New leader for Land Trust

Sep 8, 2020 | 11:29 AM

There has been a change of leadership for a non-profit society working to develop more affordable housing in the Vernon area.

Kari Gares is the new chairperson of the Vernon and District Community Land Trust, taking over the role from Jane Lister who has been involved for 13 years.

Lister said it has been a great honour to have served as chair.

“I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments in providing affordable housing in the North Okanagan for individuals and families with low to moderate incomes. I am confident in our future and in Kari’s leadership as we continue to grow and expand our impact.”

Gares has been involved in the housing sector through her mortgage broker business, dealing both with CMHC and BC Housing for over 20 years.

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She is a current Vernon city councillor and sits on the affordable housing commission, Okanagan Regional Library Board, regional growth and the finance committee.

Gares, a former president of the North Okanagan Minor Lacrosse Association, is committed to family and youth within our community.

“I am looking forward to being the chair of the Land Trust and working with our committed board of directors and passionate executive director, Cindy Masters” Gares said.

“Having just broken ground on the newest Land Trust Project on Pleasant Valley Road, this is a significant moment in the history of our organization. I am deeply grateful to Jane for her leadership, vision, dedication and passion,” Masters said. “Equally, I am excited for what the future holds under Kari’s direction. Kari brings a wealth of success and strategic vision to our organization, which will be critical to our ability to meet the growing demand for affordable housing in our communities.”

The Land Trust works with provincial and municipal governments, BC Housing, community agencies, local developers and business to develop a permanent inventory of housing for the “forgotten population”, which includes minimum wage and entry level working individuals and their families.

You can find out more at www.communitylandtrust.ca

by Pete McIntyre

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