Victoria, BC– The Capital Regional District (CRD) has acquired the property at 280 Georgeson Bay Road on Galiano Island for the proposed Thuthiqut Hulelum’ Housing Project ("Forest Homes" in the Hul'q'umi'num' language). The property was formerly known as "Galiano Green". The $672,000 purchase is a move to advance a 20-unit rental housing complex aimed at enhancing the Islands affordable living options.
“Affordable housing in the Southern Gulf Islands is my top priority and the acquisition of this property marks a significant step forward in addressing this critical need,” said Paul Brent, Electoral Area Director for the Southern Gulf Islands. “We are committed to creating inclusive, sustainable communities, and the Thuthiqut Hulelum’ Housing Project stands as a beacon of hope for low to moderate income individuals and families seeking a place to call home.”
The property was previously owned by the Galiano Affordable Living Initiative Society (GALI), a non-profit charity which diligently prepared the site for the affordable rental housing project. GALI’s efforts ensured the land was zoned for 20 affordable rental housing units by the Islands Trust and prepared the site to be development-ready in accordance with the sustainability objectives confirmed through the zoning process. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, GALI will be the project operator once the Occupancy Permit is issued.
In September 2023, the CRD Board approved the use of $2,750,000 Growing Communities Funds (GCF) to progress the Thuthiqut Hulelum’ Housing Project. Those funds are being used to purchase the property with the remaining GCF to be used as equity towards the construction of the project. The CRD is also continuing to pursue additional equity funding which is required before construction can begin.
Upon completion, Thuthiqut Hulelum’ will offer a diverse array of housing options catering to low and moderate-income residents, Indigenous Peoples, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families. Its strategic location provides easy access to essential amenities and services, including the local market, fire department, elementary school, and the Galiano Community Hall, fostering a connected and inclusive community.
The CRD is developing a Rural Housing pilot program for the Southern Gulf Islands and Salt Spring Island Electoral Areas with the understanding that solutions to the housing crisis need to look different in rural communities. Thuthiqut Hulelum’ is an example of the scale appropriate for multi-unit affordable housing suited to our island communities.
The CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and government partners to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.bc.ca.
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CRD Corporate Communications
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