There is confusion in Mission surrounding an affordable housing development that was recently denied by BC Housing. The new building on 2nd Avenue has 92 units and is ready for people to move in next month. It is the tallest building in Mission. Without funding, the developer says he will have to put the units up for rent at market price. The CEO of Apex Western Homes believes the application may have been denied because the units have gas installed instead of electricity, which wasn’t a code requirement when the development process began. There is also a gas air exchanger on the roof. Raymond Vesley, the developer, expressed his disappointment at the denial, stating that it doesn’t make sense to him as the building is completed and ready for residents.
Vesley partnered with a non-profit housing provider called More Than A Roof Housing Society. The organization stated that they respect the processes BC Housing has in place to determine funding eligibility for its programs, including the Community Housing Fund. They are hopeful that an alternate path can be found so that the affordable housing development in Mission receives the necessary funding to finalize the project. Mayor Paul Horn expressed confusion over the denial, noting that there are about 180 people in the community who need affordable housing immediately. He described the building as purpose-built, concrete, and gorgeous, stating that anyone would be happy to live there. Horn emphasized that it doesn’t make sense that the necessary funding couldn’t be found to make the project work at the price point being provided.
Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon disputed the idea that the building was rejected due to its use of gas instead of electric. He stated that BC Housing conducts independent reviews of all applicants for affordable housing projects, and while this particular project ranked fairly well, it didn’t make the cut for funding. Kahlon mentioned that the project could potentially apply for the Indigenous Housing Fund, which is currently available. He acknowledged that the market is tough and that there are many projects seeking government assistance with funding. Kahlon emphasized that they do what they can with the resources available and cannot save every project that comes their way.
Overall, there is confusion and disappointment in Mission over the denial of funding for an affordable housing development with 92 units. The developer, Raymond Vesley, expressed his frustration at the situation, as the building is completed and ready for residents to move in. The non-profit housing provider More Than A Roof Housing Society is hopeful that an alternate path can be found to secure the necessary funding for the project. Mayor Paul Horn and Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon both expressed confusion over the denial, with Horn emphasizing the urgent need for affordable housing in the community. Kahlon explained that while the project didn’t receive government funding, it may be eligible for the Indigenous Housing Fund. The situation highlights the challenges in securing funding for affordable housing projects in Mission and the importance of finding alternative solutions to meet the needs of the community.
