Whereas the Province of British Columbia has implemented the Homes for BC: A 30-Point Plan for Housing Affordability in British Columbia; And whereas the Plan largely benefits urban areas that have better access to both resources and support services than rural areas: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM call upon the Province of British Columbia to provide funding and support to local governments to facilitate affordable housing projects in rural areas in British Columbia.
Ministry of Housing Government is committed to supporting and working in partnership with small, rural and remote communities to deliver affordable housing that meets their long-term housing needs. To facilitate affordable housing projects, there are several BC Housing programs that local governments throughout BC can access. BC Housings Community Housing Fund supports the development of affordable rental homes for low to moderate income families, independent seniors, and individuals across British Columbia. The HousingHub seeks innovative partnerships to create affordable rental housing and ownership opportunities for middle-income households. HousingHub can provide access to pre-development funding, low-cost financing, expertise and advice on the planning and development process, and project coordination services. BC Housing programs aim to be regionally equitable. Government recognizes that housing requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. The Rural and Northern Communities RNC Program is an example of how the Province partnered with the Government of Canada to ensure the infrastructure priorities of British Columbias small, rural and remote communities are met. However, the last and final intake for the RNC Program has closed in 2022. The Province is also currently working closely with Canada to develop an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy.