The City of Rossland has won the Collaboration with External Organizations Award from the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) for the Rossland Yards project.
The Rossland Yards project was completed last fall and is a multi-use building that now houses Rossland City Council on the main floor and 37 rental suites on the upper three floors.
The development was designed to provide affordable workforce housing units in the community.
The $16.4 million completed project was a joint effort by the City of Rossland, the Lower Columbia Affordable Housing Society, BC Housing, Columbia Basin Trust, and the Green Municipal Fund delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, with funding from the federal government.
A media release from CAMA stated that the City secured the award because of how the project tackled the challenges of housing affordability and civic infrastructure while utilizing municipal land to fulfil municipal and affordable housing policy objectives.
“CAMA is pleased to recognize Rossland for the municipal excellence and collaboration demonstrated by this project,” said CAMA President Tony Kulbisky.
“This innovative effort not only resulted in a new City Hall but also provided affordable workforce housing for the community.”
CAMA stated that the project serves as a model for future initiatives across the country, adding that the project adheres to the highest standards of the BC Energy Step Code, ensuring sustainability and energy efficiency.
The project saw the creation of a joint committee to ensure effective planning, engagement, design approvals, and construction.
The committee was guided by a charter and collaborated closely with the LCAHS Board, senior staff from BC Housing, and City of Rossland staff and Council to make informed recommendations on major project components.
Additionally, the project aligned with the City’s Official Community Plan and Council Strategic Initiatives by emphasizing key priorities, including growth management, environmental stewardship, community services, and housing.
It specifically addresses objectives outlined in the Rossland Midtown Transition Area Neighbourhood Plan.
“Strategically integrating the new City Hall with affordable housing showcases a creative approach to civic planning, maximizing the use of available space,” said CAO Bryan Teasdale.
“This integration signals a shift from standalone civic infrastructure projects to a more interconnected and community-oriented development model.”
A total of 45 submissions were received for this year’s awards program. More information on the City of Rossland’s award and a full list of other 2024 CAMA Award winners can be found here.
Something going on in your part of the Kootenays you think people should know about? Send us a news tip by emailing news@mykootenaynow.com.
