Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hub City Village?

Hub City Village is the actualization of the efforts of Creating Housing Coalition and countless volunteers and supporters throughout the community. It is the first tiny house community in Albany, Oregon that addresses the needs of those in the community that are unhoused or in unstable housing. The village is based on a cooperative self-governing model in which each resident is responsible for the governance and maintenance of the village. It comprises 27 tiny homes, two of which are ADA accessible. There is a resident building for meetings, classes, and other resident gatherings. Off-street, solar covered parking for both cars is located on the property, along with sidewalks and greenspaces throughout. Hub City Village is located at 241 Waverly Dr, Albany, Oregon.

What is a housing cooperative?

A housing cooperative is a corporation formed for the purpose of providing housing to its members on a continuing basis. It is owned and governed by its members. A cooperative is distinguished from other housing associations by its ownership structure and its commitment to cooperative principles.

How much does it cost to build a tiny home?

The average cost to build a tiny home is approximately $75,000. However, the cost is much higher when land and infrastructure is figured in.

How is the Village being funded?

The financing of Hub City Village comes from several sources. A significant portion of funding has come through several federal, state, and city grants awarded to CHC. Other sources include local individuals and foundations in the community.

Is this Transitional Housing?

Hub City Village is permanent housing. The tiny homes are built on a foundation and have heat, hot water, electricity, a kitchenette,  bathroom, a bedroom and living area. Residents can stay as long as they want to or are able.

How will Hub City Village be Sustainable?

All of the homes in the community are being constructed using sustainable principles to build an environmentally responsible and resource-efficient village. Metal roofs rather than asphalt shingles are being used, which will significantly prolong the roof life to 100 years or more. Solar panels used to power the village make the energy costs to the village more stable over time. Native, edible, and beneficial insect plant materials will account for much of the landscaping of the village grounds. As well, a community garden located on the grounds will allow for residents to grow their own food.

Who owns the village?

Creating Housing Coalition owns and controls the property for the express purpose of low income housing. In order for the property to remain in that state in perpetuity, a land trust will be established upon completion of the village.

How are rental rates determined?

Rents are based on local utility and insurance costs as well as cost estimates of future maintenance. All residents must have a source of income – either fixed (SSI, SSDI, retirement) or from employment. Residents will need to have an income equal to or greater than the cost of rent. In lieu of a co-op membership fee being paid up front as in most cooperatives, residents will pay on a monthly basis. The money is held until the resident decides to move out of the village. This will enable them to create a modest asset that can be cashed out if and when they choose to leave. In other situations, this would be considered a deposit.

How will Village residents be chosen?

Residents will be chosen through a multi-organizational effort utilizing the Adult Services Team to identify candidates. The Adult Services Team comprises a number of service organizations within Linn County. The application process will include an orientation session and interview. The selection process will begin in April 2024.

Can residents get evicted?

Yes. All residents will agree on a lease and a code of conduct. If the resident breaks the lease, they can be evicted. This will be decided by the village board members, although the CHC board will have final authority.

Who will manage the Village?

The village will be managed by the residents using a cooperative, self-governing model. It will be a democratic community in which each person has a voice in shaping how the community is operated and managed – creating a foundational sense of ownership. All residents must abide by a basic code of conduct outlined in a community agreement, requiring that each resident participate in managing the village. A board of directors will be established by the residents to set up and enforce rules and bylaws. A Peer Support Specialist will live on site to help guide residents in need of services.

How will conflict be handled?

All board members will be trained in Restorative Justice, a form of conflict resolution. Restorative Justice emphasizes accountability, making amends, and -if they are interested – facilitated meetings between victims, offenders, and other persons. The Restorative Justice Team will be a part of the Membership Committee comprised of residents trained and motivated to engage in facilitation and conflict de-escalation.

What types of classes will be offered?

Class topics will include conflict resolution through restorative justice, money management, healthy cooking on a limited budget, and gardening. Other self-help workshops will be offered on a regular basis. This will enable the residents to live healthy and productive lives while reducing the need for outside services.

How will the village benefit the city of Albany?

By reducing homelessness, Hub City Village will save the city of Albany money by reducing costs for needed services. Some examples of this are:

• Reducing the use of emergency rooms. Studies show that having stable housing is a predictor of fewer trips to the emergency room. Stable housing also helps residents manage chronic health conditions before it becomes an emergency.
• Fewer calls to the fire department and ambulance.
• Fewer complaints about loitering and other misdemeanors made to the police department.

Albany residents can feel satisfaction in becoming part of the solution by spreading compassion and hope to those in the community who are less fortunate.