In a recent government meeting, community leaders and city officials gathered to discuss the True North project, a collaborative initiative aimed at addressing housing and health care needs in the northeast region. The project, spearheaded by DePaul Properties in partnership with the Rochester Interfaith Development Corporation (RIDC) and various faith groups, will include the construction of two housing units and a drug treatment clinic.

Gillian Condie from DePaul Properties emphasized the project's significance, stating it is part of a broader effort to restore essential services to the northeast, which has seen a decline in available resources. The initiative aims to provide 70 affordable housing units, with rents ranging from $540 to $1,150 per month, inclusive of utilities and amenities. The housing will cater to individuals with incomes between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI).

The project also aims to integrate clinical services, with Flagler providing mental health and substance use support at the clinic. Notably, the housing component follows a \"housing first\" model, meaning residents will not be required to demonstrate sobriety or undergo treatment to secure housing.

City officials expressed their support for the project, highlighting its thoughtful site selection and the collaborative nature of the partnerships involved. Council members raised questions regarding the financial structure of the project, including the developer's fee and the potential for long-term community investment. It was clarified that while the project is a nonprofit initiative, there are no requirements for residents to engage in faith-based activities, ensuring inclusivity for all community members.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the project's potential to make a meaningful impact on the northeast community, addressing both housing shortages and health care access.