Sechelt will ask its community associations to identify at least one unused road dedication in their neighbourhoods that would be suitable for affordable housing to be built.
As Sechelt has several community associations, during its April 17 regular meeting, Sechelt council directed staff to ask each of them to assist in creating a more affordable district.
The list of dedications is set to be brought before the committee of the whole for discussion before the end of September.
Coun. Alton Toth brought forward the motion and said he is asking the community associations to participate in this because council regularly hears that they don’t feel consulted enough, and because they know their areas best.
“We need to innovate and try some different things because Sechelt doesn't own a whole lot of land, but we do on these road dedications,” said Toth, adding that the district may end up only using one or two of the suggested dedications.
Coun. Adam Shepherd supported the motion, saying that the community associations have become more involved in serious issues affecting the town, noting that they are “leading the way” with emergency preparedness.
“If we can have people out there coming up with some creative ideas, at least letting us know about them, we would welcome that. This is a great community opportunity,” said Coun. Donna Bell.
Council unanimously supported the motion.
Jordan Copp is the Coast Reporter’s civic and Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
