Penticton City Council Approves Non-Profit Housing Project, Adding 60 Affordable Units

What's Happening?

The Penticton City Council has unanimously approved a non-profit housing project that will add 60 units of affordable housing on the site of the former Shielings Motel. The project is a collaboration between the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society, M'akola Development Services, and the City of Penticton. The development will include studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, with a fifth of the units being fully accessible for people with disabilities. The project also features 42 parking spaces and 1,420 square meters of amenity space. The Brain Injury Society will occupy the ground floor for their offices. The city plans to submit an application for the Community Housing Fund in the fall, aiming to secure grant funding for the project.

Why It's Important?

This development is significant as it addresses the growing need for affordable housing in Penticton, providing accessible living options for individuals with disabilities. The collaboration between local organizations and the city highlights a community-driven approach to tackling housing shortages. The project also supports the Brain Injury Society's mission by providing them with office space, enhancing their ability to serve the community. If successful in securing funding, this initiative could serve as a model for similar projects in other regions, potentially influencing public policy on affordable housing.

What's Next?

The next steps involve submitting the application for the Community Housing Fund and negotiating road access with neighboring properties. The specifics of road access will be determined during the building permit stage, contingent on grant funding approval. Stakeholders, including city officials and community organizations, will continue to work together to ensure the project's success and address any logistical challenges.