Now that Kelowna City Council has given unanimous approval for the construction of a supportive housing facility on Agassiz Road near Orchard Plaza, focus has shifted to Rutland. Next on BC Housing's list of Kelowna projects to deal with homelessness is an apartment building planned for McIntosh Road.
KelownaNow canvassed the area and found opinions split on how it will affect the neighbourhood. Among those willing to speak to us on video, most were supportive.
While our video shows mostly favourable comments, there were a few area residents we spoke to who are unhappy about the plans, but declined to state their case on camera.
The property at 280 McIntosh Road was purchased by BC Housing with plans to build 50 studio apartments. The project also includes on-site supports for residents who have been homeless. It will be operated by the John Howard Society. In a letter to area residents and businesses, BC Housing promises that applicants for the units will go through a "thorough assessment process to ensure an appropriate mix of of residents with the right supports".
Unlike the Agassiz Road project, the property is already appropriately zoned for what's planned. That means there is no requirement for a public hearing on the project.
There is a Neighbourhood Information Session planned. It's at the Rutland Centennial Hall, Tuesday January 29th at 5:30 PM. Representatives from BC Housing, Interior Health and the John Howard Society will be there to answer questions.
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