City Council gives approval to transitional housing project

Prince George City Council has approved a transitional housing project to be operated by BC Housing.

The project was approved at a Special Council meeting tonight. (Monday)

According to a report presented to council, the facility will have 44 units for overnight sheltering with a capacity for two people per unit, with additional amenity/storage trailers with the use of temporary trailers.

BC Housing has also indicated the project would include drinking water and washroom facilities, and food services.

However, BC Housing is requesting the City of Prince George cover the cost to service and grade the proposed site at 397 Third Avenue to prepare the site for the project.

The preliminary estimate of this cost is $468,126.

“I look at this investment as a way to move forward but also not only provide a safer accommodation for our residents currently living at the encampment, but also as a way probably to be more wise with our taxpayer dollars,” said Councillor Tim Bennett.

“I think about the amount the City’s currently investing in Fire Rescue response and Bylaw response, in various investments we are currently making to be responsive to the encampment, I look at being able to bring 44 units that will accommodate those who are currently living at the encampment.”

Councillor Kyle Sampson said he wants this project for the community and that it’s a need in the city, but he’s frustrated over the City paying for something that is a provincial responsibility.

“I’m frustrated because we’re already giving land for an undetermined amount of money, but I reckon a lot of money,” Sampson said.

“It feels like the province is essentially holding municipalities hostage for the highest bidder, they’re only willing to do projects like this in municipalities who are willing to put up the dollars.”

The approval of the project will be subject to:

• Council approval of a temporary use permit to allow for the transitional housing facility use on the subject property;
• the City entering into a lease agreement with the Provincial Rental Housing Corporation (BC Housing) for use of the subject property for the proposed transitional housing facility on terms and conditions satisfactory to Administration; and
• BC Housing providing written confirmation to the City that the transitional housing facility project described in the staff report will be constructed and opened as soon as practicable in the Servicing Brief dated December 15th, prepared by L&M Engineering.

Council voted 6-1 in favour of approval, with Councillor Sampson opposed.

Councillor Brian Skakun and Garth Frizzell were absent from the meeting.