Resolutions

Therefore be it resolved that the SUMA request the Government of Saskatchewan to commit to, and work jointly with, the Government of Canada to establish and fund a permanent and predictable affordable Housing Plan.

Response: Government announced it is leading the development of a comprehensive housing strategy that will be completed by the end of June 2011. SHC has been tasked by Government with co-coordinating with housing sector stakeholders, including rural and urban municipalities, home builders and developers, non-profit housing providers, real estate organizations, chamber of commerce and community-based organizations across the province. This long-term strategy will strengthen Saskatchewan’s housing system, focus on the need to remove barriers to efficiency in the housing sector, and give emphasis to affordable and accessible housing. As part of this work, SHC will be conducting consultations across the province during the month of March. Consultations will occur in 10 communities during this time, culminating with a housing summit scheduled for April 19-21, 2011, in Saskatoon. SHC also continues to work with provinces and territories to explore opportunities for longer term stable housing funding with the federal government. At present, discussion is focused upon the renewal of existing funding agreements (Affordable Housing Initiative and the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program ) which are set to expire at the end of March 2011.