Strathcona County partners with Heartland Housing for affordable housing

Every County resident deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clearer than ever that affordable housing is a key component to supporting individuals and families in today’s economy.

Today Council agreed that Heartland Housing Foundation would move forward as the successful proponent of a public process involving using County land for the purpose of developing affordable homes. The former site of Clover Bar Lodge on Fir Street will be transferred to Heartland Housing to continue the tradition of affordable housing at that location.

“As a community, it’s important for us to recognize that some of our residents are just one pay cheque away from potential homelessness,” said Mayor Rod Frank. “Having this piece of land utilized for affordable homes and managed by a local partner will meet a key need in our community that residents have been asking for and, more importantly, support their safety and well-being.”

Housing affordability has been identified as a challenge. When it comes to renting, census data shows 35 per cent of tenants are paying more than 30 per cent of their income on shelter alone, exceeding the national baseline for housing affordability. Further, 16 per cent of all renter households are paying more than half their income on shelter costs.

“Heartland’s priority is to ensure this new community will meet the evolving needs of County residents of all ages,” said Heartland Housing Foundation’s chief executive officer Nancy Simmonds. “Our aim is to work with community partners to ensure the future of Fir Street is one that is vibrant, safe, and inclusive. We look forward to revitalizing the former lodge site and creating a new space that is inviting and modern.”

Heartland will begin the planning phase with community consultations in partnership with the architect to create a vision for the property that is complimentary to the surrounding neighbourhood.

Next steps for this work include the development of a functional design scope to optimize the use of the site based on community needs, a community engagement campaign, architectural design, and submission to Council for rezoning approvals.

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Contact:
Strathcona County
Communications
780-410-6595
strathcona.ca

Heartland Housing Foundation
Adrienne Richard
Communications Manager
arichard@heartlandhousing.ca