The Town of Hay River and the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) are announcing the town’s five-year community housing plan, designed to address the community’s unique housing needs, increase housing supply, and improve affordability for residents. 

Hay River’s Community Housing Plan has been developed over a multi–year process, in collaboration with the Town of Hay River and Housing Northwest Territories (NWT). The goals and objectives in the plan reflect community needs and priorities shared by residents through multiple periods of engagement and review. A community Advisory Committee was established to guide and inform a 2021 - 2022 housing needs assessment and the development of the 2023 strategic housing plan.

The plan aims to improve housing outcomes and support residents of all ages, incomes, and abilities through housing policy and other actions. The plan sets a framework to implement and prioritize action-oriented strategies, providing guidance for decision-making. In addition, it will promote new partnerships and greater community awareness of housing issues and opportunities.

Plan implementation will be led by the Town of Hay River with support from Housing NWT and community partners.

Quote(s)

“Ensuring safe, affordable, and diverse housing is available to meet the needs of community of Hay River is defined as a top priority of Town Council.  The release of the Hay River Strategic Housing Plan sets in motion a plan to recognize the many opportunities and evolving demand for housing in Hay River. We thank Housing NWT and the many businesses, organizations, and individuals who participated in the development of the plan and look forward to working with our partners to transform housing supply in the community.” 

- Kandis Jameson, Mayor of Hay River

“The GNWT recognizes that different communities have different housing challenges, and that solutions must be unique, innovative, and guided by input from local residents. Each Community Housing Plan is the product of thorough engagement and collaboration, catering to the unique needs of the community. This can only be achieved through strong partnerships and collaboration – the Hay River Community Housing Plan is proof of that. I am proud of the partnership between Housing NWT and Town of Hay River and look forward to continuing to work together to transform Hay River’s housing situation.

- Paulie Chinna, Minister Responsible for Housing NWT

Quick facts

• Community Housing Plans have been completed and adopted in seven communities: Whatì, Fort Good Hope, Paulatuk, Enterprise, Nahanni Butte, Kátł’odeeche First Nation and now Hay River.
• Additionally, Community Housing Plans are currently in progress at various stages in eight communities: Fort Liard, Kakisa, Łutselk’e, Fort McPherson, Tsiigehtchic, Sambaa K’e, Jean Marie River and Tulita. The Yellowknives Dene First Nation is developing their Housing Strategy with an external consultant.
• Communities where Community Housing Plans will soon be underway include Fort Smith and the West Point First Nation.

Related links

• Community Housing Plans
• Hay River Strategic Housing Plan

For media requests, please contact:

Tami Johnson

Manager of Communications

Policy and Planning

Housing NWT

Tami_johnson@gov.nt.ca

Ph: 867-767-9328, ext. 85029