(Peterborough, ON) -- The recent 'food grab' action of the Tenant Action Group in Belleville, should be supported not criminalized, says the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP).
Last week, members of the Tenant Action Group (TAG) issued a press release warning of upcoming 'food grabs' in protest of welfare and disability rates in Ontario. TAG announced that members would enter grocery stores en masse and help themselves to food. These actions are part of a province-wide campaign by anti-poverty groups in the Common Front who are demanding a 40% increase in social assistance rates.
"If the Liberals persist in refusing to provide its citizens with the basic necessities of life then poor people will simply take it" stated TAG.
On Friday, April 23, 2004, 11 anti-poverty activists were arrested and charged with counseling to commit theft, after distributing pamphlets in a grocery store in Belleville.
"TAG members should not be criminalized for taking action to address the dire level of social assistance rates," stated PCAP organizer Sarah Lamble. "The real crime is that grocery stores shelves are stocked with food while poor people go hungry." PCAP urges all charges to be dropped against the activists.
"PCAP stands in full support of the Tenant Action Group," stated Lamble. "We know that people cannot survive on the current rates of assistance, so until the Liberal government ensures that people's basic needs are met, we will continue to take action."
PCAP is organizing a public speak out at the welfare office in Peterborough on June 11, 2004, as part of the Common Front's Raise-the-Rates campaign. "Individuals on social assistance will be sharing their stories about what it is like to try to survive on the current rates," stated Lamble. "We want the public to understand that a raise in the rates is needed, and the government to know that we will won.t back down until we get one."
Saturday, May 1, 2004
Friday, January 23, 2004
PCAP Vows to Step up the Fight for Affordable Housing
On January 22, 2004 the City of Peterborough bulldozed a house at 1130 Water Street. This building - formerly used for subsidized housing in Peterborough - became a symbol of the struggle for affordable housing when members of the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) squatted the building last June.
The sick irony is that City Council spent $8900 to demolish the building - a full $2000 MORE than the costs to repair the building (and bring it up to code). All while over 1700 families in Peterborough are listed as waiting for affordable housing.
Although PCAP offered to make full repairs to the house, the city refused and brought in 20 police in riot gear to evict the homeless people who were living there.
PCAP sees the decision to demolish as an attack against affordable housing and an attack against low-income people organizing around homelessness. PCAP has vowed to step up its fight for affordable housing.
For the full story, read on.....
PCAP CONDEMNS CITY COUNCIL'S SOLUTION TO HOMELESSNESS: DEMOLISHING AFFORDABLE HOUSING IS NOT THE ANSWER
-- JANUARY 23, 2004 --
On January 22, 2004 the City of Peterborough bulldozed the house at 1130 Water Street - a building once used for affordable housing - but now reduced to rubble. This house, a symbol of the struggle for affordable housing in Peterborough, was demolished under the recommendations of a local non-profit housing organization -- the Peterborough Community Housing Development Corporation (PCHDC) -- and by orders of Peterborough City Council.
The demolition occurred in a city recognized as having the worst housing insecurity problem in the province - a city where more than 1700 families are on the affordable housing waiting list, shelters are overflowing, and an estimated 250 youth are without a place to call home.
After taking over the house in public squat last June, the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) offered to make full repairs to 1130 Water Street. Although this initiative would have cost the City virtually nothing, Council refused, choosing to destroy viable housing, rather than work cooperatively with one of the only low-income groups in Peterborough. This is not only an attack against affordable housing - it is an attack against low-income people organizing against homelessness.
PCAP members, however, were not surprised. The City and the PCHDC have long excluded low-income people from participating in decision-making on housing issues. In July, the PCHDC refused to allow PCAP to make a presentation to its board when they were deciding the fate of 1130 Water Street. As stated in an e-mail to PCAP: "The Board of PCHDC, by consensus, agreed not to continue a working relationship with PCAP. Furthermore, as a private non profit organization, PCHDC has no obligation to share our minutes with anyone other than Board members."
The demolition of 1130 Water Street follows a long pattern of bad decisions by the PCHDC and City. Following the severe flood that occurred in the spring of 2002, the PCHDC failed to properly treat the water damage in the building. Soon after, a mould problem developed in the house and eventually, the City was forced to relocate its low-income tenant who had developed severe health problems as a result of the PCHDC and City's mismanagement and neglect. Rather than correcting the problem, the City let the building sit empty for another 7 months until PCAP took it over last summer. Last month, in order to stop a civil suit by the former tenant, the PCHDC settled the matter out-of-court under the conditions of an imposed gag-order.
