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Globe and Mail
3 days ago
- General
- Globe and Mail
B.C. Housing Minister expresses concern after Vancouver abandons controversial supportive-housing project
British Columbia's housing minister says he is concerned about the future of supportive-housing projects in Vancouver after the city quashed construction plans in a west-side neighbourhood amid a legal battle with residents over the rezoning changes. The rezoning for the 129-unit, 13-storey project in Kitsilano was rescinded April 30, after a consent order between a local residents' group and the city essentially overturned a 2022 approval. In an interview with The Globe and Mail, B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon said he was surprised by the city's decision to abandon fighting a lawsuit the Kitsilano Coalition for Children and Family Safety Society had brought claiming the city's public-hearing process for the rezoning was flawed. 'If you don't want concentrations of supportive housing, but then you don't want them in Kits, where do you put people?' he said. Vancouver abandons controversial supportive-housing project in Kitsilano Earlier this week, Mayor Ken Sim told The Globe that the city is trying to work with the province on finding alternative sites, where two 40- to 60-unit projects could be built that fit in better with the neighbourhoods. Supportive housing provides units to low-income people the way social housing does, but also helps with drug addiction, mental-health counselling, medical visits, lifeskills training and more. Mr. Kahlon said the province is willing to work with the city but hasn't seen any 'credible' alternatives so far. 'It is frustrating but we're going back to the drawing board to find alternative sites,' he said, though he added that the province isn't about to buy out any private-rental development currently on offer as city officials have suggested. It's also unfair for some neighbourhoods to declare they're only interested in housing for seniors or other groups they have decided are less problematic, Mr. Kahlon said. The city's move has generated significant reaction, with many supporters saying the site was problematic because it was across the street from a private Catholic elementary school, too close to a women's rehab centre and would have resulted in too many troubled people in one place. Supporters have also criticized the province for trying to force disruptive new housing that they claim would be dominated by drug users into every community. 'This housing, in this location, was not appropriate and the community spoke,' said David Fine, a filmmaker who is a frequent commenter on Kitsilano housing issues on X. 'No one is against some form of social or supportive housing there, just not what was being proposed. In this case, Sim made the right decision.' However, several housing advocates, non-profit housing providers and city councillors are appalled by the move. 'It's a very scary, telling direction that this council is going. We definitely recognize this is going in the wrong direction,' said Donna-Lynn Rosa, CEO of Atira Women's Resources Society, which runs multiple supportive-housing buildings in the city. 'Less housing, less options is not the solution. We're just concerned about these motions that seem reckless.' BC Housing applied to the city four years ago for a rezoning for the building, saying it would provide accessible supportive housing for the many homeless people living in Kitsilano's parks, on its beaches, or near storefronts. But thousands of residents expressed concerns that it would draw new drug users and crime to the area and allow for open drug use right across from the school. OneCity Vancouver Councillor Lucy Maloney said she is going to do whatever she can to support work at city hall to approve supportive housing, after hearing during her recent election campaign that improving the situation for homeless people was one of voters' top three priorities. 'I have to assess the best way to address the problem that Vancouverites said was their top concern,' she said. Ms. Maloney said she was surprised that she learned the news through the Kitsilano residents' newsletter instead of from the city itself. The decision to abandon the legal fight was made during an in-camera vote earlier this year before new councillors Ms. Maloney and COPE's Sean Orr were sworn in. Prominent drug-policy advocate Guy Felicella, a former drug user who champions better treatment and harm reduction, called the move 'NIMBYism at is finest,' noting that city residents are constantly calling on the province for more resources to get people off the streets but then reject providing housing for them.
