Province Seeks Input on Innovative Housing Strategy

Nova Scotia families, people, municipal governments, community groups and others will be able to help craft the province's first long-term affordable housing strategy.

Community Services Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse, today, Nov. 7, announced the launch of a public consultation that will include several public meetings in communities across the province. Consultation will also take place with housing partners.

Nova Scotians can learn more and submit input online at http://housing.novascotia.ca.

"For the first time, the province will have a plan to address the housing needs of Nova Scotia families and face the challenges ahead," said Ms. Peterson-Rafuse. "We know that when people can choose the housing that's right for them, they are healthier, better educated, more self-reliant and our communities are more vibrant."

The consultation will seek feedback on innovative, practical housing solutions being proposed, including:

• Developing and supporting diverse, mixed communities with people from a wide range of incomes, backgrounds, housing and family types
• Promoting partnerships with community groups, local government and businesses to deliver real and lasting housing solutions
• Offering innovative options to ensure more Nova Scotians have access to affordable housing and the option to buy their home, if they choose
• Enhancing programs that fund home repairs, renovations, adaptation and energy-efficiency
• Improving the range of services available to homeless people, especially those with chronic illness, disability or mental illness

The input will help the province develop a strategy that offers people better affordable housing options and community supports. "Healthy and vibrant communities should be a reality in the lives of all Nova Scotians," said Phoenix House executive director Timothy Crooks. "The key element to this being possible is appropriate and diverse housing options. We are very pleased with the strong leadership by the province and the upcoming consultation around the housing strategy is an important opportunity for individuals to engage and help shape their own futures."

Nova Scotia has some of the oldest public housing in Canada. Each year the province helps about 40,000 people find housing.

"We all have to be thinking about the future of housing in the province, and affordable housing is part of our mission," said Paul Pettipas, chief executive officer of the Nova Scotia Home Builders' Association. "Through this consultation, we will be able to work with the province and other organizations to develop the type of housing that meets the future needs of Nova Scotians."

Public meetings will be held in seven communities across the province, beginning Nov. 16. People can find the details for the each session, a copy of the consultation paper and a feedback form at http://housing.novascotia.ca.

The final affordable housing strategy is expected early next year.