In June 2003, when anti-poverty activists squatted the house to use for affordable housing, PCAP began making repairs to the house. Peterborough City Council responded with 20 police in riot gear to evict the homeless people who were living at 1130 Water Street. The City offered no emergency housing assistance to those it evicted. And despite PCAP's continued offer to repair the house for free, City Council chose instead to spend $8900 to demolish the building - a full $2000 MORE than the costs to repair the building (and bring it up to code).
The City and the PCHDC have proven themselves to be landlords of the worst kind: they have 1) treated tenants poorly; 2) failed to repair and properly maintain their property; 3) evicted homeless people; 4) destroyed affordable housing. Peterborough residents demand better.
If Council thought that bulldozing 1130 Water Street would deter PCAP from further squatting - nothing could be more wrong. By refusing to work with us, City Council has made it clear that working within the city's bureaucracy will not produce results - PCAP must fight on our own terms. The City's decision to demolish 1130 Water Street has only spurred our determination to struggle stronger, to fight harder and to win the battle for affordable housing in Peterborough.
PCAP has witnessed the benefits of squatting in other cities. Only last month, in the City of Toronto, a squat action by the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty, resulted in the creation of long-term affordable housing on Gerrard Street. This victory proves that squatting works.
THE CITY MAY HAVE DEMOLISHED OUR SQUAT - BUT THEY CAN NEVER DESTROY OUR STRENGTH AND OUR STRUGGLE.
So long as the City, Province and Federal Government refuses to take responsibility for affordable housing, we are left with little other choice, we will have to take matters into our own hands.
PCAP is ready to step up the fight for affordable housing in Peterborough. We will not let Council's actions go unanswered.
WE WILL FIGHT TO WIN!
The sick irony is that City Council spent $8900 to demolish the building - a full $2000 MORE than the costs to repair the building (and bring it up to code). All while over 1700 families in Peterborough are listed as waiting for affordable housing.
Although PCAP offered to make full repairs to the house, the city refused and brought in 20 police in riot gear to evict the homeless people who were living there.
PCAP sees the decision to demolish as an attack against affordable housing and an attack against low-income people organizing around homelessness. PCAP has vowed to step up its fight for affordable housing.
For the full story, read on.....
PCAP CONDEMNS CITY COUNCIL'S SOLUTION TO HOMELESSNESS: DEMOLISHING AFFORDABLE HOUSING IS NOT THE ANSWER
-- JANUARY 23, 2004 --
On January 22, 2004 the City of Peterborough bulldozed the house at 1130 Water Street - a building once used for affordable housing - but now reduced to rubble. This house, a symbol of the struggle for affordable housing in Peterborough, was demolished under the recommendations of a local non-profit housing organization -- the Peterborough Community Housing Development Corporation (PCHDC) -- and by orders of Peterborough City Council.
The demolition occurred in a city recognized as having the worst housing insecurity problem in the province - a city where more than 1700 families are on the affordable housing waiting list, shelters are overflowing, and an estimated 250 youth are without a place to call home.
After taking over the house in public squat last June, the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) offered to make full repairs to 1130 Water Street. Although this initiative would have cost the City virtually nothing, Council refused, choosing to destroy viable housing, rather than work cooperatively with one of the only low-income groups in Peterborough. This is not only an attack against affordable housing - it is an attack against low-income people organizing against homelessness.
PCAP members, however, were not surprised. The City and the PCHDC have long excluded low-income people from participating in decision-making on housing issues. In July, the PCHDC refused to allow PCAP to make a presentation to its board when they were deciding the fate of 1130 Water Street. As stated in an e-mail to PCAP: "The Board of PCHDC, by consensus, agreed not to continue a working relationship with PCAP. Furthermore, as a private non profit organization, PCHDC has no obligation to share our minutes with anyone other than Board members."
The demolition of 1130 Water Street follows a long pattern of bad decisions by the PCHDC and City. Following the severe flood that occurred in the spring of 2002, the PCHDC failed to properly treat the water damage in the building. Soon after, a mould problem developed in the house and eventually, the City was forced to relocate its low-income tenant who had developed severe health problems as a result of the PCHDC and City's mismanagement and neglect. Rather than correcting the problem, the City let the building sit empty for another 7 months until PCAP took it over last summer. Last month, in order to stop a civil suit by the former tenant, the PCHDC settled the matter out-of-court under the conditions of an imposed gag-order.
