Bob Rennie, a prominent figure in Vancouver's real estate industry, raises concerns about the feasibility of Mayor Ken Sim's plan to reshape the Downtown Eastside (DTES). While acknowledging the need for change, Rennie questions whether the plan's focus on market housing and pause on new supportive housing will effectively address the complex challenges facing the neighbourhood.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim 's plan to reimagine the Downtown Eastside (DTES) has sparked debate, with one prominent figure in the real estate community weighing in on its feasibility. Bob Rennie , founder of the Rennie Group of Companies, a vocal critic of the existing Downtown Eastside Area Plan, acknowledges the need for change in the neighbourhood but expresses skepticism about the plan's effectiveness.
Sim's proposal aims to increase market housing in the DTES, including a citywide pause on new supportive housing and an update to the Downtown Eastside Area Plan. Under the current plan, which has been in place since 2014, condo development is prohibited in the heart of the DTES, and rental projects must contain 60% social housing and 40% secured market rental.Rennie argues that even with the elimination of the 60/40 housing mix, attracting rental developers to the DTES will be difficult due to the ongoing challenges on the streets. He believes that developers will need significant incentives, such as free density, to make market rental developments financially viable in the area. While Rennie commends Sim for initiating a conversation about the DTES's future, he believes the plan lacks concrete details and calls for more comprehensive solutions involving senior levels of government and non-market housing providers.The plan has also drawn criticism from organizations that work directly with vulnerable populations. Nicole Mucci, spokesperson for the Union Gospel Mission, acknowledges the need for updates to existing single-room occupancy buildings but expresses concern that freezing new supportive housing development will worsen the situation for those experiencing homelessness, especially given the rising cost of living.Donnie Rosa, CEO of the Atira Women's Resource Society, shares similar concerns, fearing that blocking new supportive housing in Vancouver will disproportionately harm vulnerable women, children, and gender-diverse individuals. She argues that without adequate housing and supportive services, these individuals will face increased risks of violence and homelessness
Downtown Eastside Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim Bob Rennie Real Estate Supportive Housing Homelessness
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