CBC
23-05-2025
- Business
- CBC
B.C. releases recommendations to accelerate new housing in Oak Bay and West Vancouver
B.C.'s Housing Ministry has released two reports with recommendations to build more homes in two affluent suburbs of Greater Vancouver and Victoria. In 2023, the province ordered 60,000 new homes to be built in 10 municipalities over the next five years. Of that group, the Housing Ministry says only two — Oak Bay and West Vancouver — lag far behind their targets. "Every community and every local government has a role to play as we work together to solve the housing crisis, and make sure that our children and grandchildren can build a good life in B.C. in homes they can afford," Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Ravi Kahlon said in a written statement. The ministry says West Vancouver delivered 58 of its 220 new units in the first year of its housing targets, and Oak Bay delivered 16 of 56. Earlier this year, Kahlon appointed advisers to review the two districts' lack of progress. The ministry says they conducted a two-month review that assessed processes like development approval, land-use planning, and housing policies and practices. Among several points, the reports note the political climate in both municipalities and the likely reasons why housing targets have not been met. "West Vancouver has had a well-deserved reputation as an affluent enclave resistant to change," reads one report. "We heard repeatedly from people that they had paid a premium to live in Oak Bay so they would not have to experience growth or change," reads the other. In both reports, the advisers also note high land prices and reduced interest from the development community as other factors inhibiting growth. But the reports also note that many in the communities, including residents, staff and elected officials, are onboard with creating more housing and have been working to do so. 'This is not about punishing communities' For Oak Bay, the recommendations include delegating minor variances in development permits to staff in order to prevent the politicization of projects when they make their way to council. The recommendations also include amending parking requirements to a minimum of one stall per unit, which the report says is in line with other municipalities. For West Vancouver, recommendations include amending the Official Community Plan and zoning bylaws to increase density in the Park Royal-Taylor Way area, as well as Ambleside and Dunderave Village. The ministry says it will give councils 30 days to comment on the directives, after which they will be issued under the province's Housing Supply Act. "Let me be clear: This is not about punishing communities or removing authority from locally elected municipal councils," Kahlon said in a written statement. "The goal of local housing targets is centred around working with municipalities to remove unnecessary barriers to affordability and get more homes built for people faster, and ensuring we are building healthy and economically vibrant neighbourhoods for people." Recognizing challenges West Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager told CBC News the report for his community is well-written and the advisers "did a very good job." "I think they did a very good job," he said. "They recognize the challenges to the market that exist, and they also recognize the successes we've had." Sager said modifying the Official Community Plan to increase density is already in progress. He said in some cases, there has been strong community support for densification along Ambleside. As for the report's recommendation that the Park Royal area become a transit hub, Sager noted that it requires a commitment from the province and long-term transit planning to address growth along all of the North Shore. Oak Bay Mayor echoed Sager's comments, saying the recommendations didn't come as a surprise. "It kind of validates what we've been saying for the last year or so," Murdoch said. "I think they did a very thorough look at all of the aspects and really at the end of the day reiterated what we said to the province on several occasions, most recently in January."
