December 1, 2016
Manitoba to Transfer Housing Management to Local Agency in Winkler
Manitoba Housing is transferring management responsibilities for 66 publicly owned housing units in Winkler to a community-based non-profit, helping to ensure local housing needs will continue to be reflected in the daily operations of these buildings, Families Minister Scott Fielding announced today.
“This transfer of management reflects our government’s practical, sustainable and community-driven approach to social and affordable housing development in this province,” said Fielding. “In response to the community’s request and to local needs, we are transferring these units in Winkler to their very capable management.”
Effective Dec. 1, the management of 12 senior units and 54 family units will be transferred to Winkler Affordable Housing Inc. (WAH). Properties include several houses, townhouses and seniors blocks. WAH has managed a 24-unit building in the community since 2012.
“We are looking forward to this partnership with Manitoba Housing,” said Michael Grenier, chair, WAH. “Building a sense of community and the benefits of local management are some of the things we plan to accomplish.”
“Under the management of the existing WAH structure, we will have the opportunity to make important management decisions locally,” said Mayor Martin Harder, City of Winkler. “We can better understand and reflect the dynamics of the residents and our community as a whole, encouraging the success of our ‘safe communities initiative’ to help meet the needs of this segment of Winkler. We can now create a concerted effort for a more effective, community-led housing strategy, together.”
The minister noted this management transfer is a pilot project and expected to be cost-neutral for the province and the organization.
“This is an exciting opportunity to recognize the local leadership capacity in Winkler,” said Finance Minister Cameron Friesen. “WAH can help ensure there are strong connections between their properties, their tenants and the community, which is part of a strong and successful housing model.”
Manitoba and the federal government recently announced an expanded commitment to the Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) agreement, representing more than $89 million in funding over the next two years. The new investment is in addition to approximately $166 million in joint eight-year funding to help create more affordable housing options in Manitoba, Fielding noted.
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