In June 2003, when anti-poverty activists squatted the house to use for affordable housing, PCAP began making repairs to the house. Peterborough City Council responded with 20 police in riot gear to evict the homeless people who were living at 1130 Water Street. The City offered no emergency housing assistance to those it evicted. And despite PCAP's continued offer to repair the house for free, City Council chose instead to spend $8900 to demolish the building - a full $2000 MORE than the costs to repair the building (and bring it up to code).
The City and the PCHDC have proven themselves to be landlords of the worst kind: they have 1) treated tenants poorly; 2) failed to repair and properly maintain their property; 3) evicted homeless people; 4) destroyed affordable housing. Peterborough residents demand better.
If Council thought that bulldozing 1130 Water Street would deter PCAP from further squatting - nothing could be more wrong. By refusing to work with us, City Council has made it clear that working within the city's bureaucracy will not produce results - PCAP must fight on our own terms. The City's decision to demolish 1130 Water Street has only spurred our determination to struggle stronger, to fight harder and to win the battle for affordable housing in Peterborough.
PCAP has witnessed the benefits of squatting in other cities. Only last month, in the City of Toronto, a squat action by the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty, resulted in the creation of long-term affordable housing on Gerrard Street. This victory proves that squatting works.
THE CITY MAY HAVE DEMOLISHED OUR SQUAT - BUT THEY CAN NEVER DESTROY OUR STRENGTH AND OUR STRUGGLE.
So long as the City, Province and Federal Government refuses to take responsibility for affordable housing, we are left with little other choice, we will have to take matters into our own hands.
PCAP is ready to step up the fight for affordable housing in Peterborough. We will not let Council's actions go unanswered.
WE WILL FIGHT TO WIN!
Thursday, October 23, 2003
City Want to Demolish Affordable Housing
HELP SAVE AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN PETERBOROUGH!
Peterborough City Council wants to demolish the building at 1130 Water Street - the house that homeless people and anti-poverty activists took over this past summer to protest that lack of affordable housing in the City. We need your help to save affordable housing in Peterborough.
This report includes:
i) Update / Report on 1130 Water Street
ii) Why 1130 Water Street should be Saved
iii) What you can do to help save affordable housing in Peterborough.
i) UPDATE ON 1130 WATER STREET SQUAT: CITY WANTS TO DEMOLISH SQUATTED BUILDING
(Peterborough, ON) -- On Monday, Oct 27, 2003, the Peterborough City Council will vote on a recommendation to bull-doze the house at 1130 Water Street. This past summer, members of the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) and homeless people in the community took over this building to protest the lack of affordable housing in Peterborough. After two and a half weeks, squatters were removed from the building by police and the house has sat empty since. Prior to the squat, the building had been used for affordable housing, but then was closed due to mould contamination.
The city recently commissioned a report, which states that the costs to remove the mould and restore the house to a basic living standard is $6900. The cost to demolish the building is $7000. However, now the city is now saying that additional repairs (including replacing the roof) should be completed, raising the total cost to $22,000.
PCAP points out, however, that even if the full repairs were completed, the costs would equal $366 a month over five years - which is a reasonable monthly rent. PCAP also suggests that the City allow community groups get involved to fund-raise, provide materials and labour - which would also reduce costs.
However, the city argues that because the long-term city plan stipulates that the land along the river should be converted to green space, the building is slated to be demolished in 5 years.
PCAP believes that this building should not be demolished and that it is financially feasible to complete repairs so that 1130 Water Street. Moreover, it will be many years before the City is able convert the property at 1130 Water Street into green space. There are two privately owned homes on either side of the property as well as a number of City-owned homes that are currently used for affordable housing. If the city goes ahead with the greenspace plan, it will mean a greater loss in affordable housing.
PCAP believes that the city should make affordable housing a priority over greenspace in this area. Since at least two of the original 1130 Water Street squatters are still without housing, this building could provide the shelter that they require.
PCAP is asking the community to urge the City to save 1130 Water Street. For ways to help in this campaign please see below.
For more information, contact PCAP: (705) 741-5068 pcap@riseup.net
ii) REASONS WHY THE BUILDING SHOULD NOT BE DEMOLISHED:
1. The cost to repair 1130 Water Street is a small price to pay for affordable housing.
The cost to implement the minimum repairs ($6900) is less than the cost to demolish the building.
The "bare minimum" costs of repair are $6900. If the house were rented for 5 years, those costs would amount to $1380 a year, or $115/month, which could be covered by rent. If the full $22,000 in repairs were completed, the monthly costs (over 5 years) would equal $366.
2. It is more cost effective to invest in existing affordable housing than to build new units or pay for emergency shelter. Even if the difference between the repair costs and the demolishing costs ($15, 000) is invested in an affordable housing fund, this is not sufficient to build a replacement unit. If the City is going to demolish affordable housing - it should be replaced!
