By Erin Knutson

The City of Fernie unanimously accepted Kakin Lands and Resources Development Corporation’s request for a letter of support to help the organization participate in Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) Housing Supply Challenge – Level-Up program at their recent special council meeting.

Kakin’s CEO Trent Fequet petitioned for the city’s backing as a progressive innovator for regional development in the Kootenays.

“Through our discussions with organizations and municipalities such as yours, no issue is more pressing than the need for rapid, sustainable, and affordable housing,” he said in a letter to mayor and council.

The Level-Up program will grant $1 million to 20 foundational solutions to the housing crisis, according to Fequet.

“Level-Up is addressing the entrenched housing affordability crisis in Canada. To increase housing productivity, we must transform the housing sector to meet the nation’s housing needs more swiftly and cost-effectively,” he said.

The initiative aims to help streamline, automate, and increase the production of housing in Canada to meet the lack of supply and the massive demand for affordable accommodations.

Kakin has developed an Indigenous-led model as a prototype to be replicated by First Nations communities.

“By synergizing the needs of First Nations, municipalities, and industry, we will localize construction, reduce barriers and red tape, and shorten timelines to increase the overall supply of units,” said Fequet.

With the council’s support, Kakin can submit their solution to CMHC, qualifying them for a potential $1 million to go toward developing their vision.

A slight amendment to the wording in the letter provided to the city was decided upon by the mayor and council after it was received by Coun. Kyle Hamilton and seconded by Coun. Troy Nixon.

“Successful solutions will lead to quicker development, reduced costs and permanent improvements in Canada’s housing delivery process,” said Fequet.

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