Stephen Welchner (MBC News photo)
A community-driven idea to create affordable housing in Perth is getting close to one of its biggest moments yet — welcoming people home.
Construction continues at Linden Housing Co-operative at 79 Wilson Street West, with the first members expected to move in around Feb. 1, or potentially a little earlier.
Chair Steven Welchner told LanarkLeedsToday.ca’s Lynda D’Aoust the building is now watertight, allowing crews to focus on interior work through the winter.
When D’Aoust asked what residents will eventually find inside, Welchner said the project combines private homes with spaces designed to bring neighbours together.
The new building will include a community kitchen, common areas on two floors and a porch. Each unit will also have its own kitchen, washer and dryer.
There is still an opportunity to become part of the community.
One-bedroom units have a housing charge of $1,390 per month, with hydro and optional parking extra. Applications can be completed at lindencoop.ca.
D’Aoust also looked back with Welchner at how quickly the project has moved from an idea discussed at The Table Community Food Centre in 2023 to a multimillion-dollar development.
Before major government funding could even be pursued, roughly $200,000 had to be raised.
Welchner says local support made the difference.
More than $12 million has since come through CMHC, including more than $3 million in grant funding. Lanark County and the province have also contributed, while project partners have invested in the development.
For Welchner, however, Linden is about more than constructing apartments.
He told D’Aoust the co-operative model gives the people living there a direct role in shaping their community.
Members will elect their own board, while major decisions will be made democratically with each member having an equal vote.
It is a fitting next step for a project built through cooperation from the beginning.
From early fundraising and community supporters to government funding, construction crews and future residents, D’Aoust’s conversation with Welchner showed just how many people have helped turn an idea into a place nearly ready to be called home.
More information, eligibility details and applications are available at lindencoop.ca.
Listen to Lynda and Steven’s full conversation below.
