The Government of the Northwest Territories aims to construct 300 new housing units by the end of its mandate. Housing Minister Lucy Kuptana expresses confidence in achieving this target but emphasizes that far greater efforts remain necessary to address ongoing shortages.
Progress Toward Housing Target
Minister Kuptana provided an update following the tabling of the territorial budget. Premier R.J. Simpson noted during the legislative assembly opening that 81 units stand completed, 155 remain under construction, and 64 are in planning stages. With the government halfway through its term, Kuptana affirms the commitment: “We’re all responsible for it and we have to be accountable.”
Currently, approximately 850 families await housing. New units prioritize seniors and single residents in communities, groups particularly vulnerable to insecurity.
Major Repairs Underway
The housing department tackles repairs on over 600 public units, many requiring extensive work. More than 1,100 units exceed 40 years in age, facing issues like leaky taps, outdated furnaces, and mold. The territory maintains over 2,400 public housing units, with major fixes addressing plumbing, foundations, and electrical systems.
Officials allocate over $30 million for these repairs over the next three years, initiatives that also boost local jobs and trades training.
Homeownership Program Review
Monfwi MLA Jane Weyallon Armstrong questioned the homeownership fund’s eligibility criteria, citing constituents denied due to exceeding income thresholds. “Why have these applicants been deemed ineligible for exceeding this threshold when the home ownership initiative policy makes no reference to this requirement?” she asked.
The program targets adult residents in detached public housing for at least three years, with steady income to cover shelter costs. It excludes applicants from Hay River, Fort Smith, Fort Simpson, Norman Wells, Inuvik, and Yellowknife. Kuptana confirms the fund undergoes review. On the 300-unit goal, she states, “It’s never enough, we need so much more,” constrained by available finances.
