Affordable Housing AAP

Addressing Housing Affordability

The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is proposing changes to two housing-related services: Service 450 (Emergency Shelter and Supportive Housing Land Acquisition) and Service 451 (Homelessness Supports), to strategically meet the changing needs and requirements of the community.

Since 2020, the CVRD has undertaken evaluations of regional housing needs and the evolving housing market conditions. These processes have been methodical, inclusive and transparent, and align with the Regional Growth Strategy, Poverty Reduction Plan, Housing Needs Assessment, and 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, which included specific direction from the Board to develop a response to the housing crisis that focuses on: 

  • Establishing a vehicle for regional housing collaboration, coordination, advocacy and development focused on affordable non-market rental housing; 
  • advocating to the Province for emergency shelter housing; and 
  • continuing to support the Comox Valley Coalition to End Homelessness.

On November 12, 2024 the CVRD Board gave three readings to the following bylaws:

An Alternative Approval Process (AAP) for each bylaw is now being conducted in accordance with the Local Government Act to seek elector approval.

This webpage provides information concerning proposed Bylaw No. 850 being “Emergency Shelter and Supportive Housing Land Acquisition Service Establishment Bylaw No. 52, 2009, Amendment No. 1” and the AAP. Please visit the Homelessness Supports AAP webpage for information concerning proposed Bylaw No. 851 being “Comox Valley Homelessness Supports Service Establishment Bylaw No. 389, 2015, Amendment No. 1”

Proposed Changes

The CVRD is advancing initiatives that will grow affordable housing in a sustainable, collaborative and proactive manner, involving the following:

  1. Building: Create a non-profit Housing Corporation to support the development and operation of new affordable rental housing to complement the efforts of the non-profit and private sectors.
  2. Financial and Capacity Building Supports: Help to support and build the capacity of local organizations and provide strategic investments to strengthen and accelerate their efforts.
  3. Access to Land: Develop a Non-Market Housing Master Plan to unlock new development opportunities by connecting available lands with housing organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions