At a special council meeting Friday night, Richmond city council decided to approve the controversial Brighouse modular housing project for homeless people.
After 10 hours, two meetings and listening to approximately 80 people, the majority of councillors decided it was time to make a decision.
All councilors except Chak Au voted for the project to move forward.
City staff were authorized to negotiate terms for a five-year ground lease for the city-owned modular housing land at 7300 Elmbridge Way, and to negotiate an agreement with BC Housing and RainCity outlining roles and responsibilities.
The staff will report back to council within two months.
Au tried to convince other councillors to have an agreement ready first before approving the project, but his idea was opposed by everyone else.
Many councillors shared their compassion towards the homeless and their view that the project is important for the City of Richmond.
“What we’ve done here is to show some compassion to people,” said Coun. Derek Dang.
“If I wasn’t around and my kids were homeless, I want to have the thought that there will be a program in place to help them out."
Coun. Ken Johnston said a phrase from Stephen Hawking helped him make the final decision.
"He said, 'we need to live together with tolerance and respect.' In the name of tolerance, in the name of respect, I support this project," said Johnston.
Coun. Linda McPhail said the provincial funding is an opportunity to build a project in Richmond which "there is an urgent and vital need for," but council understands residents’ safety concerns and will work to address them.
"I know that there are many questions and concerns; I have them as well. We need to ensure there are regulatory processes when going forward. I’m committed to that,” she said.
Coun. Carol Day said the city will ensure there is an “opt-out” option if the program has any problems.
“Tonight is just the beginning. We will nail down the details. If this doesn’t work out, we shut them down. You have my word,” said Day.
Coun. Bill McNulty, who previously opposed the project because of its location in the city centre, changed his mind at the meeting and said the location is good.
Au said he was disappointed that there was no opportunity to discuss alternative options before the decision was made.
Supporters for the project applauded council’s decision while opponents told the Richmond News they are disappointed and will continue to pay attention to the project.
The temporary modular housing project at 7300 Elmbridge Way will provide 40 new homes with 24/7 supportive services for the homeless within the community.
