Report on affordable housing

The Affordable Housing Review Panel was appointed to review Alberta’s affordable housing system in July 2020. This review explored ways affordable housing can become even more affordable and accessible for people with low income. Nearly 500,000 Albertans spend more than 30% of their household income on housing, which is unaffordable according to the standard for affordability. This is causing waitlists for affordable housing to get longer each year. Currently, more than 110,000 Albertans live in affordable housing, while 19,000 more households are on waitlists.

The panel’s recommendations will be used to transform how Alberta’s affordable housing system is delivered so it is financially sustainable and able to address growing demand.

Minster Pon released a statement on October 6, 2020 regarding the report. 

“I was pleased to receive the report from the Affordable Housing Review Panel with recommendations to transform affordable housing in Alberta. The affordable housing system has not changed structurally for more than two decades.

“The panel spent the last three months finding ways to better serve Albertans in need of housing, and make the best use of taxpayer dollars.

“At the table, we had some of Alberta’s most experienced people in the housing sector. I am confident the combined expertise of the panel members and the valuable insights from Albertans will help us identify more efficient, effective, and sustainable approaches to affordable housing.

“I thank Mickey Amery, MLA for Calgary-Cross, who chaired the panel, and all the panel members for their tireless work. Since July 9, they heard from almost 160 Albertans through engagement sessions and received more than 120 written submissions.

“The thoughts and ideas shared with the panel are extremely valuable, and I appreciate everyone who took the time to participate.

“I look forward to reviewing the report and sharing it with my government colleagues for their consideration as well. Once this is complete, we will share it with Albertans.”

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