City moves to shut down DTES homeless camp
A tent city in the heart of the Downtown Eastside has increasingly become the subject of scrutiny and security, as city officials attempted Tuesday to move dozens of homeless people from the city-owned site into shelters.
Located at 58 West Hastings St., the site has been on the city’s radar since July. A notice was issued to those camping in the area on Oct. 21, giving them a deadline of noon on Oct. 25 to relocate.
Officials say the camp violates city and fire bylaws, and presents serious health and sanitation concerns. A press release from the city notes the area is monitored on a 24-hour basis.
More than 60 calls for service – including four assaults – have been made to the Vancouver Police Department since July. More than 20 emergency calls for service have been fielded by the Emergency Health Services, and two Fire Chief’s Orders have been given to campers for the removal of fire hazards.
The recent windstorms have further deteriorated conditions at the camp. Shelter spaces have been made available to accommodate those living in the area.
“Despite the city, VPD and VF&RS’s efforts, the camp continues to deteriorate, posing significant health and safety risks to everyone on the site,” the press release notes. “As a result of this continued deterioration, it has become necessary for the city to take action.”
– John Kurucz, Vancouver Courier
Home sales to continue to slow over next two years
The implementation of the provincial government’s 15 per cent foreign buyers tax is one of the reasons home sales will likely continue to slow in Metro Vancouver, according to a report by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) released this week, but sales over the period are expected to remain over the 10-year average.
CMHC forecasts that in 2016 overall, between 38,600 and 41,400 homes will change hands. This is down from 43,145 units sold in 2015 but remains well above the 10-year average of 33,000 units. In 2017, home sales will dip to between 33,500 and 36,300 units. In 2018, sales are expected to grow slightly, to a range of between 34,400 and 37,600 units.
“Sales this year are expected to slow after three consecutive years of double-digit gains,” the CMHC said in its outlook. “A potential increase in mortgage rates may also have a dampening effect on sales in the outlook, while positive underlying demographic and economic fundamentals are projected to support housing demand.”
These fundamentals include increases in employment and population.
Prices are expected to increase over the next two years, despite slowing sales. In 2016, the average sale price will be between $957,400 and $1,056,600, up from $902,801 in 2015. In 2017, the range will grow to between $966,200 and $1,089,900, and in 2018, the average price will be between $1,006,900 and $1,161,100.
– Emma Crawford Hampel, Business in Vancouver
