Editor:
The Sunshine Coast Affordable Housing Society (SCAHS) congratulates all new and returning elected officials on the Coast. During this electoral campaign, all candidates spoke of their commitment to increasing the supply of affordable housing, and we look forward to working with those whose campaigns were successful to see this commitment borne out. SCAHS is a non-profit organization made up of local residents with experience and interest in housing and a shared goal of increasing housing options for individuals and families who are having difficulty affording rents in the current market.
One such project under consideration for Gibsons was mentioned in your Oct. 7 issue (“Petition calls for preservation of Charman Creek Lands”), and the article indicated several misunderstandings it’s important to clear up so that Gibsons residents have the facts about this project. First, the Inglis Trail will not be affected in any way. Secondly, the proposed project’s “disturbed site area,” including all buildings and site works plus a surrounding buffer area, would cover only about nine per cent of the existing property. Site planning is being carefully done to ensure that if the project moves ahead at this location the impact on mature trees is minimal. The proposed housing mix is currently conceived to be eight bachelor, 12 one-bedroom, 14 two-bedroom and six three-bedroom units, with all ground-floor units designed to be accessible for those with mobility issues. The location, close to public transportation, schools and shopping, would be ideal for young families, and could decrease their reliance on cars. To ensure financial viability, the project would include a mix of just below market rental units in order to cross-subsidize more deeply affordable rental units.
SCAHS would like to clarify that this project is still in the concept stage and will be subject to a fulsome community consultation process before any final decisions are made or approvals granted. Check the Town of Gibsons website and Facebook page for information about upcoming public information sessions.
Dion Whyte, President, SC Affordable Housing Society Board of Directors
