Some northern B.C. communities will share in nearly $1.5 million in provincial grants to study housing needs.
The money comes from the government’s first intake of the housing needs reports funding program.
The Kitimat-Stikine Regional District will receive $45,000 for the Hazelton, New Hazelton, and electoral area B.
Masset will receive just under $15,000, Port Clements $15,000, Telkwa $15,000, and the Town of Smithers will get just under $20,000.
“We have long known there are gaps in our housing supply and a low rental vacancy rate,” says Smithers mayor Taylor Bachrach in a news release. “A housing needs study will give us a community-wide view of our housing situation and help us choose approaches that will best meet current and future demands. We greatly appreciate the funding announced today and our ongoing partnership with the Province to ensure appropriate, affordable housing for all.”
The governments will compile reports to assess key housing needs, including the need for affordable housing, rental housing and homes for seniors, people with special needs, families and people at risk of homelessness.
The program is administered by the Union of BC Municipalities.
