New Society Set Up to Build Workforce Housing in West Kootenay

Published: 10:00 am Wednesday, February 4, 2026

In a move designed to tackle the pressing shortage of workforce housing in the West Kootenay region, a new non-profit organization named the Kootenay Workforce Housing Society was officially announced on February 3, 2026. Established by Community Futures Central Kootenay, this organization aims to construct affordable housing solutions that can directly impact workforce retention and stimulate economic growth in local communities.

Addressing Workforce Housing Needs

The formation of the Kootenay Workforce Housing Society arises amidst growing concerns about housing affordability in the region. Andrea Wilkey, the executive director of Community Futures and newly appointed secretary-treasurer of the society, highlighted the critical goal of the organization: “We see ourselves as being that connector between local government and the private sector wanting to get housing developed, but needing a non-profit entity to partner with to move projects forward.”

The society will primarily concentrate on filling the gap in affordable units catering to households earning approximately $70,000 annually—a demographic often overlooked in conventional housing markets. Wilkey describes this gap as the “top end of the affordable housing range and the lower end of market housing.”

The Founding Board and Upcoming Symposium

The society is overseen by a committed board, including President Robert Bleier, Vice-President Terry Bambrick, and Community Futures representative Am Naqvi. To further their mission, the society will host a symposium on April 30, inviting non-profit housing providers, building professionals, and community leaders to engage in meaningful discussions about housing and development.

Focused Efforts in Central Kootenay

The Kootenay Workforce Housing Society will prioritize initiatives within the Regional District of Central Kootenay, with Castlegar identified as the first target for development. A 2024 city report reveals that Castlegar requires 708 housing units by this year alone, with projections suggesting the need for over 2,000 more units by 2041. The report significantly notes that the scarcity of affordable housing is a barrier preventing local businesses from attracting and retaining a skilled workforce.

The City of Castlegar has shown support by approving a memorandum of understanding to reserve municipally owned land at 1375 Columbia Ave. for six months, allowing the society to assess the site’s suitability for workforce housing. Although this step is promising, Wilkey cautions that construction may take several years to begin, stating, “We’re really thinking long term with this. Our goal would be 30 years from now to have, let’s say, five or six housing projects around Central Kootenay.”

Strategic Partnerships for Success

The society’s capacity for effective project execution is bolstered by its partnership with Kalesnikoff, a leading construction management firm. Kalesnikoff recently inaugurated a $30-million mass timber facility in Castlegar, where they specialize in modular housing construction. This partnership could prove vital, particularly in securing federal funding, given that modular construction projects tend to be completed more swiftly.

Wilkey anticipates that the collaboration will also generate local employment and bolster community engagement in housing projects. “The great thing about partnering with a modular housing provider is their projects do tend to go up more quickly,” she noted, emphasizing the efficiency advantages this partnership could offer.

Inspiration from Successful Models

The Kootenay Workforce Housing Society draws inspiration from existing successful projects in nearby communities, particularly a notable initiative in Nelson. The Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce is establishing a 55-unit, six-storey development in the Railtown district, designed to provide market-rental units specifically for local employers and their workforce.

While the Kootenay Workforce Housing Society aims to replicate such successful concepts, it is unlikely to develop housing within Nelson itself, given that the area is already well-served by local non-profits such as Nelson CARES and SHARE Nelson. Wilkey stressed, “There’s lots of housing societies around the region and especially social service-focused non-profits that have done the heavy lifting in terms of creating housing in our region, and so we’re looking to complement that.”

Conclusion

The establishment of the Kootenay Workforce Housing Society signifies a proactive approach to addressing the housing crisis affecting the West Kootenay region. With its focus on collaboration, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, this organization stands poised to make a meaningful impact in building affordable housing that caters to the needs of the workforce. As the society embarks on this ambitious mission, it holds the potential to reshape the economic landscape of the region for generations to come.