Premier John Horgan has announced a pause on the development of a supportive housing project in Richmond, stating that it will happen eventually, but not yet.
The project, which was set to provide 40 units of supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, has faced opposition from the local community. Residents have expressed concerns about safety and the impact on property values.
In a statement, Premier Horgan acknowledged the concerns of the community and emphasized the importance of addressing them before moving forward with the project. He stated, “We need to ensure that the concerns of the community are heard and addressed. This is a complex issue and we want to get it right.”
The pause on the project will allow for further consultation with the community and stakeholders, as well as a review of the proposed location. The Premier also noted that the government remains committed to addressing homelessness and providing supportive housing in Richmond.
The decision to pause the project has been met with mixed reactions. While some have praised the government for taking the time to address community concerns, others have expressed disappointment and frustration at the delay in providing much-needed housing for vulnerable individuals.
The supportive housing project in Richmond is part of the government’s larger plan to address homelessness and housing affordability in British Columbia. The province has committed to building 3,000 new supportive housing units over the next three years.
In the meantime, the government will continue to work with local communities and stakeholders to find suitable locations for supportive housing projects. Premier Horgan emphasized the importance of collaboration and finding solutions that work for everyone.
While the pause on the Richmond supportive housing project may be seen as a setback, it is clear that the government remains committed to addressing homelessness and providing support for those in need. As the Premier stated, “It’s going to happen, but not yet.”
