Habitat for Humanity looks at building in townships

Posted Jan 19, 2012 By Craig Bakay

EMC News Habitat For Humanity Kingston is looking to expand its builds into Frontenac County and as such, Habitat CEO John Alkenbrack and board chair Ron Darling were at Central Frontenac Council last week in Sharbot Lake to make a pitch.

That pitch seemed to fall on sympathetic, but cautious, ears.

"Our hope is that the Township of Central Frontenac could help foster a build in its community with a donation of land and some development fees rebate considerations," said Alkenbrack.

Habitat's goal is to "break the cycle of poverty through providing home ownership with partnered low income families," he said. They claim a 95-per-cent success rate so far.

"Habitat carries the mortgage at zero interest with no down payment required," he said. "The family's monthly mortgage payments are then set at approximately one-quarter of their monthly income.

"The mortgage payments received are deposited in the affiliate's revolving mortgage fund to help fund the next house and so on."

Darling said the homes they build tend to be slab-on-grade duplexes but there is no minimum restriction. They prefer more built-up areas.

"I don't think there's going to be anyone not supportive of at least looking at this," said Mayor Janet Gutowski.

"What a wonderful contribution you guys are making," said Coun. Norm Guntensperger. "You certainly have my support.

"Can we specify that the recipient of the home will be a citizen of the Township?"

"We can't just bring somebody out from the city and expect them to be successful," said Alkenbrack. "They have to have some source of income so we would look for someone in the area."

"Are they allowed to flip the property once they partner with the program?" asked Coun. Wayne Millar.

"They're home owners like anybody else," said Alkenbrack. "However, we do retain the right of first refusal at market value."

Habitat for Humanity has been active in Canada for 25 years, providing housing to almost 1,800 families.