By James Peters

Kamloops council approves unique affordable housing project for Indigenous youth, elders

Mar 28, 2018 | 10:46 AM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops council has approved rezoning for a unique affordable housing project slated for Brocklehurst.

The 31-unit development proposed by Lii Michif Otipemisiwak Family and Community Services will be designated for elders to live with youth aging out of care.

It is planned for vacant property at the corner of Singh Street and Lethbridge Avenue.

Mayor Ken Christian says council’s unanimous approval came after a spirited debate with neighbours.

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“People who were for it talked about the need to support Metis populations and urban Aboriginal populations and the issues related to aging out of care,” said Christian.

“Those who opposed it were concerned about a saturation of affordable housing in the Brocklehurst neighbourhood, property values, crime, traffic, parking, those kinds of things.”

Christian said, despite the misgivings expressed by some in the neighbourhood, council was excited to give its thumbs-up to a first-of-its-kind venture.

“It really has not been tested yet. This would the first [project] where they have a combined accommodation for both elders and for youth. But this will be a supervised environment. There will be 24-7 landlords there as well as wrap-around services to support those people who are occupying those units.”