Yorkton Council was presented with a report on the options for entry-level homes in Yorkton at its regular meeting Monday.
"City Council previously reviewed a provincial program oriented to the creation of entry-level housing for purchase in Saskatchewan. This report addresses how the construction of entry-level housing could be initiated in the community," explained a report from Brent Hryhorczuk, Manager of Building Services with the City.
Hryhorczuk said the Multiple Listing Service was "used to establish the price for entry-level housing in Yorkton. This is $187,000."
"In order to have builders meet that price, the lots have to be in the $30,000 to $40,000 range. In order to meet the entry level price threshold, the homes will have an area between 900 and 1100 square feet with no garage."
The idea of entry-level housing was discussed with local home builders, and one builder outside the city, and Hryhorczuk said there is interest in providing such a product.
The report circulated Monday suggested several ways the City might participate in an entry-housing initiative.
"There are 10 lots available in Riverside Meadows Phase II within the price range identified above. The City could make these a priority for entry level homes. The benefit is that these are ready to go once the weather allows a builder to begin construction."
"There are also lots that could be developed as multi-family on Good Spirit Crescent and Pheasant Cove."
"The remaining portion of the C.J. Houston property could accommodate up to 12 entry level homes. Services are in proximity to this parcel and the lots could be ready for mid-to-late summer if Council approves using this parcel for entry-level homes. A new land use district is required to accommodate lots with a smaller width and setbacks than that found in existing residential districts."
"Another option for Council to consider is the development of the land holdings owned by the City around the SGI building on York Road. One cell of this could be developed with lot sizes between 35 to 55 feet to accommodate entry-level as well as market-based housing. Consideration could also be given to having multi-family in one form or another. Discussions with the local builder indicated a desire to have development somewhat similar to that found in McKenzie Towne in Calgary, Alberta. Here the houses are set closer to the street and there are no front garages. There are rear garages but the proximity of the houses to the street allow for greater interaction within the neighbourhood."
Councillor Chris Wyatt said there is only so much influence the City should apply to housing.
"I think we're obligated to let the market dictate (how it is done)," he said.
However, Coun. Ross Fisher said the City needs to investigate what can be done.
"I think it's time we started taking a look at different options we can offer people," he said.
Coun. Richard Okrainec said the information was good, he reminded, "a starter home for some people at $180,000 is a lot of money."
