Contrary to public opposition, a supportive housing project in Rutland has been given the go ahead.
The proposal was to consider the form and character of a 4-storey apartment building off McCurdy Road.
Councillor Luke Stack, alongside his colleagues, was very impressed with the design.
“If you look at the pillar work, the brick work, for any other housing project coming forward, the landscaping. I see it being upscale, very attractive and very well put together."
The building will offer 49 supportive housing units controlled by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and two separate rental units controlled by the Knights of Columbus, along with a new hall.
The Knights of Columbus hall will be demolished to facilitate construction of the project.
According to Councillor Gail Given, the project will provide much needed housing for Kelowna’s youth.
“The youth component is significant and the potential for youth homelessness. A project like this really provides a future for those folks and from a form and character perspective I think this particular building would suit any corner, anywhere, in any area of Kelowna,” said Given.
She urged the public not to worry.
“The selection of occupants will be a very select process to ensure the building runs effectively,” she added.
Mayor Colin Basran had a strong perspective. He said the time to complain is over.
“We have a plan and I applaud those who are getting behind the plan and helping us achieve that. So I want to thank the developer, the Knights of Columbus; I want to thank the province of British Columbia and B.C. housing for all getting behind this plan and doing something about it, as opposed to just complaining. And so I really want to thank you for being a part of the solution and not just adding to the problem.”
He said collaboration is the only way we are going to solve the homeless problem in Kelowna.