Vancouver Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
West Vancouver, Oak Bay's history of being "anti-development" has limited opportunities for new housing, finds provincial advisers
Both West Vancouver and Oak Bay's history of turning down developers has scared off potential developers, making it difficult for the two municipalities to build more housing. That finding was detailed in new reports released Thursday by Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon that examined why the two communities had fallen short of provincially mandated housing targets. Under that mandate, West Vancouver had been tasked with building 220 new housing units over the first 12 months of the five-year plan imposed by the province, but only managed to construct 56. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Oak Bay, meanwhile, had been tasked with building 58, but only completed 16. Capilano University instructor Ron Mattiussi, a former director of planning and chief administrative officer for the City of Kelowna, found that while West Vancouver Mayor Mark Sager and his council seem 'somewhat supportive of increasing housing stock' they are also resistant 'to any form of densification that impacts the character of neighbourhoods.' He said that the current requirements for a preliminary application and public meeting before the council considers any project has driven developers away. 'The District of West Vancouver has had a well-deserved reputation as an affluent enclave resistant to change,' concluded Mattiussi. Final thoughts were much the same in Oak Bay where James Ridge, who has previously served as the deputy chief administrative officer for the City of Vancouver and the chief administrative officer for the District of North Vancouver, found the community has a 'long-standing reputation for being anti-development.' He said that there is no evidence the current council under Mayor Kevin Murdoch is trying to get around its requirements under the Housing Supply Act but rather that developers are spooked by past experiences and the current process for approvals is too cumbersome. 'The development community expressed frustration with Oak Bay's processing times, fees, and the political decision-making process,' said Ridge, explaining that almost all new developments currently require rezoning and an amendment to the local community plan. Recommendations provided by the pair of advisers include updating community plans and zoning rules to ease development as well as repair relationships with the development community. Mattiussi said the province should also designate the Park Royal/Taylor Way area as an area requiring transit-oriented development, which would allow units of up to 12 storeys in the surrounding community, and order the province to set a deadline for the council to come up with a plan for the area. He also wants to see the district increase housing density near Ambleside Beach and Dundarave. Ridge likewise wants Oak Bay to work with the University of Victory on opportunities for development on the 40-acres that make up Cedar Hill Corners but does not believe Carnarvon Park, which the council had proposed could hold 24 rental units, is suitable for housing. Kahlon has directed that several of the recommendations be implemented, including that Oak Bay give staff more responsibility over minor variances and amend its bylaws to require only one parking stall per unit. As for West Vancouver, the housing minister wants to see council allow for increased density around Ambleside and Dundarave by September 2026 and complete a create a local area plan for the Park Royal/Taylor Way area by the end of next year. He also indicated he plans to designate the Park Royal/Taylor Way area as a transit-oriented development location. 'Let me be clear: This is not about punishing communities or removing authority from locally elected municipal councils,' said Kahlon. 'The goal of local housing targets is centred around working with municipalities to remove unnecessary barriers to affordability and get more homes built for people faster, and ensuring we are building healthy and economically vibrant neighbourhoods for people.' More to come …
Hamilton Spectator
22-05-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Nisa Foundation's Brand New Transition House Offers Greater Support and Culturally-Responsive Care for Women and Children Fleeing Violence
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In partnership with BC Housing, Nisa Foundation is proud to announce the expansion of Nisa Homes Vancouver, with a brand new location now operating as a 24/7 transition house with double the capacity, new accessibility features, and the addition of a second-stage housing unit for families rebuilding their lives. Operating since 2016, Nisa Homes Vancouver is one of 10 locations operated by Nisa Foundation across Canada, offering culturally-safe housing for women and their children leaving violence, poverty, or homelessness. With this relocation to a new home, the Vancouver project now supports 14 transition beds, features an accessible suite with a stair lift, and introduces a separate second-stage unit where families may stay up to 18 months as they transition to independence. 'Everyone deserves to have safe and secure home, especially women leaving violence and their children,' said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. 'Our government is providing historic levels of funding to support transitional women's housing so people have the support they need to begin a healthier, happier life.' The move comes at a time when the need for safe, women-centered spaces is both urgent and underserved. 