Special Council Meeting Highlights

November 8, 2018

Social Housing and Supports

Council agreed to reallocate $50,000 of the 2018 budget from Accounting to Development Services to fund possible contract services for work involving advocacy, engagement and support initiatives for social housing in the community. Funds not used in 2018 will be carried forward into 2019. The Westside Shelter Society indicated earlier this year it would not be providing a homeless shelter at its previous location this winter, and the City is working collaboratively with the shelter society and Westbank First Nation to secure a new location for this winter. Council was advised that BC Housing is actively looking for properties on the Westside to build supportive housing to serve the communities. The City can aid BC Housing by providing property review assistance and efficient land use application processes, provide consistent messaging between organizations and attend public engagement opportunities. A Social Issues Research Paper, completed in March 2018, included a list of recommendations, which Council will consider at upcoming 2019 strategic planning sessions.