3. A city partnership with local groups and community members would help share the costs and encompass a more grassroots approach to affordable housing.
The Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty and other groups have expressed interest in repairing the building at 1130 Water Street so that it can be maintained as affordable housing. The City should give these groups the opportunity to develop proposals regarding 1130 Water Street before it decides to demolish the building.
4. The urgency for affordable housing should take priority over creating green space.
Before the squat took place on June 15, city planners stated that it could take 50 years before the buildings along the Otonabee were demolished and green space created. Now the City claims that the house at 1130 will be demolished in 5 years. Unless planning to make a very small green space in the lot at 1130 Water Street, the City will also have to demolish the buildings in the adjacent lots - which means a loss of more affordable housing (since many of the buildings along Water Street are currently used for affordable housing). Moreover, there are two privately owned homes on either side of 1130 Water - and it is unlikely that the city will be able to purchase those buildings immediately. If the City follows through on this plan, the City will face the:
Loss of numerous units of affordable housing
Costs to demolish 1130 Water Street
Costs to demolish or move adjacent units of affordable housing
Costs to purchase private houses on either side (minimum property value of each: $100, 000)
If the city has the funds to purchase these properties for green space, it has the funds for affordable housing. Housing should be its priority until the problem of homelessness is alleviated. Given the length of time it will take to create total green space along the river, it seems reasonable that housing should be given priority until such time that the problem of homelessness is remedied.
iii) WHAT YOU CAN DO:
1. E-mail or Phone councillors to say DON'T DEMOLISH 1130 WATER ST. (e-mails below)
2. Attend the council meeting on Monday Oct 27th to show your support.
3. Develop alternative proposals to demolishing the building (ie. join other groups in fund-raising, offering labour, materials, etc).
4. Pledge money to help renovate the building if the city decides not to demolish it.
COUNCILLORS E-MAILS and PHONE #:
GPagett@city.peterborough.on.ca
mayor@city.peterborough.on.ca
BHall@city.peterborough.on.ca
JoPritchard@city.peterborough.on.ca
DPeacock@city.peterborough.on.ca
PAyotte@city.peterborough.on.ca
medwards@nexicom.net
BJuby@city.peterborough.on.ca
JDoris@city.peterborough.on.ca
HClarke@city.peterborough.on.ca
JLeal@city.peterborough.on.ca
mhunt@city.peterborough.on.ca
clyon@city.peterborough.on.ca
Jeff Leal 742-1361
henry clarke 749-3149
margeree edwards 745-5864
glen paggett 742-4595
sylvia sutherland 743-3299
jack doris 745-5939
bill juby 745-4156
doug peacock 741-5435
paul ayotte 742-9835
bob hall 749-0867
john pritchard 741-2313
FOR MORE INFO: (705) 749-9694 pcap@riseup.net
Peterborough City Council wants to demolish the building at 1130 Water Street - the house that homeless people and anti-poverty activists took over this past summer to protest that lack of affordable housing in the City. We need your help to save affordable housing in Peterborough.
This report includes:
i) Update / Report on 1130 Water Street
ii) Why 1130 Water Street should be Saved
iii) What you can do to help save affordable housing in Peterborough.
i) UPDATE ON 1130 WATER STREET SQUAT: CITY WANTS TO DEMOLISH SQUATTED BUILDING
(Peterborough, ON) -- On Monday, Oct 27, 2003, the Peterborough City Council will vote on a recommendation to bull-doze the house at 1130 Water Street. This past summer, members of the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) and homeless people in the community took over this building to protest the lack of affordable housing in Peterborough. After two and a half weeks, squatters were removed from the building by police and the house has sat empty since. Prior to the squat, the building had been used for affordable housing, but then was closed due to mould contamination.
The city recently commissioned a report, which states that the costs to remove the mould and restore the house to a basic living standard is $6900. The cost to demolish the building is $7000. However, now the city is now saying that additional repairs (including replacing the roof) should be completed, raising the total cost to $22,000.
PCAP points out, however, that even if the full repairs were completed, the costs would equal $366 a month over five years - which is a reasonable monthly rent. PCAP also suggests that the City allow community groups get involved to fund-raise, provide materials and labour - which would also reduce costs.
However, the city argues that because the long-term city plan stipulates that the land along the river should be converted to green space, the building is slated to be demolished in 5 years.
