Debert Gets Affordable Rental Housing Project

Residents of Debert will soon have access to more affordable rental housing with the approval of a $1.5-million, 24-unit project under the Canada-Nova Scotia Affordable Housing agreement.

Geoff Regan, federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of Joe Fontana, Minister of Labour and Housing, and Nova Scotia Community Services Minister David Morse, made the announcement today, Sept. 22.

"The government of Canada is committed to supporting affordable housing for those Canadians who need it most," said Mr. Regan. "We are pleased to be making this investment to create affordable housing units for Debert residents. Together with our partners, we are helping to build healthy, sustainable communities across the province."

"This project is going to be of tremendous benefit to the community," said Mr. Morse, "because it addresses an identified need for affordable rental housing for singles, families and seniors in the area."

The project, to be located in Colchester Park, will receive funding from both levels of government and the developer. The government of Canada is providing $600,000 in up-front capital, the province is providing $375,000 in rent supplement funding, and Country Lane Home Decorating Ltd. is providing $187,500 in cash and land valued at $37,500.

The project is one of four announced today by Mr. Regan and Mr. Morse. Other projects include 24 units for seniors in New Minas, 16 units for seniors in Chester and 4 units for persons with disabilities in Westville. To date, a total of 83 new rental units totalling $6.5 million have been announced for the province.

It is expected that 850 to 1,500 affordable housing units will be created or renovated under the $37.3-million Affordable Housing agreement by 2007.