Around two dozen new housing units will be built at Elsipogtog First Nation over the next five years, thanks to a partnership with the Government of New Brunswick.
The province says the arrangement includes plans for 20 community-owned units and five individual-owned units per year.
“We are proud to partner with Elsipogtog First Nation on this promising initiative,” said Arlene Dunn New Brunswick’s aboriginal affairs minister.
“Elsipogtog’s leadership is committed to improving housing options for the community, and I want to applaud them for their dedication and determination to do so.”
Officials say Elsipogtog will receive a percentage of the net profits earned from authorized video lottery terminals (VLTs) and a portion of the profits will go toward the housing project.
The remaining balance would remain in the community. These provisions are retroactive to Jan. 1.
Officials say the partnership aims to provide a stable source of funding to help enhance living conditions at Elsipogtog and ensure that VLT profits directly benefit residents.
“Although Elsipogtog First Nation maintains its autonomous governance and regulatory structures, a partnership with the provincial government, based on a nation-to-nation understanding, can and will prove beneficial to all New Brunswickers,” said Chief Arren Sock.