As BC Housing begins public information meetings about its permanent 52-unit supportive housing development on Fraser Street, the City of Maple Ridge wants to ensure that complex care is part of the plan.
Mayor and Council believe there is an important transparency and competency lens that must be applied rather than a policy of direct awards. Building housing to simply replace Royal Crescent is not enough. Many residents suffer from overlapping problems including addiction, mental health challenges and injuries, so they need “wrap-around” services to be provided. These are our most vulnerable citizens. It’s important that they receive the best services that can be provided
By discussing how we can work with BC Housing to open up the awarding of the operator’s contract to a transparent review and selection process, other agencies – some with local roots right here in Maple Ridge – would have a chance to prove their ability to do the job and provide best outcomes for the residents of the facility and the neighbourhood.