COUNCIL ADVISED TO TAKE ACCOUNTABILITY ‘FOR THEIR FLAWED ACTIONS’: MINISTER
I feel it is incumbent on me as acting Minister of the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing to address the situation related to $5 million in much-needed Rapid Housing Initiative funding to support affordable housing in Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM).
When I learned of the situation earlier this week, I was very disappointed and department staff immediately began working with the municipality and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to help resolve the issue.
I am pleased to see that together, with our guidance and CMHC’s willingness to come to the table quickly to find a solution, CBRM will be able to keep this vital rapid housing money in the community and will get more affordable housing to people who need it the most in CBRM.
During the emergency meeting of CBRM council on March 10, it was suggested that the province wasn’t supportive through this process. That is a complete fabrication. We are in a housing crisis. We as governments must act urgently and intentionally to increase housing. It was disappointing to hear CBRM placing blame rather than taking accountability for their flawed actions, only to reverse course due to public pressure.
When we have these opportunities to bring millions of dollars in affordable housing to communities, we have to do whatever it takes to make it happen. Let this be a lesson that we at all levels of government need to be nimble and ready for these opportunities and work together to find solutions and overcome barriers.
Colton LeBlanc. Acting Minister Municipal Affairs and Housing
OPINION
en-ca
2023-03-14T07:00:00.0000000Z
2023-03-14T07:00:00.0000000Z
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