Letter from Mayor Sid Tobias to TAPS regarding Christie Point Rent Increases

June 19, 2024

Executive Director VIA EMAIL: dking@tapsbc.ca Together Against Poverty Society (TAPS) 828 View Street Victoria, BC V8W 1K2

Dear Douglas King,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you as the Mayor of View Royal to express my heartfelt gratitude for the crucial work that the Together Against Poverty Society (TAPS) does in advocating for affordable housing and supporting those in need within our community. Your unwavering dedication and advocacy have been instrumental in protecting the rights and well-being of many residents, and for that, we are deeply thankful.

I am reaching out to seek your support for the residents of Christie Point, who are currently facing significant challenges due to exceptional rent increases imposed by the property owner. These increases are intended to recover capital expenditures and will be reviewed by the Residential Tenancy Branch. The residents, many of whom are on fixed incomes and are vulnerable, are extremely concerned about the financial burden these rent hikes will place on them, potentially threatening their ability to remain in their homes.

View Royal Council heard from over 40 residents who showed up at our Council Meeting held on June 18th, 2024. Each resident had a powerful personal story that merits support and questions our collective efforts to truly deal with poverty and affordability including legislation that allows owner to collect profit but not fund required repairs.

Navigating the complexities of tenancy laws and the adjudication process can be particularly overwhelming for residents without access to legal support. Therefore, we are advocating for legal assistance from TAPS to help these residents effectively present their case before the Residential Tenancy Branch. Your expertise and support could make a substantial difference in ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are protected during this critical time.

The legal advocacy and representation provided by TAPS would be invaluable in supporting the residents of Christie Point in challenging these rent increases. Your assistance would not only address the immediate concern of potential displacement but also reinforce the broader effort to maintain affordable housing within our community.

Thank you once again for the remarkable work that TAPS does. I am hopeful that with your support, we can protect the interests of the residents of Christie Point and uphold the principles of affordable and equitable housing for all.

Please do not hesitate to contact me directly at 250-216-5339 or mayortobias@viewroyal.ca to discuss this matter further. We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with TAPS in supporting our community.

Sincerely,

Sid Tobias Mayor