The golden shovels have hit the ground and construction on the Bonnylodge expansion project is underway at last. Congratulations to the Bonnyville seniors and everyone who helped make this much-needed project a reality.
Now maybe it's time to turn our attention to other housing needs in Bonnyville.
It's a well-published fact that the oil and gas industry will continue to boom in Bonnyville, with forecasters estimating thousands of new jobs created in the industry, which will draw thousands of new residents to the area. But where are they going to live?
Bonnyville is facing significant and worrying housing shortage.
Not only will these high-paying oilfield jobs bring people into the area, but the service sector will also continue to expand to support it. The housing that is available in the area is practically unattainable to those working in the service industry.
With the improvements to seniors' housing taken care of, the community needs to take a serious look at affordable, attainable housing for those in this area who don't make oilfield salaries.
So while acknowledging the hard work and effort that went into attaining this seniors housing expansion is essential, seniors aren't the only ones in Bonnyville who need help with housing.
Here's hoping attainable housing for everyone becomes a priority.
