It’s important to understand that the financial woes dominating Bainbridge Island’s city government go way beyond the lack of revenue coming in to cover the expenditures going out. That’s the catalyst, perhaps, but the effect is becoming far-reaching into the community. And, as often happens, those with less are suffering the most.

As Barbara Clarke, chair of the island’s Housing Trust Fund’s executive committee reminded the council this week, the city is charged to address the following stated goals in its comprehensive plan: to foster diversity of its residents; provide a variety of housing choices; and provide affordable housing.

Gradually, the crisis has decreased the amount of funding the city has been able to give to HTF, which uses the dollars to provide a safety net for island residents who have housing problems. As the needs have increased with the recession, social service organizations such as HTF and Helpline House have continued to struggle to meet the demand.

Clarke said HTF took a big hit this year when the city didn’t fund an anticpated $200,000 and has stopped transferring new funds to the organization. She said that by the end of 2011 or early 2012 HTF’s funds will be depleted unless the city responds with additional monies.

“Our quest to the council is basically this: How will the city meet the needs of independent living, requests from HRB (Housing Resources Board) and other emergency housing needs, such as the support of the Rhododendron Apartments?”

No answer was given, other than acknowledgment of the problem, because the council doesn’t have a response right now that would put a smile on Barbara Clarke’s face. It’s a tough time. The council is trying to avoid bankruptcy and the pain being felt in the community is on the rise. What can we do?

Hopefully, the council will solve the financial dilemma during the next year or two, but it will take a community effort to reach out and help those in need to stay afloat. Neighbor to neighbor.