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In the heart of Edmonton, a charming yet aging apartment building known as Annamoe Mansion is at the center of a heated debate over housing affordability and tenant rights. With its rich history dating back to 1914, this three-and-a-half-storey brick walkup has become a beloved home for many, but recent developments have left its residents in a state of uncertainty.
Rising rents and the threat of displacement
Joseph Rockwood, a long-time tenant, expressed his dismay over the recent announcement of a rent increase that will see his monthly payment jump from $880 to over $2,600. “Who can afford rent of triple suddenly? It’s insane,” he lamented.
This drastic hike, which the new owners, ARH Holdings, claim is necessary to bring rents up to market value, has been labeled by residents as an unfair tactic to force them out of their homes—a practice known as ‘renoviction.’
Rockwood and his neighbors are not alone in their struggle.
Fellow resident Tim Kenny, who moved to Annamoe Mansion after facing a similar situation in his previous home, echoed these sentiments. “This is not a tactic designed to help keep anyone in the building. He clearly wants us out so that he can renovate and carry on with his life,” Kenny stated.
The emotional toll of such upheaval is palpable, as many residents have built their lives around the stability that Annamoe Mansion has provided.
The historical significance of Annamoe Mansion
Constructed to accommodate Edmonton’s burgeoning population of white-collar workers, Annamoe Mansion is not just another apartment building; it is a piece of the city’s history.
Named after a town in County Wicklow, Ireland, the mansion has been a cherished residence for generations. Its character, complete with creaky floors and vintage radiators, has attracted tenants who appreciate its unique charm.
However, the building’s age also brings challenges.
As Rockwood noted, “There’s a certain amount of things that you’ll put up with for a reasonable rent increase.” The expectation of some level of rent adjustment is common among residents of older buildings, but the current increase has crossed a line for many.
Calls for rent control and tenant protections
The situation at Annamoe Mansion has ignited discussions about the need for stronger tenant protections and rent control measures in Alberta. Despite these calls, the provincial government has firmly rejected the idea, citing concerns over potential negative impacts on new housing development. The Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services stated, “Alberta will not go down the ‘disastrous road’ of rent control,” leaving many residents feeling abandoned in their time of need.
As the deadline for the new rent takes effect on July 1, residents like Rockwood and Kenny are left with difficult choices. The looming threat of displacement not only affects their living situations but also their sense of community and belonging. The Annamoe Mansion, once a sanctuary, now stands as a symbol of the broader housing crisis facing many cities, where affordability and historical preservation often clash.
