Addressing Homelessness and 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:
- Bylaw No. 850 being “Emergency Shelter and Supportive Housing Land Acquisition Service Establishment Bylaw No. 52, 2009, Amendment No. 1”
- Bylaw No. 851 being “Comox Valley Homelessness Supports Service Establishment Bylaw No. 389, 2015, Amendment No. 1”
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. 851 being “Comox Valley Homelessness Supports Service Establishment Bylaw No. 389, 2015, Amendment No. 1”. Please visit the Affordable Housing AAP webpage for information concerning proposed Bylaw No. 850 being “Emergency Shelter and Supportive Housing Land Acquisition Service Establishment Bylaw No. 52, 2009, Amendment No. 1”
Proposed Changes
The CVRD is advancing initiatives that will grow affordable housing in a sustainable, collaborative and proactive manner. By enhancing the supports provided through the Homelessness Supports Service, the CVRD can help build capacity of local non-profit housing organizations and provide strategic investments to strengthen and accelerate their efforts.
Through the adoption of Bylaw No. 851, the CVRD is proposing to increase the maximum annual requisition for the Homelessness Supports Service from $421,000 to $550,000.