City of Kamloops, BC Housing sign agreement to build more housing

The City of Kamloops and BC Housing have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work together on future housing projects and shelters.

The agreement includes the city and the province working together to find locations for housing as well as on site and building design.

BC Housing will be required to provide letters of intent to the city for new projects. The city will be required to complete a land-use analysis to find areas for shelters and support BC Housing when they go through the municipal approval process.

Ten housing projects are mentioned in the MOU that are already underway or proposed.

Currently, there are two supportive housing projects and three affordable rental projects in the development phases.

This includes Katherine's Place will also provide 39 supportive homes for youth.

Additionally, there are two sites that have been identified for supportive housing: the Fortune Motel and Mission Flats Manor.

A property on Campbell Avenue is being considered for housing for seniors and families, one on Glenfair Drive is being considered for senior housing and a third property on Victoria Street is being considered for housing for Métis families.

“Through this MOU, we have strengthened our commitment to work together to end homelessness, provide affordable homes, foster collaboration in research and community messaging, and provide the help needed in our community to help shelter all residents in a safe and secure environment,” said Ken Christian, mayor, City of Kamloops.

Since 2017, nearly 1,300 new homes have been completed or are underway in Kamloops.