Housing Needs Report Summary
FVRD completed a Housing Needs Report for Electoral Area C in March 2021. The report identified minimal housing diversity, affordable housing, rental housing and multi-unit development as gap and issues in Electoral Area C.
Electoral Area C Demographic Snapshot
Anticipated Number of People & Households, Electoral Area C (2016-2026)
Source: BC Statistics
The anticipated number of housing units required in Electoral Area C by the year 2026 is 573. The report projects the population to increase to 1,491 people by 2041. An estimated 675 households will require housing, an increase of 102 households from 2026.
Housing Units Required by Bedroom Type (Anticipated), Electoral Area C
Source: Statistics Canada, 2016 Census of Population, 2011 National Household Survey, 2006, 2011, 2016 Long-form Census
Data Source – Electoral Area C Housing Needs Report, March 2021 (Executive Summary)
Housing Needs Summary Statements
- Affordable Housing
Currently, the only affordable housing is located in mobile home parks where pad rental prices have been increasing and existing infrastructure is in need of repair. Additional feedback from Leq’a:mel Development Corporation highlighted the interrelated nature of housing, employment, and transportation. A coordinated approach to growth is imperative as additional affordable housing options.
- Rental Housing
Feedback from engagement highlighted the need for additional purpose-built rental housing to accommodate those unable to find long-term rental options. The vulnerability of renter households is increasing, and a specific focus is needed to ensure necessary community services are accessible.
- Special Needs Housing
There are no non-market special needs housing units in Electoral Area C. It is assumed that people requiring housing with support services would need to access housing in the FVRD’s Urban Centres, such as Chilliwack and Abbotsford.
- Housing for Seniors
Feedback from Stakeholders in Hemlock Valley emphasized the need for additional housing diversity to facilitate aging-in-place, such as multiunit development. Single-level apartment units can be a viable option for downsizing seniors and new development with a variety of bedroom types can also accommodate first-time home buyers, such as young families.
- Housing for Families
Stakeholders indicated demand has accelerated with COVID-19 as people are increasingly capable of working remotely and have prioritized larger homes close to outdoor amenities. With this trend underway, multi-unit development is increasingly important as a lower-price point option for entry-level homebuyers.
- Shelter for People Experiencing Homelessness and Housing for People At-Risk of Homelessness
There is limited data available regarding persons experiencing homelessness in Electoral Area C. Feedback received from Leq’a:mel Nation highlighted the increasing incidence of people “boondocking” or using RV’s without being connected to water, sewer, or electricity. This presents a public health challenge and coordination is needed among the various levels of government to provide solutions for people experiencing homelessness.
Housing Supply Gaps
- Purpose – Built Rental Housing
There is no purpose-built rental housing in Electoral Area C, and while there are only 35 renter households, the existing rental options are in high demand given the appeal of short-term rentals. It will be important to consider housing options for future residents, such as dedicated purpose-built rental housing for resort staff employees. Currently, the only form of affordable rental housing is located in mobile home parks, where pad rental fees are rising, and aging infrastructure is failing.
- Accessible Housing
Electoral Area C’s population continues to age, it will be important to renovate older units to accommodate changes in life stages and accessibility needs and ensure new development is constructed to meet accessibility requirements.
- Multi-Unit Development
With increasing home prices across Electoral Area C, a greater diversity of building types is needed to provide additional lower-cost housing options for entry-level homebuyers. Feedback from Stakeholders expressed a desire to see additional housing options that may also accommodate downsizing seniors.