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A recent initiative proposed by Mayor Ken Sim of Vancouver to pause new supportive housing projects has sparked concern among various organizations that have invested significant time and resources into developing housing solutions. These groups are particularly anxious about the potential impact on projects that are already in progress.
Last month, Mayor Sim announced his intention to draft a proposal that would temporarily halt the construction of new supportive housing units. His rationale centers on the belief that the city should prioritize updating existing housing rather than expanding the stock amid increasing supply in surrounding areas.
Julie Roberts, the executive director of Community Builders, shared that her organization has been actively engaging with city representatives in weekly meetings regarding the design and construction of a 64-unit supportive housing facility. Although the project received council approval the previous year, uncertainty looms as neither city officials nor the mayor’s office have clarified whether the proposed pause will affect their plans.
In a similar vein, Donna-Lynn (Donnie) Rosa, CEO of Atira, an advocacy organization focused on housing and women’s issues, noted that her organization’s upcoming projects, including a building set for occupancy this summer and another undergoing renovations, are not currently deemed at risk. However, she mentioned that city staff have yet to provide clear guidance on the matter.
Ongoing Projects Amid Uncertainty
According to data released by BC Housing, there were 795 supportive housing units classified as “underway” in Vancouver by the end of September 2024. This figure encompasses all projects that are in the planning, proposal, or construction phases.
Moreover, the City of Vancouver reported that there are five supportive housing projects with a total of 330 units at varying stages of securing development or building permits, along with one additional project that has 53 supportive units currently under construction. The city emphasized that any alterations to the policy would necessitate direction from the city council.
The city’s statement reassured stakeholders that the existing development permit process would continue to operate, allowing staff to process applications for social and supportive housing in line with current policies until any council resolution regarding the mayor’s proposal is passed.
As of now, there is no specific timeline for when Mayor Sim’s proposal will be presented to the council, leaving many community organizations in a state of anticipation regarding the future of supportive housing in Vancouver.
Source
globalnews.ca