PCAP believes that this building should not be demolished and that it is financially feasible to complete repairs so that 1130 Water Street. Moreover, it will be many years before the City is able convert the property at 1130 Water Street into green space. There are two privately owned homes on either side of the property as well as a number of City-owned homes that are currently used for affordable housing. If the city goes ahead with the greenspace plan, it will mean a greater loss in affordable housing.
PCAP believes that the city should make affordable housing a priority over greenspace in this area. Since at least two of the original 1130 Water Street squatters are still without housing, this building could provide the shelter that they require.
PCAP is asking the community to urge the City to save 1130 Water Street. For ways to help in this campaign please see below.
For more information, contact PCAP: (705) 741-5068 pcap@riseup.net
ii) REASONS WHY THE BUILDING SHOULD NOT BE DEMOLISHED:
1. The cost to repair 1130 Water Street is a small price to pay for affordable housing.
The cost to implement the minimum repairs ($6900) is less than the cost to demolish the building.
The "bare minimum" costs of repair are $6900. If the house were rented for 5 years, those costs would amount to $1380 a year, or $115/month, which could be covered by rent. If the full $22,000 in repairs were completed, the monthly costs (over 5 years) would equal $366.
2. It is more cost effective to invest in existing affordable housing than to build new units or pay for emergency shelter. Even if the difference between the repair costs and the demolishing costs ($15, 000) is invested in an affordable housing fund, this is not sufficient to build a replacement unit. If the City is going to demolish affordable housing - it should be replaced!
3. A city partnership with local groups and community members would help share the costs and encompass a more grassroots approach to affordable housing.
The Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty and other groups have expressed interest in repairing the building at 1130 Water Street so that it can be maintained as affordable housing. The City should give these groups the opportunity to develop proposals regarding 1130 Water Street before it decides to demolish the building.
4. The urgency for affordable housing should take priority over creating green space.
Before the squat took place on June 15, city planners stated that it could take 50 years before the buildings along the Otonabee were demolished and green space created. Now the City claims that the house at 1130 will be demolished in 5 years. Unless planning to make a very small green space in the lot at 1130 Water Street, the City will also have to demolish the buildings in the adjacent lots - which means a loss of more affordable housing (since many of the buildings along Water Street are currently used for affordable housing). Moreover, there are two privately owned homes on either side of 1130 Water - and it is unlikely that the city will be able to purchase those buildings immediately. If the City follows through on this plan, the City will face the:
Loss of numerous units of affordable housing
Costs to demolish 1130 Water Street
Costs to demolish or move adjacent units of affordable housing
Costs to purchase private houses on either side (minimum property value of each: $100, 000)
If the city has the funds to purchase these properties for green space, it has the funds for affordable housing. Housing should be its priority until the problem of homelessness is alleviated. Given the length of time it will take to create total green space along the river, it seems reasonable that housing should be given priority until such time that the problem of homelessness is remedied.
iii) WHAT YOU CAN DO:
1. E-mail or Phone councillors to say DON'T DEMOLISH 1130 WATER ST. (e-mails below)
2. Attend the council meeting on Monday Oct 27th to show your support.
3. Develop alternative proposals to demolishing the building (ie. join other groups in fund-raising, offering labour, materials, etc).
4. Pledge money to help renovate the building if the city decides not to demolish it.
COUNCILLORS E-MAILS and PHONE #:
GPagett@city.peterborough.on.ca
mayor@city.peterborough.on.ca
BHall@city.peterborough.on.ca
JoPritchard@city.peterborough.on.ca
DPeacock@city.peterborough.on.ca
PAyotte@city.peterborough.on.ca
medwards@nexicom.net
BJuby@city.peterborough.on.ca
JDoris@city.peterborough.on.ca
HClarke@city.peterborough.on.ca
JLeal@city.peterborough.on.ca
mhunt@city.peterborough.on.ca
clyon@city.peterborough.on.ca
Jeff Leal 742-1361
henry clarke 749-3149
margeree edwards 745-5864
glen paggett 742-4595
sylvia sutherland 743-3299
jack doris 745-5939
bill juby 745-4156
doug peacock 741-5435
paul ayotte 742-9835
bob hall 749-0867
john pritchard 741-2313
FOR MORE INFO: (705) 749-9694 pcap@riseup.net
Friday, August 8, 2003
Please Help Convert 1130 Water Street into Affordable Housing
by Sarah Lamble, PCAP Organizer
Dear Supporter of Affordable Housing
The Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) is writing to ask for your support in encouraging the City of Peterborough to repair the empty building at 1130 Water Street so that it can be used for affordable housing.
