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Rising costs in mobile home parks: A struggle for affordability
Nestled in picturesque locations, mobile home parks have long been a beacon of affordable living for many. However, recent fee hikes have turned these once idyllic communities into financial battlegrounds.
In places like Greenwood Village, located on the west side of Calgary, residents are grappling with skyrocketing costs that threaten their way of life.
The reality of mobile home living
For many residents, mobile home parks represent a unique housing solution.
They own their homes but rent the land on which they sit, covering costs that include utilities and maintenance. This arrangement has traditionally offered a more affordable alternative to conventional housing. However, as fees rise, the dream of affordable living is becoming increasingly elusive.
In Greenwood Village, the monthly lot fees have surged, with reports indicating increases of up to $500. This spike has pushed the total monthly cost to around $1,250, making it a significant burden for those on fixed incomes. Realtor Deanna Bailey highlights the struggles of residents trying to sell their homes, noting that potential buyers are deterred by the high fees.
“Homes are going for 50 percent less than in other mobile home parks in the city,” she states, illustrating the stark reality of the situation.
Community concerns and political responses
The rising costs have sparked concern among residents and local officials alike.
City Councillor Sonya Sharp acknowledges the distress caused by the fee hikes, expressing empathy for those affected. However, she notes that the issue falls under provincial jurisdiction, complicating the path to potential solutions. The NDP has been vocal about the need for rent control, arguing that Alberta’s lack of restrictions on rent increases exacerbates the problem.
Janis Irwin, the NDP’s Shadow Minister for Housing, has proposed changes to the Alberta Housing Act, aiming to introduce measures that would protect residents from excessive fee hikes. Yet, the provincial government has rejected these proposals, citing concerns that rent control could harm the rental market by discouraging new developments. This stance leaves many residents feeling vulnerable and without recourse.
The human impact of fee increases
As the financial strain intensifies, the emotional toll on residents is palpable. Many fear losing their homes due to unaffordable fees, with some even facing the prospect of homelessness. Bailey, who represents the interests of these residents, expresses her frustration: “I don’t understand how it gets to this point.” Her concerns reflect a broader sentiment among residents who feel trapped in a system that prioritizes profit over people.
The management of Greenwood Village has remained silent on the issue, leaving residents to navigate this crisis largely on their own. As the community grapples with these challenges, the need for a comprehensive solution becomes increasingly urgent. The future of affordable living in mobile home parks hangs in the balance, and without intervention, many may find themselves without a place to call home.
