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Over 1,000 tenants residing in Ocean Breeze Village, a closely-knit housing complex in Dartmouth, N.S., are facing an uncertain future as they received notices indicating that some of the 397 units are scheduled for demolition. These tenants, many of whom have lived there for years, are anxious and upset about the news. The real estate group behind the redevelopment, Basin Heights Community Partnership LP, claims that long-term lease tenants will be offered comparable apartments within the complex at the same rents. However, residents are skeptical about finding vacant units and worry about potential future relocations amid the city's high rents and low vacancy rates.

The redevelopment plans, led by Basin Heights Community Partnership LP, include a phased approach with construction set to begin in 2024. The first phase will impact 83 units across 14 buildings, with subsequent phases likely involving various types of housing, such as townhouses and high-rises. The tenants are given two options: relocate to a different unit within the community with covered moving expenses or leave and receive compensation. The real estate group emphasizes its commitment to fair treatment and working with existing long-term residents, but concerns remain regarding affordable housing availability.

Local representatives, including the NDP MLA for the area, Susan Leblanc, express worry over the displacement of residents, particularly considering the lack of affordable housing options. Leblanc stresses the need for government intervention to ensure affordable housing units remain available throughout the redevelopment process. Despite the reassurances from the redevelopment group, tenants like Tia Cook and Celine Porcheron are concerned about the potential impact on their community and the lack of preparedness for the changes ahead.

Read the full article on: CBC