As you may be aware, this summer PCAP took over the building at 1130 Water Street in an effort to convince the city that the property should be used for affordable housing. The building had been used for affordable housing in the past, but was closed due to mould contamination in the basement.
The City recently released a report outlining that the mould in the house is not toxic and can be removed at a cost of $3000-$4000. The City is currently looking into costs for full repairs to the house and will likely release these results at the Council Meeting on Monday, September 15, 2003.
City housing chairman Henry Clarke has stated that the house at 1130 Water Street could be demolished in 5 years to create green space along the river. Realistically, however, as other city officials have suggested, it could be decades before this happens. Regardless of the building's long-term future, even 5 years of affordable housing is a worthwhile investment for those individuals currently on the affordable housing waiting list.
PCAP will be attending City Council this month to encourage the city to complete the repairs so 1130 Water Street can be returned to the affordable housing pool. PCAP feels that the estimated $3000 - $4000 to remove the mould is a very small price to pay for another unit of affordable housing in Peterborough.
Given that the city commissioned $5000 for the mould report, but only used $500, the remaining $4500 could be used towards repairs.
WE NEED YOUR HELP. If enough members of the community demonstrate their support, we could convince the city to create one more building of affordable housing.
We are asking that you, as an individual or a group, endorse the attached statement or write your own statement supporting the conversion of 1130 Water Street into affordable housing.
STATEMENT SUPPORTING 1130 WATER STREET FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
WHEREAS, the lack of affordable housing in Peterborough has reached a crisis state and current strategies to address the problem are inadequate;
WHEREAS, every single building that can be converted to affordable housing is one step closer to eliminating homelessness in Peterborough;
WHEREAS, it is practically and financially feasible to repair the building at 1130 Water Street for use as affordable housing;
WE, THE UNDERSIGNED, urge the City of Peterborough to make the repairs necessary to restore 1130 Water Street for use as affordable housing.
NAME: ________________________________________________________________________
Signed: ___________________________________ Date: ________________________________
Please send all endorsements to PCAP, either by e-mail: pcap@riseup.net or to the PCAP office at 393 Water Street, Unit 17 Peterborough, K9H 3L7.
Thank you for your efforts toward the creation of more affordable housing in Peterborough. If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, please call the PCAP office.
On behalf of PCAP,
-Sarah Lamble, PCAP organizer
Dear Supporter of Affordable Housing
The Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) is writing to ask for your support in encouraging the City of Peterborough to repair the empty building at 1130 Water Street so that it can be used for affordable housing.
As you may be aware, this summer PCAP took over the building at 1130 Water Street in an effort to convince the city that the property should be used for affordable housing. The building had been used for affordable housing in the past, but was closed due to mould contamination in the basement.
The City recently released a report outlining that the mould in the house is not toxic and can be removed at a cost of $3000-$4000. The City is currently looking into costs for full repairs to the house and will likely release these results at the Council Meeting on Monday, September 15, 2003.
City housing chairman Henry Clarke has stated that the house at 1130 Water Street could be demolished in 5 years to create green space along the river. Realistically, however, as other city officials have suggested, it could be decades before this happens. Regardless of the building's long-term future, even 5 years of affordable housing is a worthwhile investment for those individuals currently on the affordable housing waiting list.
PCAP will be attending City Council this month to encourage the city to complete the repairs so 1130 Water Street can be returned to the affordable housing pool. PCAP feels that the estimated $3000 - $4000 to remove the mould is a very small price to pay for another unit of affordable housing in Peterborough.
Given that the city commissioned $5000 for the mould report, but only used $500, the remaining $4500 could be used towards repairs.
WE NEED YOUR HELP. If enough members of the community demonstrate their support, we could convince the city to create one more building of affordable housing.
We are asking that you, as an individual or a group, endorse the attached statement or write your own statement supporting the conversion of 1130 Water Street into affordable housing.
STATEMENT SUPPORTING 1130 WATER STREET FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING
WHEREAS, the lack of affordable housing in Peterborough has reached a crisis state and current strategies to address the problem are inadequate;
WHEREAS, every single building that can be converted to affordable housing is one step closer to eliminating homelessness in Peterborough;
WHEREAS, it is practically and financially feasible to repair the building at 1130 Water Street for use as affordable housing;
WE, THE UNDERSIGNED, urge the City of Peterborough to make the repairs necessary to restore 1130 Water Street for use as affordable housing.
NAME: ________________________________________________________________________
Signed: ___________________________________ Date: ________________________________
Please send all endorsements to PCAP, either by e-mail: pcap@riseup.net or to the PCAP office at 393 Water Street, Unit 17 Peterborough, K9H 3L7.
