Neil Schmidt's final announcement as mayor of Winkler was a good one.

Yesterday he announced the city has been awarded a $1.5 million affordable housing initiative.


Schmidt says in total the 24 units will have a price tag of just over $3.1 million, half of which is paid for by the provincial and federal governments.


The operating expenses each year will be covered by rental income.


The units will be rented at a cost of $725 a month, which includes utilities, taxes, interest, and infrastructure costs.


Schmidt adds 12 of the units will qualify for assisted rental for those who make less than $29 000 per year.


Schmidt is very excited that this project is finally coming and construction will begin in the southwest corner of the city immediately.