Hébergements Ricochet is committed to developing and offering housing and support solutions for people experiencing residential instability in the West Island and surrounding areas. As part of their newest endeavour, they will be providing housing and support services at 198 rue Ste-Anne in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue (pictured below).
In accordance with the act respecting land use, planning and development, a public consultation meeting for draft resolution 02-033-23 will be held on Tuesday, February 28, at 7:00 p.m. at the Harpell Center, located at 60 rue Saint-Pierre in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue.
The purpose of this draft resolution is to authorize the use of "low-cost supervised housing" in the property bearing civic number 198-200, Ste-Anne Street, on lot 1 559 543 of the Quebec cadastre.
Here is some pertinent information regarding the low-income housing solution;
Why are they doing this project?
The housing crisis is real and is affecting the West Island. According to housing specialists, Montréal has a deficit of more than 60,000 homes to meet the existing housing demand. The average housing costs in the West Island are between $1500 and $1900 per month. The West Island has only 4% of all social and community housing in the Montreal agglomeration area. The search for adequate housing is among the most frequent problems West Island residents face.
The current Centre Ricochet is located in Pierrefonds-Roxboro, where they provide 24/7 care to their residents, including emergency beds and a long-term social reintegration program. The centre accommodates around 51 people, yet they must re-locate their services by March 31st, as the CIUSSS is re-claiming the space.
Who will be the renters?
Individuals living alone aged 18 years and over who are low income, have a regular source of income and are independent (do not require assisted living services).
How many people currently live there, and where will they go?
13 residents are living in residence right now. The owners have an action plan ready for every resident.
When will the new renters move in?
Within approximately 12 months.
How many renters will there be in the Ricochet House?
21 renters will live in Ricochet.
Executive Director of Action Jeunesse de l’Ouest-de-l’Île (AJOI) and Ricochet (Hébergement/Homes), Tania Charron, spoke to the West Island News back in September to discuss homelessness in the West Island:
How long will the renters live there?
The renters will live at the Ricochet House for a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 3 years.
How will the renters be chosen?
The renters will be chosen by a selection committee composed of 2 Ricochet employees, 2 citizens of Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, and 1 renter.
How will these 21 renters cohabitate?
The renters will have private rooms and share common spaces: living rooms, kitchen, dining room, and bathrooms. The on-site staff member can support residents in the harmonious sharing of common spaces. Renters will need to respect a clear agreement comprising of no consumption of drugs or alcohol inside the house or on the premises, respectful communication with the other renters, the staff, and the neighbours, and respect for security rules and all regulations established by Ricochet management.
Will there be architectural changes or major renovations?
There will be no architectural changes to the building. Ricochet is open to suggestions for improving the property if you have them.
How will the environment be maintained?
The renters will maintain the place with the support of the on-site staff. There are mechanisms in place to help maintain affordable housing buildings, such as maintenance reserves. The low housing costs do not imply a lack of means to maintain the structure. Maison Donalda Boyer (Dorval) and Château Mariebert (Montreal) are good examples of successful affordable housing operations.
Will there be employees on-site?
Yes, a staff member will be present 24/7. The staff member will have the following responsibilities: personalized psychosocial support if needed and accompaniment in helping with communal living.
Will there be increased traffic?
Low-income individuals rarely own a private vehicle to get around. Affordable housing is often built to help people live closer to where they work and shop, so they do not have to drive. The closer residents live to where they need to go, the less likely they are to drive.
Will there be changes to parking on the property or the street?
As per city regulations, it will remain prohibited to park on the street. No changes will be made to the parking on the property. Ricochet said they are open to hearing your opinions about this question.
Will we see a frequent presence of first responders?
No. The Ricochet House will have no impact on the neighbourhood. The on-site staff will be available to ensure harmonious living in the area.
Will the project affect the property value of my home?
Studies have shown no link between affordable housing and changing property values.
SOURCE: Hébergements Ricochet