Thank you for your efforts toward the creation of more affordable housing in Peterborough. If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, please call the PCAP office.
On behalf of PCAP,
-Sarah Lamble, PCAP organizer
Thursday, August 7, 2003
PCAP Media Release: Third Stop on Affordable Housing Tour
Media Release
Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty
August 7, 2003
For Immediate Release
Third Stop on Affordable Housing Tour
(Peterborough) - On Saturday, August 9, 2003 the Peterborough Coalition
against Poverty (PCAP) will be holding the third action in its housing
campaign. At 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, PCAP will be attending the auction at
the old Fairhaven site, at 131 Langton St., to tour another property that
could be used for affordable housing. PCAP opposes the fact that
buildings needlessly sit empty and unused while the shelters are
overflowing, eviction rates are skyrocketing, and thousands wait 5 years
or more for affordable housing.
PCAP will draw attention to the fact that the city is not only demolishing
a building that could be used for affordable housing - but stands to lose
$100,000 in the demolishing deal. PCAP thinks that $100,000 could be put
to better use (i.e. repairing 1130 Water St.)! Instead of being destroyed
and then built up again as a condo development, PCAP thinks the old
Fairhaven building could be put to use as a much-needed new family
shelter.
PCAP will also be making a public request that the City release the mold
assesment of 1130 Water Street. PCAP was assured that the results would
be made public early last week, but the city has yet to disclose the
information. Several phone calls to the City have also gone unreturned. In
addition to specifying the severity of the mold problem at 1130 Water St.,
the report will also indicate the cost of repairing the house. If the
repairs are feasible, PCAP expects the City to make the house liveable
again and return it to the affordable housing market.
---
The Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) is a group dedicated to
political struggle against an economic system that maintains and profits
from the inequality, indignity and needless suffering of poverty. PCAP
organizes actions to support and protect low income persons or groups who
are being oppressed.
Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP)
#17 - 393 Water Street
Peterborough, Ontario
K9H 3L7
(705)749-9694
pcap@riseup.net
Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty
August 7, 2003
For Immediate Release
Third Stop on Affordable Housing Tour
(Peterborough) - On Saturday, August 9, 2003 the Peterborough Coalition
against Poverty (PCAP) will be holding the third action in its housing
campaign. At 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, PCAP will be attending the auction at
the old Fairhaven site, at 131 Langton St., to tour another property that
could be used for affordable housing. PCAP opposes the fact that
buildings needlessly sit empty and unused while the shelters are
overflowing, eviction rates are skyrocketing, and thousands wait 5 years
or more for affordable housing.
PCAP will draw attention to the fact that the city is not only demolishing
a building that could be used for affordable housing - but stands to lose
$100,000 in the demolishing deal. PCAP thinks that $100,000 could be put
to better use (i.e. repairing 1130 Water St.)! Instead of being destroyed
and then built up again as a condo development, PCAP thinks the old
Fairhaven building could be put to use as a much-needed new family
shelter.
PCAP will also be making a public request that the City release the mold
assesment of 1130 Water Street. PCAP was assured that the results would
be made public early last week, but the city has yet to disclose the
information. Several phone calls to the City have also gone unreturned. In
addition to specifying the severity of the mold problem at 1130 Water St.,
the report will also indicate the cost of repairing the house. If the
repairs are feasible, PCAP expects the City to make the house liveable
again and return it to the affordable housing market.
---
The Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP) is a group dedicated to
political struggle against an economic system that maintains and profits
from the inequality, indignity and needless suffering of poverty. PCAP
organizes actions to support and protect low income persons or groups who
are being oppressed.
Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP)
#17 - 393 Water Street
Peterborough, Ontario
K9H 3L7
(705)749-9694
pcap@riseup.net
Sunday, July 13, 2003
PCAP Squat Update
Peterborough, ON -- On Monday evening, one week following their eviction from the front lawn of city hall, members of the Peterborough Coalition Against Poverty (PCAP)and the former squatters of 1130 Water Street returned to Peterborough City Council to ask that negotiations resume between the city and PCAP.
PCAP members and squatters were greeted by nine police officers who were guarding city hall and refusing to permit entry to anyone carrying a backpack, placard or mask. At first, police officers offered to hold PCAP members bags while they were attending the meeting, but then the offer was rescinded. PCAP members were then told to leave their bags on the front lawn. Needless to say, city officials and "well dressed" members of the public carrying bags were permited entry with no questions asked.
