Released on October 2, 2000
An innovative funding arrangement involving the Province of Saskatchewan,Regina seniors, and the City of Regina is responsible for a new housing
development in that city.
Located on the former Benson School site, the Regina Seniors' Life Lease
Project will be a 50-unit apartment complex, designed for seniors age 55 and up.
Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, with a $2.25 million contribution from the
Centenary Fund, is funding 45 per cent of the $5 million project.
The Centenary Fund was announced in this year's provincial budget and was
established to help accelerate social housing and a variety of other important
capital projects over the next four years, leading up to the province's
Centenary in 2005.
The city is providing ten per cent of the funding for the project, and the
residents themselves will provide the remaining 45 per cent by investing equity
from their former homes.
"Saskatchewan Housing Corporation has been working closely with communities
over the past number of years to develop imaginative, cost-effective social
housing solutions," Municipal Affairs, Culture and Housing Minister Jack
Hillson said. "The Regina Senior's Life Lease development is just the latest
in a succession of projects tailored to address the unique needs of individual
Saskatchewan communities."
"We are pleased to see this innovative project available in Regina," Mayor Doug
Archer said. "There is strong support in the community for this kind of a
development. The project supports recommendations recently made by the Mayor's
Advisory Committee on Housing whose mandate was to enhance opportunities for
affordable housing for all residents. It provides seniors from the
neighbourhood an opportunity to remain in their community."
To qualify, residents must be 55 years of age or older and have an annual
income of no more than $25,000 for a couple or $20,625 for an individual.
Construction of the project is expected to begin early next year, with
completion scheduled for early 2002. The Transcona Housing Association will be
responsible for the marketing and ongoing operation of the project after
completion.
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For more information, contact:
Maureen Boyle Peggy Clark
Municipal Affairs, Culture and Housing Director, Community Services
Regina City of Regina
Phone: (306) 787-5959 Phone: (306) 777-7318