Access to suitable housing options and adapting to future community needs are two main goals identified in the city’s Housing Action Plan (HAP).
To meet those goals staff have highlighted five objectives, supported by 26 actions, in an interim report to council.
That homelessness in Kelowna is rare, brief, and one-time; a diversity of housing types and affordability; innovative leadership; collaboration on objectives; and clear decision-making roles for complex housing related issues.
The HAP builds on the 2023 Housing Needs Assessment (HNA) which highlights several challenges including a current housing deficit of 3,750 to 5,000 homes, and the need for up to 20,130 additional homes by 2031.
There is also a shortage of subsidized rental housing, with the HNA recommending “a tenfold increase in delivery, and a need for supportive housing, market rentals, and a wider range of ownership options.”
Engagement with the development community, non-profits and people with lived experience helped shape HAP draft actions by identifying adjustments and identified gaps.
The staff report, which goes to council on Nov. 4, is available on the city’s website.