A proposed affordable housing project in Amherst, Nova Scotia, is facing an appeal, causing a delay in the construction of the apartment complex. The YMCA of Cumberland intends to build two buildings with a total of 36 units at 1 Albion St., with plans for its housing outreach staff to operate from one of the buildings. The project aims to allocate one-third of the units for supportive housing pending provincial funding approval.
Trina Clarke, the CEO of the YMCA of Cumberland, expressed understanding of the appeal process and remains confident in the project’s development. Despite Amherst town council approving the development agreement with a 4-2 vote in July, resident Ray Hickey challenged the decision on August 4, citing concerns about the impact of supportive housing on the local community.
Hickey highlighted existing issues such as public safety, citing instances of drug use and a recent fatal shooting near an emergency shelter and supportive housing units. These concerns have led to a decrease in downtown foot traffic and raised apprehensions regarding safety in the area.
Ashley Legere, executive director of the Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association, emphasized the importance of community engagement following the appeal. Legere acknowledged the challenges faced in addressing safety concerns around private properties and highlighted the organization’s dedication to ensuring staff and guests’ safety.
While not directly involved in the YMCA project, Legere underscored the significance of initiatives like this in addressing the housing crisis. The development garnered support from various local non-profits and Nova Scotia Health during the planning stages, with Clarke emphasizing its role in addressing long-standing downtown issues.
Hickey also raised concerns about the lack of amenity space in the project, alleging a violation of the municipal planning strategy. The project plans to provide just over 300 square meters of shared outdoor space without balconies, which falls short of the minimum requirement specified in the land-use bylaw. However, town planning director Andrew Fisher defended the project, stating that the amenity space provided was deemed sufficient and residents could utilize nearby parks.
Clarke estimated that the appeal could potentially delay the commencement of construction by six to twelve months. She highlighted the urgency of addressing the growing housing crisis and expressed disappointment at potential delays in projects like this one.