Re: Disappointment over housing society cut (Dec 16/2015) and does council really support affordable housing? (Jan 9/2016)
I am confident that every member of city council is passionate about sustainable affordable housing in our community.
In November when I wrote to council with my concerns about the operating efficiency of the St Albert Housing Society, I received several thoughtful replies. The executive director of the housing society also responded to my comments through social media on Nov. 25, so she is aware that support from those who are familiar with the operations of this organization is far from universal.
While I have no doubt that the impact for the 28(?) families that were helped in 2014, and the additional families in 2015 was monumental, I question the efficiency and the benefits of SAHS being both a fundraising/advocacy group, as well as a building manager.
A few points to consider regarding the St Albert Housing Society: In 2014 alone, tax dollars appear to have funded $160,000, with another $45,000 coming from donations and fundraising. In 2008, the city chipped in $45,000. It was $227,000 from taxpayers in 2009, and $110,000 in operating grants each year from 2010 to 2014. In 2014, those taxpayer dollars didn't even cover consulting fees ($48,000), salaries and benefits ($40,000), and office/office lease ($15,000 + $12,000); That's not touching the fundraising, advertising, and professional management fees.
The housing society is wonderful at fundraising and promotion for a critical human need, and the premise behind its services is crucial in this city, but the value is questionable. The vision of those on the board of directors is the right one – to provide safe, affordable housing options and services to individuals and families of modest means – but this model doesn't seem to be working as it stands. I in no way intend to suggest that affordable housing shouldn't be a priority, just that we have to look at the best ways to support our community.
During the Nov. 26 council meeting where funding was reduced, Coun. Cam MacKay did a wonderful job of pointing out that the housing society was becoming more self-sustaining because of successful fundraising efforts, making a small funding reduction possible. Coun. Cathy Heron also made excellent points about the importance of a long-term plan to continue to reduce funding with the intent of supporting sustainability. Councillors Wes Brodhead and Sheena Hughes echoed the need for sustainability and value for our investment. I recommend that everyone with a stake in this cause listens to the debate on this issue (1:13 of the Nov. 26, 2015 meeting) to see that everyone on council values affordable housing, and reads the annual reports of the housing society to see a clearer picture of the service it is providing.
Natalie Mikus, St. Albert