Because a number of PCAP members were detained at the door, there was some delay before PCAP could address council as planned. When questioned on the police presence, Mayor Sutherland said that PCAP had issued a "threat" to the city and therefore the police were necessary. Mayor Sutherland was referring to the fact that PCAP had issued a statement to the city, saying that if negotiations did not resume by the City, PCAP would have no choice but to take futher action.
The police presence proved totally unnecessary - as PCAP made their presentation calmly and politely to Council - and the police wages were clearly put to good use as the officers spent most of the evening lounging on the front steps inside City Hall.
PCAP asked Council a number of questions, including whether they had plans to continue discussions with PCAP, what they planned to do with 1130 Water Street and why they had done nothing to assist the 6 homeless people the City evicted from 1130 Water Street. Council did not answer PCAP's questions.
PCAP is still waiting to hear back on the results of the mould analysis conducted at 1130 Water Street. The results are expected today.
WHAT"S NEXT: Press Conference Thursday 11am @ City Hall
PCAP is holding a press conference on Thursday at 11am on the front lawn of City Hall. PCAP will be issuing a statement alongside representatives from local and national labour unions, and John Clarke of the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty.
PCAP members and squatters were greeted by nine police officers who were guarding city hall and refusing to permit entry to anyone carrying a backpack, placard or mask. At first, police officers offered to hold PCAP members bags while they were attending the meeting, but then the offer was rescinded. PCAP members were then told to leave their bags on the front lawn. Needless to say, city officials and "well dressed" members of the public carrying bags were permited entry with no questions asked.
Because a number of PCAP members were detained at the door, there was some delay before PCAP could address council as planned. When questioned on the police presence, Mayor Sutherland said that PCAP had issued a "threat" to the city and therefore the police were necessary. Mayor Sutherland was referring to the fact that PCAP had issued a statement to the city, saying that if negotiations did not resume by the City, PCAP would have no choice but to take futher action.
The police presence proved totally unnecessary - as PCAP made their presentation calmly and politely to Council - and the police wages were clearly put to good use as the officers spent most of the evening lounging on the front steps inside City Hall.
PCAP asked Council a number of questions, including whether they had plans to continue discussions with PCAP, what they planned to do with 1130 Water Street and why they had done nothing to assist the 6 homeless people the City evicted from 1130 Water Street. Council did not answer PCAP's questions.
PCAP is still waiting to hear back on the results of the mould analysis conducted at 1130 Water Street. The results are expected today.
WHAT"S NEXT: Press Conference Thursday 11am @ City Hall
PCAP is holding a press conference on Thursday at 11am on the front lawn of City Hall. PCAP will be issuing a statement alongside representatives from local and national labour unions, and John Clarke of the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty.
Monday, July 7, 2003
Squatters Evicted ... Again!
Peterborough, ON --- Shortly after 6am this morning, the squatters from 1130 Water Street were evicted from the front lawn of City Hall. Squatters have been staying at City Hall since Friday, July 4th, following their forcible removal from 1130 Water Street. Nine police officers arrived this morning with a notice from the City stating that the squatters were trespassing. The squatters were asked to leave immediately.
Squatters gathered what belongings they could carry and peacefully left the property.
On Friday, July 4th, squatters issued three demands (below) and informed Councillors that they would give the City one week to address those demands. Until that time (or until the squatters were provided with alternative lodgings), the squatters vowed to stay at City Hall.
Though Mayor Sutherland was quoted in the Peterborough Examiner (Saturday July 5, 2003) as saying that the squatters would not be removed from City Hall, squatters were informed that this morning's eviction came under Sutherland's orders.
Squatters are presently gathering to determine their next move.
Supporters are asked to drop by City Hall today to voice their solidarity with the squatters and to this evening at 7pm prior to the City Council Meeting.
MEET AT CITY HALL TONIGHT (July 7th) at 7pm. George St & Macdonald St.
Squatters gathered what belongings they could carry and peacefully left the property.
On Friday, July 4th, squatters issued three demands (below) and informed Councillors that they would give the City one week to address those demands. Until that time (or until the squatters were provided with alternative lodgings), the squatters vowed to stay at City Hall.
Though Mayor Sutherland was quoted in the Peterborough Examiner (Saturday July 5, 2003) as saying that the squatters would not be removed from City Hall, squatters were informed that this morning's eviction came under Sutherland's orders.
Squatters are presently gathering to determine their next move.
Supporters are asked to drop by City Hall today to voice their solidarity with the squatters and to this evening at 7pm prior to the City Council Meeting.
MEET AT CITY HALL TONIGHT (July 7th) at 7pm. George St & Macdonald St.
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