1. Co-housing in Mount Lorne
Consensus of meeting participants wanted an alternative to the institutional complexes proposed for the aging population
We wanted an alternative largely focused on aging near our present homes.
Land availability problems and no spot land transfers.
We wanted some type of cooperative land arrangement that had been included in our community plan.
We wanted a mixed community that included a number of features regarded as valued to the members.

2. What is co-housing
Cohousing is a concept that came to North America in 1988 from Denmark where it emerged over 25 years ago. It describes neighbourhoods that combine the autonomy of private dwellings with the advantages of shared resources and community living.

3. Nature of cohousing
Residents usually own their individual homes, which are clustered around a “common house” with shared amenities. These amenities may include a kitchen and dining room, children’s playroom, workshops, community gardens, guest rooms, home office support, arts and crafts area, laundry and more. Each home is self-sufficient
with a complete kitchen, but resident-cooked dinners are often available at the common house for those who wish to participate.

4. Examples of Canadian Cohousing
The Canadian Cohousing network identifies many of the Cohousing
projects across Canada. Most are located in fairly urban areas. Some of the rural settings may be of interest to the Mount Lorne initiative.
Birchwood Cohousing
At Telkwa, BC is under Development. It is proposing Number of Homes: 20 homes with a 2, sq. ft common house.
for details They propose a multi-generational community, on 10- acre woodland with sunny aspect and mountain vistas in all directions. Adjoins Tyhee Lake Provincial Park; within walking distance of Village of Telkwa; 10-minute drive to Smithers. Many outdoor recreational opportunities: world-class fly fishing; downhill, cross-country and backcountry skiing; scores of hiking trails in nearby mountains, including Babine Mountains Provincial Park. The valley hosts a rich art and music culture.  

5. Birchwood model

6. How we get started Group gathering to secure interest
Forming a society
Basic community planning process
Application for lands under policy

7. Land Policy for non-profit Societies
In 2016 YTG released a policy provides institutions and nonprofit societies with access to YTG lands

8. Features of the Policy
This policy may grant an interest in lands on a spot basis.
The land may either be leased on a long-term basis or sold, fee simple, to the society.
In cohousing projects, individual blocks may in turn be leased or strata title sold to the participants.
Does not require YTG to sell or lease the parcel of lands at market value which could means a more affordable housing for cohousing participants.

9. Policy principles PRINCIPLES
Land dispositions must comply with existing and proposed planning schemes.
Land dispositions are only authorized in an amount reasonably necessary to satisfy the purpose for which the land is needed.
Land applications in rural areas may be directed to a Development Node, to provide for the rational delivery of services and to minimize the impact on other resource users and the environment. In areas with planned development, this would include areas designated hinterland.
Land required to facilitate public recreation and multiple use of land and natural resources will normally be retained for public use rather than alienated for private use.
During the application review process, the Land Management Branch will, whenever possible, consider the principles of Integrated Resource Management (IRM) in finalizing a decision. Core IRM principles include fostering understanding, cooperation and communication with other departments, governments and agencies involved in resource management, consideration of all values and consultation before finalizing a decision.

10. Full policy