The City of Fort St. John has approved the sale of city-owned land for just one dollar to support a major affordable housing project. The land, located at the corner of 96th Street and 100th Avenue, will be transferred to the Fort St. John Association for Community Living (FSJACL), a non-profit group dedicated to helping residents with developmental disabilities and complex needs.
The decision was confirmed through a public notice from the city on September 3. Officials said the transaction follows the rules of the Community Charter, which allows municipalities to provide assistance by selling land at less than market value when it serves the public interest. The site will be developed into a purpose-built rental building with at least 50 units. Twenty percent of the apartments will be priced below market rates, offering affordable housing options for residents facing financial challenges.
This project is part of a larger downtown housing plan that FSJACL and the city announced earlier this year. Ryan Harvey, communications manager for the city, explained that this land sale applies to the east portion of the property. On the west side, an unrelated seniors housing complex is already under construction. By providing land at a symbolic cost, city leaders aim to encourage investment in affordable housing and ensure that non-profit organizations can deliver long-term community benefits.
The FSJACL has been active in the region for decades. According to its mission, the organization works to help people with developmental disabilities and other complex needs live meaningful and independent lives. Its programs include housing support, employment opportunities, and community services that promote inclusion. Leaders of the organization say this housing project will not only provide affordable rental units but also create a more inclusive downtown. Residents who face barriers to housing will gain access to secure, stable homes, helping them participate more fully in community life.
Municipal officials stress that housing affordability is one of the city’s top priorities. Rising rents and limited supply have made it difficult for many households to secure stable accommodation. By using city-owned land to support non-profit development, leaders hope to ease the pressure on local families. The Community Charter gives local governments the ability to sell property under appraised value if the project aligns with public goals. In this case, the city determined that providing land to FSJACL will help address the shortage of affordable homes while strengthening social support networks.
Affordable housing projects like this are designed not only to lower rent costs but also to improve community well-being. Stable housing has been linked to better health outcomes, stronger employment opportunities, and reduced social challenges. While the project is still in its early stages, the land sale marks a major milestone. Construction of the new rental building is expected to begin once planning and approvals are complete. Local residents and community groups will be invited to take part in future discussions as the project moves forward.
City officials believe this partnership demonstrates how municipalities and non-profits can work together to address pressing housing needs. For Fort St. John, the $1 land transfer reflects a strong commitment to creating affordable housing opportunities while building a more inclusive and supportive community. With at least 50 new rental units planned, including a significant share priced below market, the project is expected to ease housing pressures in the downtown area and provide long-term benefits to vulnerable residents.
The collaboration between the City of Fort St. John and FSJACL highlights a growing trend across Canada, where municipalities are leveraging public assets to promote housing affordability. By focusing on both social impact and practical housing solutions, the city hopes to set an example for other communities facing similar challenges. If successful, the project could pave the way for more non-profit partnerships in the future, ensuring that affordable housing remains a central part of urban development in Fort St. John.
