Written by Steve Sveom, Chair
On August 14 the Campus Planning Task Force met to review some of the key questions that have been raised about a Tiny Home settlement, a Habitat for Humanity development, or an affordable Housing apartment. Materials were distributed on each of these projects and two options were presented: 1. To discontinue the current tiny home settlement effective January 1 and continue to plan for a low-income apartment complex and/or a Habitat for Humanity row house development. Or, 2. Plan to continue the current Tiny home settlement beyond January 1, expanded by one home to meet statutory requirements while continuing to plan for a low-income apartment complex and/or a Habitat for Humanity row house development. The members of the task force used post-it notes to list pros and cons for each of these options.
One con that was considered regarding an ongoing tiny home settlement was the risk of future financial demands and the need for people support. There is some uncertainty about future demands. Known costs would be up to $10,000 in future investments for further electrical work and for the anchoring of an additional unit. The rental payments of residents are expected to offset ongoing costs of utilities and maintenance but unexpected costs could arise.
The pros of continuing the tiny home settlement are to witness to our children and community a commitment to those in need and to provide a model for other churches to emulate in serving others. While there are some risks involved, there is also an opportunity to be a blessing to others who can be helped and who can help us be challenged to love our neighbor.
The possibility of a Habitat for Humanity development or an Affordable Housing Apartment is dependent upon City rezoning and developer’s viability decisions. An ongoing settlement is possibly a “bird in the hand vs. a bird in the bush” of other options.
The next step for the Task Force is to review each option using the decision factors we have established: Values, Financial Considerations, Compelling Needs, Congregational Vitality, Environmental Impact, and Ministry Enhancement. We hope to meet on Monday, August 21, after the city council considers how it may permit tiny home settlements.