With several projects on the horizon, Mayor Nic Milligan is looking forward to seeing Fernie make progress in tackling its housing shortage.
Fernie has a pair of upcoming affordable housing developments that are set to break ground this year.
“We continue to partner with and support the much-needed housing and childcare pilot adjacent to the Aquatic Centre and to work with the Elk Valley Family Society’s redevelopment of the old fire hall site,” said Milligan.
“We have provided long-term leases for both these properties and prioritized staff time to support these affordable housing projects.”
Fernie’s Planning and Development Group will also back the city’s progress in addressing its housing woes with new strategies.
Milligan says this will further speed up development in the community once it is fully in place.
“We have been implementing the Local Government Development Approvals Process improvements to streamline development and have awarded the contract for an online development application management software solution,” said Milligan.
“Following an initial beta test and pilot and once implemented, we will work with end users to tweak and to optimize it to the greatest effect.”
Fernie’s proposed new fire hall will reach a crucial point this year, with the public holding a deciding factor.
“Next steps continue in earnest with a request for proposal prepared to advance design and to provide greater cost clarity and certainty,” said Milligan.
“A referendum is currently slated for Fall 2025 to understand the community’s wishes when it comes to borrowing for this urgently needed facility.”
Milligan is eager for what is to come for Fernie and hopes residents will get involved, too.
“Please join us for our budget open house. It is an important process and an opportunity to keep your Council informed as to what is important to you,” said Milligan.
“I invite you to join us for our regular Council Cafés the first and third Monday of every month (except statutory holidays).”
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