pages: CityCouncil/2022-05-03.pdf, 19
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2022-05-03 | 19 | The Community Development Director stated the area being saturated means that a great deal of homeless services are provided at Alameda Point and the West End; Alameda does not have the same opportunities elsewhere in the City; expressed support for creating a similar program in another part of the City with comparable opportunities; however, such an area does not exist; if other opportunities present themselves in other areas in the City, staff will look into spreading out services. The Interim City Manager stated the Housing Element provides an opportunity to discuss housing barriers and opportunities in different parts of the community; there are ways to shift the policy perspective over-time for the community related to where properties are re-zoned and placed. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she previously voted against the matter; discussed a community meeting; stated staff has been more forthright with the proposal; the proposed use is not three families being placed in three homes; the program will likely have individuals, which is not what the community members support; there are multiple people at the encampment on Main Street; the City needs to repair the homes in the area; the City has received complaints about the state of the properties; it is imperative that the City be a good landlord to the current tenants in the area; the homes could be rented out, which would generate rental income for the City; rent revenue should have been used for repairs; house rules must address inside and outside the home; identification needs to be confirmed prior to offering anyone housing; the City is housing people within an established neighborhood; people need to be identified and screened per Megan's Law; expressed support for Village of Love's work as a provider; stated that she would like to regularly hear from community members if the program is approved. Councilmember Knox White stated Council can find reasons not to support the matter; he hopes to move the matter forward and is enthusiastic about building housing in Alameda; expressed support for the staff recommendation; stated that he would like one supportive housing unit to be used for up to 50% seniors and medically vulnerable; he believes Council would be doing the City and community a disservice in creating a system that de-prioritizes the highest need and largest number; recommended a second Big White be held in abeyance for repairs; stated the number of people being served is being reduced by using two homes for single families; the City will not be collecting rent; the City's job is not to make money, it is to serve the people who live in the City whether or not they have a house. Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation with one house being used for prioritization of up to 50% seniors and medically vulnerable, and maintaining a second Big White house which could be put into effect once the City has had the opportunity to go through the program and judge its effectiveness and impact on the neighborhood; leaving the decision to staff about renting another existing Big White if one becomes available. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council May 3, 2022 15 | CityCouncil/2022-05-03.pdf |