pages: CityCouncil/2019-10-15.pdf, 14
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CityCouncil | 2019-10-15 | 14 | Councilmember Daysog stated the project specific vouchers can assist in the cash flow of the project and are very helpful. The Housing Authority Executive Director stated the number of vouchers is based on 20 years; project based vouchers are able to be borrowed against and help reduce financing costs. Councilmembers Oddie and Vella gave a brief presentation on the referral. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated there is no reason to attack a volunteer board of qualified individuals; housing issues are taken very seriously; a process pitting one side against another is counterproductive; the process does not have to be adversarial; engaged dialogue helps keep the City's most vulnerable safe and in their homes; expressed support for reporting the number of vouchers lost; stated accusations have been made against the Housing Authority; she and the City Manager arranged a meeting with the advocacy group and the meeting did not occur; issues related to housing are complicated and difficult. The Housing Authority Executive Director stated the Housing Authority has been around for 75 years; the advocates have an important role; efforts are made to help ensure people are not un-housed; evictions do happen; expressed support for facilitating a conversation with advocates through Services that Encourage Effective Dialogue and Solutions (SEEDS); tenant privacy will not be breached unless elected by the tenant; there has been success with SEEDS. Councilmember Vella stated that she has met with all sides; there can be a wide range of solutions to the underlying problems; expressed concern about the City taking oversight of the Housing Authority; stated all parties should be working collectively on the issues; many people feel frustrated and feel as though the system does not work. Councilmember Oddie expressed support for the options being presented; stated there is no accountability of the Housing Authority to an elected official; expressed support for improving the level of accountability; stated Council is only allowed to hear one side of the story. Councilmember Daysog noted the Council previously was the governing board of the Housing Authority; stated tenants do not have a process which allows Housing Authority decision to be appealed to Council; Council previously issued guidance and direction on issues; independence from Council has been successful for the Housing Authority; the appeal process is as articulated and as transparent as possible; the federal government will impose certain rules and expectations related to administrative process and privacy; the processes are meant to help treat families fairly and with respect. *** (19-582) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated a motion is needed to consider the remaining Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 12 October 15, 2019 | CityCouncil/2019-10-15.pdf |