Alberta Housing Act and Seniors
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association urge the Province of Alberta to review the requisition process of the Alberta Housing Act in consultation with municipal and not-for-profit groups to ensure the process reflects the principles of accountability and sustainability.
WHEREAS the population of Alberta seniors represents the fastest growing demographic in the province;
WHEREAS pensions and seniors subsidies are not keeping pace with the rising cost of living;
WHEREAS private supportive housing options are proving too expensive for many Alberta seniors;
WHEREAS the Alberta Housing Act allows the Minister to direct a municipality to cover the annual deficit of any management body providing lodge accommodations, and further “any amounts necessary to establish or continue a reserve fund for the management body."; and
WHEREAS Alberta villages, towns and cities collaborate with other orders of government and stakeholders to ensure appropriate housing for seniors.
Aug 24, 2011 - Alberta Seniors and Community Supports
In May 2011, Seniors and Community Supports held four Lodge Issue Review Consultations across the province to discuss the successes and challenges facing management bodies under the provincial Seniors Lodge Program. Participants included CAOs and board members from management bodies and representatives from Seniors and Community Supports, Housing and Urban Affairs, Health and Wellness, Alberta Health Services and the Alberta Seniors Citizens Housing Association. One of the priorities identified was the current funding model of the requisition and implications for the long-term financial sustainability of the program.
In May 2011, Seniors and Community Supports held four Lodge Issue Review consultations across the province to discuss the successes and challenges facing management bodies under the provincial Seniors Lodge Program.
Oct 1, 2012 - Municipal Affairs
Findings of the lodge review:
- Addressing aging infrastructure
- Creating sustainable funding for lodges (operating funding and requisitions)
- Having too many provincial departments to deal with
- Establishing a clearer vision for the future of the program
- Clearly communicating roles with AHS
Seniors and Community Supports is reviewing the results of the consultation sessions which identified a number of priorities along with recommendations for immediate and long-term action for improvements to the Lodge Program.
AUMA accepts this response.