The Waterhen Lake First Nation is in the process of building about $1 million in new housing.

A total of seven multi and one-bedroom units are being constructed on the reserve.

Waterhen Councillor Blaine Fiddler says housing is an ongoing need.

“We have a high number of people that are looking for housing, we have a big wait list,” he says.

Fiddler adds the new units offer a more modern architectural design.

“You will notice on most reserves the houses are square block style. We wanted something a little bit different with more architectural design. We sought out an architect and got some plans drawn up so we’re not doing the same thing every year.”

The multi-room dwellings are being built thanks to roughly $780,000 in Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation funding.

The four multi-room dwellings are slated for families while the three single-bedroom units are targeted to go to single people and elders.

Fiddler says plans are also in the works to build another three single-bedroom units.

Construction is expected to be completed sometime this fall.

There are currently about 900 people living on the Waterhen Lake First Nation reserve.

(PHOTO: New housing construction on Waterhen Lake First Nation. Photo courtesy of Blaine Fiddler, WLFN Events/Announcements Facebook Page)