I am on the verge of retirement. As I transition into this new phase of life, I will be relying on a low, fixed income and will be unable to keep up with the soaring market rents in the region of Esquimalt, BC. This is not only my reality; it is the reality of countless others in our community.

Two apartment buildings, located on Nelson Street in Esquimalt, are slated for demolition. This will displace 62 families, many of whom are currently subsisting on lower incomes. The new proposed single tower will be unaffordable to many of the current tenants. While a renoviction policy is in place by the Township of Esquimalt, it only represents a short term solution for us.

The practice of renoviction, where tenants are evicted so that landlords can renovate and then increase rents, is causing a displacement crisis in Esquimalt. This is resulting in low-income individuals, like myself, being pushed out of our homes. The community we love and contribute to is becoming increasingly unaffordable for us.

According to Canada's Rental Housing Index, Esquimalt is classified as in "critical condition", with 28% of renters spending more than half of their income on housing. This clearly indicates that the current situation is unsustainable and urgent steps need to be taken to address this crisis.

We must urge our local government to put policies in place that prevent renovictions and provide housing security for low-income residents in Esquimalt, BC. After all, every individual deserves a secure, affordable place to call home.

Let's stand united for our neighbors, our friends, our community. Your signature can make a noticeable difference. Advocate for affordable housing by signing this petition now.