Statement on Auditor General’s Public Housing Report

NOTE: The following is a statement from Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Lohr.

Prices are rising, housing supply is limited and access to safe, affordable housing is becoming more and more challenging for Nova Scotians. Each of us deserves a place to call home – and we know that some people need our help to make this a reality.

As the government, we owe it to all Nova Scotians to ensure we are managing our public housing units efficiently and effectively. While the issues did not develop overnight and we know there is much to improve, we are taking immediate action to make things better.

We agree with the findings in the Auditor General’s report on the Oversight and Management of Government Owned Public Housing and accept all the recommendations.

We have made progress already on some of the areas highlighted and are working on plans to modernize operations so we can help more people and families. We are reviewing our policies and making changes to ensure consistency and fairness across the province. We have implemented a standardized application process across the various housing authorities and are making it easier for people to apply for public housing.

We have also taken steps to reduce our wait-lists and decrease the turnaround time on vacant units, as well as put measures in place to confirm the eligibility of people waiting for our units. We are working to improve issues resolution for residents. Other actions will take more time, such as implementing a new client service and asset management system and establishing a new governance model.

Part of the response involves creating a new entity to provide independent oversight and governance for public housing as recommended by the Nova Scotia Affordable Housing Commission. This entity will be accountable and solely focused on improving public housing for Nova Scotians from one end of the province to the other.

We are committed to making meaningful change for Nova Scotians in need of public housing, including those currently living in our units.