Affordable Housing: Building Stability and Community in Ward 2
- Tracey Giroux
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
Housing affordability is top of mind for many people I meet in Ward 2. Families are feeling stretched thin, seniors worried about whether they can stay in their homes, and young people questioning if their future includes Strathcona County. This isn’t theory; it’s real life for so many neighbors, and it impacts our sense of security, neighborhood connection, and our ability to thrive.
As a Community Peace Officer and longtime resident, I have seen firsthand what happens when families are at risk of losing their housing. Safety, health, and well-being quickly fall through the cracks. My work in crisis intervention and community safety has shown me that affordable, stable housing is the foundation of a safe and thriving community.
My Vision for Affordable Housing
Affordable housing isn’t just a campaign slogan, it’s central to my work, values, and daily life in Ward 2. Here’s what I am committed to:
• Identifying affordable development opportunities on underused or County-owned land to make it easier to build homes for residents at all life stages.
• Supporting mixed housing models so seniors, families, and young people all have options that fit their needs and budgets.
• Offering targeted tax incentives and fee reductions to encourage developers, non-profits, and community partners to build and maintain affordable housing for everyone.
• Partnering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity to expand non-market housing and create new pathways to home ownership.
• Ensuring new developments are connected to transit, services, and amenities, so affordability never means isolation.
Real-World Collaboration
I believe real solutions happen when we build bridges between residents, governments, and local organizations. My experience as a Peace Officer has taught me that collaborative leadership and listening to our community are critical parts of the solution. That’s why I’m committed to working with council, local partners, and you; not just making promises, but delivering visible results.
What This Means For Ward 2
The housing crisis won’t be solved overnight, but with strong local leadership, we can take real steps forward. I am dedicated to working so seniors can age with dignity, families can thrive, and young people can see their futures right here in Ward 2.
Affordable housing is more than just roofs and walls, it’s about building a stronger, safer, and more connected community for all of us.
Comments