In August, Housing Squamish opened applications for eight new family-oriented duplex units at the Highline at Garibaldi Springs Housing development. To ensure fairness and maximize housing opportunities, we established clear eligibility criteria. Applicants were required to work in Squamish for at least 20 hours per week and meet specific income, employment, and asset verification requirements. An online application process was used to streamline submissions.
In just over three weeks, the response was overwhelming, with almost 200 unique applications from individuals and families seeking affordable housing in Squamish. The swift and enthusiastic response highlights Squamish’s need for new housing opportunities, particularly for those who live, work, and contribute to the local community.
After we closed the application window at the end of August, we used a lottery system to assign homes, employing randomization software to assign a number to each applicant, establishing a priority order. Families with dependents under 19 were prioritized for the first lottery, and the eight family applicants (four for the 2bd units and four for the 3bds) were then asked to provide further information and verification. We are excited to share that we are now in the final stages of identifying the eight successful applicants who will be moving into their new homes in the upcoming months.
Located in the Highline at Garibaldi Springs neighbourhood, the new cottage-style homes are part of a collaborative effort between Housing Squamish, the District of Squamish, Polygon, and BC Housing. With four two-bedroom and four three-bedroom homes, the duplex units are ideal for small and growing families. Housing Squamish will oversee the operation and management of the units, ensuring they meet the needs of the community.
Over the months and years to come, we will be using similar partnerships and application processes to ensure more community members will be able to move into a Housing Squamish-owned and managed home, with the guarantee that rents will remain affordable. Continue to look on our website for more information as these opportunities become available.