The city has combined forces with First Nations to help people forced to accept unsafe living conditions.
The city is donating their newly purchased land on Fourth Avenue to the Port Alberni Friendship Centre who will oversee the pod project with the support of Tseshaht and Hupacasath.
“The 4th Avenue work is beginning on the site so that project is a partnership with several organizations in our community but will be spearheaded by the Port Alberni Friendship Centre – we’re very greatful for their partnership,” according to Mayor Sharie Minions. “It is intended to be an option to shutdown the illegal trailer site that exists next door.”
Work has begun to clear a city lot on Fourth Avenue before launching a tiny home project.
Minions said they hope to provide housing to people who will be displaced when the city increases action against the neighbouring complex of campers and old RVs.
“We are working toward a tight timeline because we do not want to see another winter with the residents of the 4th Avenue illegal trailer site living in those unsafe conditions so we are hoping for October at this point but working as fast as we can,” she said.
Minions said a task force is being developed to help move people into safer environments.
The city is owed more than $120,000 in unpaid fines on the trailer park.
BC Housing will contribute $750,000 in annual operating funds.
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