3 Housing Unit developments
Written by Jeremy Zafran on 18 December 2024
Three significant developments in the delivery of Housing services has been announced by The Housing Unit of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK), passed by consensus at the recent Council meeting. The MCK will finance the construction of the Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation On-Reserve program Section 95 Project #9 through the CMHC Direct Lending Program – or another lender, if required – in the amount of $491,422 dollars. This translates into four to six new rental units that can be built. To meet current market price increases (in the cost of construction, inflation, and other factors), there will be an increase to the On-Reserve Loan Guarantee limit to $400,000 dollars, enabling individual access to needed financing in securing their homes from the ‘Caisse Populaire Kahnawake.’ A 5% down-payment and meeting specific criteria are still required by the ‘Caisse.’ The Council of Chiefs also approved authorizing the financial subcommittee of the Client Based Services Committee (CBSC) the ability to approve write-offs for mortgage accounts that are in good standing, following a reconciliation of accounts for elders and special cases. The decision will be based on criteria from the enforcement policy, which includes the ability to pay, financial impacts, and special situations. The total amount for possible write-offs will not exceed $500K. Housing Portfolio Lead Ratsénhaienhs Ryan Montour on the Housing Unit’s commitment to the community:
“The MCK is committed to improving the quality of life for our community members by ensuring that our people have access to affordable, safe, and sustainable housing, these new developments represent a significant step forward in securing the future of our people and are a reflection of our continued dedication to building a strong, self-sufficient community.”
Executive Operations Officer Alan-John Rice on needs addressed by the 3 decisions taken:
“By increasing the loan guarantee limit and providing affordable housing units, we are addressing the immediate needs of our community while laying the groundwork for long-term growth, our team remains focused on meeting the community’s housing needs and creating opportunities for homeownership, with financial solutions tailored to the unique needs of Kahnawa’kehró:non.”