The Summerland Housing Task Force is hoping to bring the public and community groups together to share ideas and discuss possible solutions for addressing housing needs in Summerland.
At the end of this month, they’re hosting “A Community Conversation on Housing” at the Summerland Library. The information and networking event will take place at 7 p.m. on January 30 with representatives from the District of Summerland and B.C. Housing, who will provide brief presentations on the current housing situation and outline the role each organization can play. Local stakeholders, including non-profits and faith-based groups, will also share initiatives they are working on.
“This community conversation will provide an opportunity for groups and individuals to discuss strategies and compare notes,” said Erick Thompson, chair of the task force. “There are some great initiatives already underway, and we want everyone to be aware of what each other is doing. Perhaps partnerships can be made, and we can help move these projects along sooner.”
Following the presentations and questions from the floor, there will be time for networking and further discussion.
“There is a lot of conversation about the need for affordable housing. But what options do we have and what resources are available? How can organizations in our community collaborate? We hope to create a common dialogue that moves us forward,” said Thompson.
Those interested in housing may wish to read the District of Summerland’s Affordable Housing Report, officially released this month. The report is available as part of the January 8, 2018 council agenda package and will also be posted on the District’s website.
The Summerland Housing Task Force was created by the Summerland Chamber of Commerce. The group’s key objective is to help facilitate housing projects by bringing stakeholders together.