In North Central Regina, the government is demolishing vacant public housing units on Angus Street, citing safety risks due to their poor condition, with some having been damaged by fire. This move has drawn criticism from the NDP opposition, who argue that it reflects government neglect and worsens the housing crisis. Community workers and local residents express disappointment, suggesting that these units could have been renovated to provide more housing for the homeless, especially as temperatures drop.
Priscilla English and Chelsea McCallum, local workers, lament that the buildings could have lasted longer with proper maintenance, while resident Bobbi Eashappie and Rob Ponace emphasize the need for renovated housing rather than demolition. The units being torn down are part of a broader issue, with approximately 3,000 public housing units vacant across the province.
In response to the situation, NDP Leader Carla Beck has promised to renovate 500 units annually and reverse a $40 million budget cut to address the housing shortage if elected. The government has not outlined plans for rebuilding but suggests the land could be repurposed for community use by third parties.
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