Habitat for Humanity can build a home at 907 Ominica St. E.
Council unanimously approved the organization’s request for the city to supply its residential lot, waive the cost of the building permit and give a tax exemption on the property until the home is occupied during Monday’s meeting. Council did not approve providing water and sewer servicing costs as the organization also requested.
“We believe that access to safe, decent and affordable housing is a basic human right that should be available to all,” said Brian Martynook, chairman of Habitat for Humanity. “We serve working low-income families who would otherwise not be able to purchase their own home.”
He said the organization doesn’t start building a house until it has raised at least $125,000.
“That’s certainly in line with our contributions to partnering on social housing projects for special needs,” said Coun. Don Mitchell. “I think it’s important for the city also to step up to the plate and provide at least a contribution. The numbers are small in terms of addressing affordable housing needs, but it’s a positive example and hopefully it will grow quickly with the kind of support we’re providing here.”
For more information, see Wednesday's edition of the Times-Herald.
