Significant Developments in the Delivery of Housing Services

12/18/2024

The Housing Unit of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community of three significant developments in the delivery of Housing services, all passed by consensus at the duly convened Council meeting on Monday, December 16th.

Firstly, the MCK will finance the construction of the Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation On-Reserve program Section 95 Project #9 through the CMHC Direct Lending Program or another lender, if required, in the amount of $491,422. As a result, four to six new rental units can be built.

Secondly, to meet current market price increases in the cost of construction, inflation, and other factors, the MCK approved an increase to the On-Reserve Loan Guarantee limit to $400,000 CAD. This will enable more individuals to access the financing they need to secure their homes from the Caisse Populaire Kahnawake. A 5% downpayment and meeting specific criteria are still required by the Caisse.

Finally, the Council of Chiefs approved authorizing the financial subcommittee of the Client Based Services Committee (CBSC) the ability to approve write-offs for mortgage accounts that are in good standing, following a reconciliation of accounts for elders and special cases. The decision will be based on criteria from the enforcement policy, which includes the ability to pay, financial impacts, and special situations. The total amount for possible write-offs will not exceed $500K.

"The MCK is committed to improving the quality of life for our community members by ensuring that our people have access to affordable, safe, and sustainable housing,” said Housing Portfolio Lead Ratsénhaienhs Ryan Montour. “These new developments represent a significant step forward in securing the future of our people and are a reflection of our continued dedication to building a strong, self-sufficient community."

"By increasing the loan guarantee limit and providing affordable housing units, we are addressing the immediate needs of our community while laying the groundwork for long-term growth,” said Executive Operations Officer Alan-John Rice. “Our team remains focused on meeting the community’s housing needs and creating opportunities for homeownership, with financial solutions tailored to the unique needs of Kahnawa’kehró:non."