"construction on the $135 million project is scheduled to begin in December ... Housing Authority officials learned they wouldn't receive a $6.4 million demolition grant from HUD"*
* http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/portland_news/1065701035317010.xml

Hi David:
Several people have asked me recently how a $150,000 million project that loses $6.4 million results in a $135 million project. Perhaps you do. If so please tell us in your next story. It would also be useful for readers to know exactly what is the difference between a "public housing unit" and a "Section 8" housing unit. Will the physical look and size of the buildings as proposed for a "public housing unit" be the same for the new "Section 8" housing? Will the "Section 8" housing be owned by HAP or sold to private developers? Will the same "class" of HAP client i.e. low, lower, lowest, inhabit the "Section 8" housing as was originally planned for the "public housing units.?

Here are some other housing related questions to ask as you follow this story:
1. What is the total number of privately owned houses to be built at Columbia Villa?
2. What is the square footage of these houses and lots?
3. What is the anticipated range of sale prices for each size house?
4. How many of houses will be the "skinny" type i.e. 25' wide?
5. How many houses will be attached/detached?
6. Will buyers be required to sign a covenant which states that the owner must live in the house and NOT turn it into a RENTAL property?
7. Are there any conditions or restrictions (economic, racial, age etc.) on potential buyers?
8. How much input did the city's office of sustainable development have in designing these houses?
9. Are there any notable or outstanding environmentally friendly, energy efficient or "green" features built into these houses? (e.g. solar water heating, solar electrical generation, "living" roof, special e glass, heat conservation design, etc.)
10. What did HAP's research reveal about the advantages of building shared community resources e.g. heat, hot water etc. (as if Columbia Villa were a large hotel or as it's done at Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat and Conference Center with steam), as opposed to conventional individual equipment required in each separate dwelling?
11. What is HAP's advertising and marketing budget specifically committed to selling these houses?

A month ago I asked HAP these questions. I'm still waiting for an answer.

And finally, a question for you to consider as a reporter. Would you agree that it is essential to know the employer of any member of a public Board or Commission (as it is with political contributors over $50) so that the public and the press may judge whether individual public actions may involve a conflict of interest? Most public Boards and Commissions do post that information on their web sites. HAP does not.

Thank you and good luck.

Richard Ellmyer
Portsmouth neighborhood, North Portland