The City of Courtenay is inviting non-profit societies to submit proposals for the design, development and operation of an affordable or supportive housing project on a city-owned site at 810 Braidwood Road.

Courtenay CAO David Allen said the housing project has been identified as the top strategic priority for the current Council term. “We’ve been looking forward to this day,” said Allen. “Launching the request for proposals is a huge step for this project. It’s important for the city and the entire community. There’s still a long way to go, but we’re very eager to see the submissions.”

The city, along with social planning consultant John Jessup, consulted with the Comox Valley Nurses Network, AHERO, and BC Housing on the request for proposals (RFP).

Proposals will be reviewed by a working group including representatives from the City of Courtenay, the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, and Island Health.

Interested societies may wish to partner with other service providers (non-profit organizations or public service agencies) to provide a range of housing solutions and services.

The successful applicant will need to design a community and neighbourhood consultation strategy as an essential part of the process.

The Province of BC, through BC Housing, has provided a $50,000 Proposal Development Funding loan toward the design and development of the project. $10,000 of this has been put towards social planning consultant fees. The remainder would be available to the successful applicant to support their proposal. 

The city would provide a rent-free 60-year lease on the property to the successful applicant, and would also consider paying for municipal fees and charges. To assist with making the project financially viable, property tax forgiveness would also be an option for a limited time period.

The RFP is posted on the City of Courtenay website at www.courtenay.ca/bids, as well as on BC Bid. Submissions must be received by May 19, 2015 at 2:00 pm.