Construction is underway of a new group home for individuals with developmental and physical disabilities.
The BC Housing project is located at 1201-30th St. NE, across from Setters Neighbourhood Pub. When complete, it will house up to maximum of five people.
BC Housing says the project was initiated in response to a request made in May 2017 by Community Living British Columbia for a licensed group home in Salmon Arm.
“This is replacing an aging group home elsewhere and will provide people who are already appreciated, long-standing Salmon Arm residents with a warm, family-style new and accessible home,” says Community Living British Columbia. “It will be well cared for with a commitment to be a positive and responsible part of the neighborhood.”
The home will be operated by Thompson Community Services, a society with more than 30 years experience in the social services sector operating residential support programs throughout the province.
There was some confusion in the community regarding the nature of the facility as no notification for the development was received by neighbours.
City development services director Kevin Pearson explains in a release, “There is no statutory obligation for the city to issue notifications for building permits, and more specifically for licensed care facilities that fall within the parameters of the Community Care and Assisted Living Act.” That same act overrides the city’s zoning for the property, R1 Single Family Residential, which doesn’t permit licensed care facility as a use.
BC Housing says construction of the group home is expected to be completed this fall.
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lachlan@saobserver.net
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