City seeking feedback on housing strategy recommendations

Similar to many communities in Alberta, the City of Lethbridge is experiencing housing pressures due to changing demographics and market trends.

In 2019, the City of Lethbridge completed a housing needs assessment as part of the development of a Municipal Housing Strategy and Implementation Plan to address housing needs over the next five years.

The Implementation Plan proposes a series of short- and medium-term goals in a number of priority areas, such as developing opportunities and targets for supportive housing and housing which is affordable to households with low to moderate incomes, expanding housing choice in low-density residential districts, and protecting existing rental housing.

“We know that more supportive and affordable housing is needed and generally supported, but we want to explore what that may look like by engaging with Lethbridge residents,” said Maureen Gaehring, Manager of Planning & Development for the City.

A phone survey from March 25 to April 8 and online engagement from April 20 to May 3 will provide residents an opportunity to provide feedback regarding potential changes to the Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw to support the implementation of the Municipal Housing Strategy.

The City wants to understand the level of awareness and support, and perspectives and concerns among the public. Engaging with residents on the housing recommendations is critical to ensure that changes to the Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw are reflective of residents’ needs and preferences.

Gaehring added, “Residents are encouraged to participate in the engagement process to help shape how the Municipal Development Plan and Land Use Bylaw will be updated to support the implementation of the short-term housing goals.”