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SAANICH APPROVES FLEX-PLEX HOUSING AFFORDABILITY PROJECT - May 30, 2007 |
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Saanich – On Monday, May 28, the District of Saanich gave fourth and final reading to new bylaws enabling the Flex-Plex Housing Affordability Project to proceed on a vacant lot at 3494 Bethune Ave, bordered by Saanich Rd., Bethune Ave, and Blanshard St. The Flex-Plex Housing Affordability Project concept was initiated in 2002, after exploratory discussions between Saanich and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association-Victoria, led by Pat Caporale, Project Committee Chair and Past President. “We have worked diligently with municipal officials and the community to create a project that will be a strong asset to Saanich and the region,” says Caporale. “We also appreciate the support of Habitat for Humanity, BC Housing and the Affordability and Choice Today (ACT) Program, which have been important partners during this process.” Two years ago, CHBA-Victoria partnered with Habitat for Humanity to help develop the project and identify families with limited incomes. The Flex-Plex Housing Affordability Project consists of five titled units, including three accessory dwelling units contained within the larger units. The accessory units can be used as extra living space, caregiver suites, or rental accommodation serving as a mortgage helper. It is the first such zoning in the District of Saanich, and will assist housing affordability for families with limited income. “This new zone represents an opportunity for those on limited incomes to achieve home ownership, while also providing rental opportunities for a wide demographic in our community,“ says Gordon English, President, CHBA-Victoria.“We are very pleased the District of Saanich has enabled this project to move forward, providing more affordable housing opportunities for families in need,” says Ron Drane, President, Habitat for Humanity. “We invite both private and public sector organizations to participate in the construction of this important project by donating materials, financial resources, or volunteering their time.”The Flex-Plex Housing Affordability Project was designed by Art Finlayson, A J Finlayson Architect Ltd., and Daniel Boot, Design Consultant. Additional partners include BC Housing, and the Affordability and Choice Today (ACT) Program. ACT is a municipal regulatory reform program sponsored by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and delivered in partnership with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, the Canadian Home Builders' Association and the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association. Additional financial support was provided by Coast Capital Savings. For more information on participating in the Flex-Plex Housing Affordability Project, contact Jack Shore, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity at 598-4760. -30- |
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CHBA Victoria #1-3690 Carey Road, Victoria, BC,
V8Z 4C2 |