Multi-million dollar housing complex in Watson Lake, Yukon, still vacant months
21 applicants are currently on a waiting list for units in the building
It’s been a few months since a 10-unit housing complex was built in Watson Lake, Yukon, and according to officials it’s still sitting vacant.
The $13-million building is located at 807 Lakeview Avenue was built as part of the Yukon government’s “Housing First” initiative which aims to provide permanent, low-barrier housing for people at risk of homelessness. It was completed in March.
However, the territory says it’s had trouble finding anyone to operate the facility.
“We did go through a number of procurement processes looking for an operator and no one has yet come forward,” said Anne Aram, director of homelessness and housing services with the territory’s Department of Health and Social Services.
In a 2023 news release, the government said that the Watson Lake Housing First complex would be operated by the Department of Health and Social Services and other key partners once complete.
Aram said now that the building is finally completed another community needs assessment is necessary to fully understand how exactly the building might best be used in the community.
“If indeed the community is determining we want a building with 24/7 oversight, an operator would then have to have a significant staff team and some experience in operating 24/7 facilities,” Aram said.
“If indeed this is not determined to not need a 24/7 oversight and we’re looking at other supports, that will be determined when we have those conversations.”
The 8,628-square-foot building has two barrier-free bachelor units, six regular bachelor units, and two one-bedroom units. Building features include a reception area, a separate programming space, a multi-purpose room with a full kitchen, and barrier-free public/staff washrooms.
As of this month, 21 people have applied for a unit in the complex and are currently on the wait list.
Aram said the Yukon Government is working with the Town of Watson Lake and the Liard First Nation on the next steps forward.
In the meantime, the building will remain vacant until a plan, or an operator, is secured.
Chris Irvin is the former mayor of Watson Lake, and was part of the planning process when the project first began. He said he’s frustrated to see that the building is still vacant.
“How can you spend this kind of money … just to have it sit empty?” Irvin said. “I understand staffing is hard, just like it is anywhere in the Yukon, but you have to get creative. Figure out a way that this is going to suit us and work with the community.”
Irvin said community members have tossed around the idea of the complex being used as the town’s “much-needed’ extended care facility.
“It’s built in the perfect location close to downtown,” he explained to CBC News. “It’s a rancher style. It’s got staff accommodations. It’s accessible by ambulance. It’s accessible by seniors. It would be perfect.”
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