iqoncept / Depositphotos.com
Lanark County Council has approved a new local priority for the rent-geared-to-income (RGI) centralized waiting list. The trial period, set to begin April 1, will prioritize individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. Housing Services Manager Kaitlyn Murray explained that this decision addresses rising homelessness rates and limited affordable housing options.
The local priority will allocate one in five offers to those on the county’s by-name list for chronic homelessness. Provincial priorities, such as those fleeing domestic abuse or human trafficking, remain at the top of the waiting list. Local priorities come next, followed by applicants in chronological order.
As of October 2024, 44 households were deemed chronically homeless, with an average of 38 per month. This policy aims to support vulnerable groups and address local pressures. Murray estimates that 11% of RGI offers will go to those meeting the new local priority criteria. More details are available by contacting Housing Services.
