Community Building:
Investing in our communities:
Since Gord got elected in his first term in 2015, he has worked relentlessly to build thriving, inclusive communities in Courtenay-Alberni. Here are some highlights of what Gord has achieved as part of the NDP team:
Delivering concrete action on housing. Gord grew up in co-op housing and was a constant advocate in Ottawa for increasing Canada’s supply of non-market housing. Gord and the NDP have fought to get more affordable housing built and provide relief for renters. This included:
- Secured the extension of the Rapid Housing Initiative and $8.3 billion in funding to help Indigenous people find safe, affordable housing.
- Forced the government to focus the Rental Construction Financing Initiative on affordable units.
- Got a $500 top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit.
- Helped communities and First Nations in Courtenay-Alberni access federal funding for housing projects. Since 2016, over $87 million in federal funding has flowed into the riding for housing compared to $9.7 million for the decade before Gord’s election.
Securing investment in community infrastructure. Coming from municipal politics, Gord has always fought for communities in Courtenay-Alberni to receive their fair share of federal funding. Since 2016, our communities have received more than $162.2 million in infrastructure investment compared to $16.5 million over the previous 10 years with Conservative MPs representing the riding. This increased investment has resulted in job creation and property tax relief for residents.
Bolstering arts and culture. Courtenay-Alberni is the best place to live in Canada and Gord has worked to make it even better by helping to secure investments in community spaces like the Hornby Arts Centre, the Clayoquot Sound Theatre, Parksville Outdoor Theatre, and Amphitrite House.
Gord’s job is not done. He continues to work hard every day to ensure Courtenay-Alberni remains a great place to live, work, and play, including:
- Advocate for more funding for non-market housing.
- Push for the reinstatement of the Surf Guard Program.
For more information on Gord’s record, visit openparliament.ca, an independent website that helps you “Keep tabs on Parliament”.