Formed in 2002, incorporated in 2003, Cold Lake Affordable Housing Society (CLAHS) is thriving and has been working diligently since 2006 to ensure their first affordable housing project is a success. This organizations’ vitality reflects the passion, concern and commitment of a diverse mix of volunteers. Membership includes representation from the social, health and business sectors as well as concerned residents advocating for seniors, persons with disabilities, students, young professionals, and families.

By mobilizing community resources, the Cold Lake Affordable Housing Society facilitates the provision of affordable, adequate and accessible housing for the Cold Lake Region.

Vision Statement:

The Cold Lake community promotes the continued growth of affordable housing initiatives that lead toward a healthy sustainable and diverse community.

Board of Directors Dick Wirges Candice Sutterfield Sheila Hubbard Tracy Cowden Gail Wolfe Gerri Himmelsbach Tamara Hutmacher Tracey Knowlton VACANT VACANT Advisory Members Jean-Yves Tachereau Maureen Sander Staff/Contractor Michelle Bourdon Fortin, Marc

President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Advisory Committee, City of Cold Lake, Voting Member Advisory Committee, DMSCC Liaison, Non-Voting Member Project Coordinator Property Manager

Tracy Cowden
Secretary, CLAHS
Email: tracy.cowden@portagecollege.ca

Candice Sutterfield
Vice Chair, CLAHS
Email: c.sutterfield@yahoo.ca

The Cold Lake Affordable Housing Society [CLAHS] operates as a managing board with 9 elected members and 3 appointed advisors. Society bylaws were amended and adopted March 26, 2008.

The Board has appointed Michelle Bourdon as Project Manager. Michelle’s position is a term position, and her responsibilities are primarily for the construction, financing and operational setup of CLAHS’ first project, a 32-unit low rise apartment complex. Michelle works out of CLAHS’ office which it sublets from EmployAbilities.

The Board scheduled a special meeting June 8, 2008, for the purpose of refining wants and needs in the proposed complex. Jazz Logan prepared initial drawings for the project which were used as a basis for discussion with architectural firms.

Michelle Bourdon solicited bid proposals from a number of architectural firms and building contractors and prepared detailed cost analyses for each. After extensive research and examination of cost/benefit, the Board elected to contract with Barrcana Homes to build the apartment complex. Board representatives traveled to Barrhead to examine onsite construction facilities of Barrcana Homes. The Board’s initial visit to Barrcana Homes was accompanied by Keith R Board representatives met with the Planning Department of the City of Cold Lake to finalize lease details regarding the City donated lots upon which the complex shall be built.

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Center {DMSCC], with details of responsibility for both DMSCC and CLAHS for the 8 apartment units which shall be occupied by DMSCC. A lease contract shall be finalized for DMSCC prior to their occupancy.

The Board Finance Committee has set up a Board operating budget. This budget will be expanded to include the operational income and expenditures of the apartment complex.

CLAHS continues to expand its partnerships and sphere of influence in the Cold Lake Community and area. Meetings were held with numerous stakeholder groups as well as MLA Genia Leskiw and MP Brian Storoseth. CLAHS thanks both Mrs. Leskiw and Mr. Storseth for their support for our projects.

The Board Fundraising Committee is congratulated for its tireless efforts. Each fundraiser was well attended, and fundraising activities grew rapidly in scope and outcome. Community donors and volunteers on the team are applauded for their contributions and responsibility for the success of each endeavor.

CLAHS’ main focus at present is the completion of the apartment complex, and opening its doors to the needs of Cold Lake. However, the Board has begun to consider the next 2 projects, and negotiations with the City of Cold Lake has resulted in the purchase of additional lots for new construction. These projects will be made possible through the Provincial Municipal Sustainability Housing Initiative Plan.

This plan has made much progress along the road set by the Board in 2006, a concrete manifestation of CLAHS’ Mission and Vision, and it is with great optimism that CLAHS continues its endeavor to provide more affordable housing in Cold Lake.

Respectfully Submitted,
Richard Wirges, President