Cohousing great but not on municipal land
Re: Hope remains for Chemainus cohousing proposal - April 18
I have long been interested in cohousing and believe that this concept would make a valuable contribution to the diversity of housing options in Chemainus, however, donating public land (the old Elementary School property) for this development is not something the municipality should consider.
Cohousing is not affordable housing. A significant down payment is required two or three years before the housing is ready to move in. While we have residents who have to decide between paying for rent, food or hydro every month it would not be reasonable for the public to donate land to those who can afford to pay market rates for their housing.
Chemainus, like every community, is sadly lacking in housing for individuals trying to survive on disability or other government pensions, not to mention people doing vital work for low/minimum wages who need affordable rental housing.
That being said, I remain an enthusiastic supporter of cohousing. It’s a great concept!
Kathy Wachs
Chemainus