VOICE OF THE PEOPLE

WHITHER HOUSING ACCOUNT?

We continue to see shelters being erected within the metropolitan region, although it was not that long ago when the Halifax police received backlash from the public for removal of many structures at the direction of the Halifax Regional Municipality.

I was quite surprised to hear HRM Mayor Mike Savage say recently that housing was the responsibility of the province. If that is the case, perhaps he can explain why council approved (13-2 vote) a $1.8 million deal with developer George Armoyan so Mr. Armoyan would not have to include affordable housing units in his new high-rise being built on Robie Street near Quinpool Road. At that time, October 2019, the money was to be put in a “yet-to-be created account.”

Perhaps Savage and Coun. Waye Mason would provide a detailed report on how the funds have been used to date, and whether any were used directly in providing affordable housing to low- and moderate-income earners.

Interesting that now in 2021, housing is the responsibility of the province, when in 2019 HRM did not see a need to discuss this deal with anyone except council.

Also, HRM will receive $8.7 million for affordable housing units under the federal Rapid Housing Initiative, and let’s hope that these funds will be used for the purpose of improving the lifestyle of those requiring affordable housing and that HRM and the province will work together in attempts to resolve the growing problem of affordable housing and homelessness. Donna Fraser, Halifax