New affordable housing units proposed for Picton
Administrator | Apr 28, 2013 | Comments 6
The Prince Edward-Lennox and Addington Social Services (PELASS) committee approved funding for seven affordable housing units in a new 17-unit “LYFE” apartment building to be constructed by local developer, Sandbank Homes Inc.
The approval follows the review of responses to an “open to all” Request for Proposal. The “LYFE” apartment building, is to be built three blocks from downtown Picton – at the top of Downes Ave – and is to contain 10 two-bedroom units and seven one-bedroom units (two of which are barrier free). The building is intended to house tenants 55 years and older. The two-story building will include an elevator and each unit will have self-contained laundry facilities.
PELASS approved $697,000 in the form of a 20-year forgivable loan through the provincial / federal ‘Investment in Affordable Housing’ program.
The approved funding subsidizes the construction of seven one-bedroom units which must be rented at or below 80 per cent of the average market rent. Construction is to begin in late 2013 with a targeted completion date of summer 2014.
“The PELASS committee is very aware of the need for more affordable housing and is pleased to support a proposal that will result in seven more affordable housing units in our community,” says Bev Campbell, Chair, Prince Edward-Lennox and Addington Social Services Committee.
Filed Under: Local News
PELASS also administers Prince Edward Lennox Addington Housing formerly know as Ontario Housing Corporation before being downloaded to Municipalities .. So this will not be their first kick at the can so to speak…
much needed housing. wise to oversee build closely.
PELASS has a questionable history
Rather then offering interest free loans, they have leveraged above average interest rates on local employers attempting to stay above an already troubled economy.
I will be interested to see how this pans out, as there is an obvious need for cost effective housing in the county for both young and old.
Does anyone know what “LYFE” housing or apartments are?
With regard to for-profit developers building “affordable housing” a friend with years in the business supervising many big $$$ projects commented to me –
“I’m really interested to see what they build and the standard of materials, externally & internally. We’ve always had a major fight here with “for profit” developers. Mostly, they are consumed by profits. They are always trying to cut corners. We’ve learned to put most of the specifications in the RFP, otherwise they build something that is falling apart in 5 years and from the get go looks like “subsidized” housing…”
I hope PELASS knows what they are getting into and gets good advice and solid contract.
Sounds like a good idea and a good place to build,
The people in the other building upthere seem to enjoy it
Affordable housing is probably one of the most important issues facing PEC. I’m glad to see PELASS and Sandbanks taking this initiative.