WHEREAS the lack of affordable andor co-operative housing in northern communities is having a deleterious effect on local economies and the quality of life for many British Columbians; AND WHEREAS affordable housing is essential to support vibrant and healthy communities, and will continue to be required: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM advocate to the provincial government to increase the number of new affordable housing units constructed in British Columbia as soon as possible.
Ministry of Natural Gas Development Minister Responsible for Housing Last year, the Province of British Columbia invested about 400 million to provide affordable housing for more than 100,000 BC households. In the northern region, the provincial government provided more than 32 million to help more than 4,900 low-income households. In September 2014 the Province, in partnership with the federal government, officially opened Victoria Towers in Prince George, creating 91 affordable rental housing for low to moderate income families, seniors and people with disabilities. To help increase affordable housing options for low-income seniors and families living in the private market, the Province is focusing on enhancing its rental assistance programs see Resolution B42. Last year in the north, 300 families and 600 seniors households received rental assistance to help keep their housing affordable. The Province is supporting Kitimat, as well as Port Edward, Prince Rupert and Terrace, to develop Housing Action Plans. These will help to identify specific actions that can be taken by all levels of government and other stakeholders to address expected housing needs over the longer term.