CCP 10-10-2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 11,2000 9 Mr. Lynch stated that the City of Arden Hills can not force the property owner to continue to provide Section 8 housing units or sell the property, if the owner has made the decision to return to market value rents rather than Section 8 housing. Mr. Lynch pointed out that the City of Arden Hills has participated in Livable Communities and the City Council has stated that they agree with this concept. However, from a resource, staffing, and finance standpoint, the City Council was very restricted at this point. Councilmember Rem suggested that the City explore options to deal with this issue through the State or the Metropolitan Council. She would prefer that the City take a more active role in attempting to assist the residents of this apartment complex. Mayor Probst stated that it was his understanding from City Staff and the required legal notices there was not much the City can do, short of purchasing and operating the property as is. He suggested that the City could vote to pass a Resolution in an attempt to encourage the building owner to maintain an affordable housing opportunity. However, it was his understanding that the property owner's loan has been paid and he has provided all the proper notices. Therefore, the property owner is free to operate the apartment complex as he chooses, or sell the property for the maximum economic benefit to himself. Kathy Bruno, resident of Hunter's Park Apartments, apartment number 228, stated that she is a member of the Hunter's Park Apartment Tenant Council. She expressed concern that the sale of the property will result in an elimination of affordable housing. She stated that the property owner has indicated that he will accept the vouchers at Hunter's Park Apartments for one year after the expiration of the Section 8, Although this will allow the residents one year to look for affordable housing, the future is uncertain and there are no guarantees. Ms. Bruno stated that it would be very stressful living from year to year not knowing if she will be allowed to continue living in a home she and her child have grown accustomed to, She stated that her child has attended the local community schools and that she has lived in this apartment complex for eight and one-half years and has worked for three and one-half years at Ace Hardware. She stated that this has been very convenient because she is able to walk to work. She stated that she does not want to be forced to leave the apartment complex since she and her son enjoy living in this neighborhood. Ms. Bruno stated that the waiting lists for affordable housing, which are generally available only in the inner-city, are two years or more. Additionally, applications for affordable housing are not being taken at this time. Ms. Bruno asked if the City Council will support the residents of Hunter's Park Apartments by informing the property owner that affordable housing must remain. She stated that the property owner has indicated that he was willing to sell the property to a non-profit organization and she asked that the City help to encourage such a sale so that affordable housing may continue to be made available.