public hearing regarding a plan from CASA, a Raleigh non-profit developer, to use public money to buy the George's Mews Apartments on Washington St. and convert them to affordable housing.

Several frustrated residents spoke during the public comment period, voicing concerns about the proposal.

Residents of the Glenwood Brooklyn neighborhood say an affordable housing complex would bring crime and blight into the neighborhood, as well as decrease property values.

Under the proposal, current residents of the complex would have to move out at the end of their leases if they earn above the $31,000 salary cap.

CASA Executive Director Debra King also spoke during the meeting, saying many concerns about the plan are unfounded.

She also said there have been very few problems with CASA's properties already located in Wake County.

CASA plans to turn all 26 units at George's Mews into housing for people with both disabilities and low incomes.

Dianne Dunning, who leads Wake County's Affordable Housing Committee, said CASA has a proven track record "in terms of providing desirable, attractive, safe, affordable housing units within Wake County, mostly for disabled citizens within Wake County."

Raleigh City Council already approved its portion of funding for the project.

After today's vote, the project needs final approval from Wake County commissioners.