The Saanich Community Association Network has been working closely with the District of Saanich and the province to come up with solutions for the housing crisis in 2022.
Saanich Mayor Fred Haynes said enlightening discussions with ministers Lana Popham, Murray Rankin, and Rob Fleming were had at a town hall meeting in early November 2021. Those discussions have informed further planning in the new year around solving the housing crisis, he added.
“(Having) no media present at that event ensured the most open dialogue possible, and we’re bringing that knowledge forward for real-time application now that we’re halfway into January,” Haynes said. Advocating for Saanich to senior levels of government is a key part of the ongoing effort to create affordable living, he noted.
Areas in need of solution were outlined in a report from the District of Saanich and the Housing Task Force, honing in on seven key areas, including increasing affordability, protecting rental housing, supporting housing diversity and reducing barriers to housing development.
“We are currently discussing how community associations can be proactive this year in working with Saanich to achieve positive outcomes for our neighbourhoods,” said network chair Don Gunn in an interview with Black Press Media.
To learn more about the housing strategy visit saanich.ca.
ALSO READ: Saanich council hopes broader planning approach will address urgent need for housing
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