44% of women in Canada have experienced some form of intimate partner violence since the age of 15, with nearly a third experiencing physical or sexual violence specifically. And yet, only 13% of emergency shelter beds in Canada are designated for women only. Every night, over 900 women and their children are turned away from domestic violence shelters across Canada due to lack of space. 'New transitional housing spaces will provide safe spaces for women leaving violent situations, where they can renew their hopes and dreams and embark on new beginnings,' said Amna Shah, MLA for Surrey City Centre. 'I want to thank Nisa Home for their inspiring work supporting women as they heal from the devastating impacts of gender-based violence.' These realities reflect a growing national need for trauma-informed, culturally-safe housing — especially for immigrant, refugee, racialized, and Muslim women who often face additional barriers when seeking help. 'This milestone is a testament to what's possible when public partnerships and community come together,' said Shaheen Auckbaraullee, Interim Executive Director. 'We are committed to expanding this model across Canada to ensure more women and their children have access to safety, stability, and support — wherever they are.' The Nisa Homes Vancouver expansion aligns with B.C.'s Gender-Based Violence Action Plan and reflects the Province's commitment to increasing safe housing options for marginalized and vulnerable populations, including those fleeing gender-based violence. NISA HOMES VANCOUVER EXPANSION ANNOUNCEMENT Date: Thursday May 22, 2025 Time: 12:00-1:00pm PT Location: SFU Surrey C Labs - Mezzanine Address: 13450 102 Ave #250, Surrey, BC V3T 0A3 Speakers: Syma Nehal, Nisa Homes Vancouver; MLA Amna Shah, BC Housing Shelter; Sarah Bahri, Client testimonial Handout video and photos of the new shelter location are available here . Spokespeople are available in Vancouver and Toronto. Media must RSVP to attend. Please contact: Nisa Foundation is a national not-for-profit organization providing transitional housing, mental health services, financial aid, and advocacy for women and children across Canada. Nisa Homes, a project of the Foundation, operates in 10 locations nationwide serving racialized, immigrant, refugee, and Muslim women facing domestic violence or homelessness. More support for people facing gender-based violence can be found here: NISA FOUNDATION – FACT SHEET Who We Are Nisa Foundation is a national registered charity dedicated to supporting women and children experiencing violence, poverty, or systemic marginalization — with a focus on culturally responsive care for Muslim, immigrant, and racialized women. We believe that when women thrive, entire communities flourish. What We Offer Nisa Homes: Safe, trauma-informed transitional housing in 10 cities for women and children facing abuse, homelessness, or poverty. Nisa Helpline: Free, confidential peer support for Muslim women and girls — available in multiple languages. Remote Support: Virtual case management, financial aid, referrals, and safety planning across the country. Web Therapy: Affordable, faith-sensitive counselling sessions with licensed Muslim therapists. Our History Our Reach (As of 2025) Why It Matters Nisa Foundation bridges these gaps with programs rooted in compassion, dignity, and cultural safety. Website: Instagram: @ LinkedIn: c
Global News
09-05-2025
- Health
- Global News
Province to build supportive housing for people in Nanaimo
The B.C. government announced it is building housing for people experiencing homelessness in Nanaimo. The province, through BC Housing, is providing approximately $32 million to deliver the spaces across three sites: 50 new units at 1300 Island Hwy. S., operated by Connective Support Society 59 new units at 1030 Old Victoria Rd., operated by Vancouver Island Mental Health Society 78 renovated units at the Sparrow, 1298 Nelson St., operated by Pacifica Housing 'Bringing people indoors is the first step toward stability for people who need it, and is key to strengthening our communities,' Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing and municipal affairs, said in a statement. 'That's why we're providing more temporary housing units with vital supports for people in Nanaimo. Homelessness is a tough challenge, but we've been doing the work and we're starting to make real progress helping people move indoors.' Story continues below advertisement 1:02 Former B.C. Conservative candidate claims her car was intentionally set on fire People who have been staying in overnight shelters will have priority access to the spaces and are expected to move into 1300 Island Hwy. this spring, the province said. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'Move-ins at the other sites will begin in summer 2025. All sites will have individual units, shared amenity spaces, meals and laundry services, on-site staff 24/7, one entrance, and referrals to community programs essential to the health and wellness of residents.' The province also said it will provide new permanent supportive housing to help support people after the eventual closure of temporary sites. A rezoning application has been submitted for approximately 60 units at McKenzie Avenue, adjacent to the 1030 Old Victoria Rd. temporary housing site. 'Without housing, no person can have a healthy life,' Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog said in a statement. Story continues below advertisement 'The partnership with the city set out in the HEART and HEARTH MOU means that over 200 people are going to have a safe secure place to live where they can better their own lives and move beyond the misery of living in the streets.'
