The Yukon government is currently reassessing its land lottery system following a discovery by the territory’s ombudsman that individuals have been manipulating the system to increase their chances of securing a building lot in Whitehorse.
Ombudsman Jason Pedlar revealed that this issue is widely known, even among territorial officials who seemed incapable of enforcing the regulations effectively. Periodically, the territorial government conducts lotteries for new building lots for residents interested in constructing a home. According to territorial laws, only individuals with intentions to build and reside on a lot are eligible to participate in the lottery for land purchase.
Pedlar pointed out that individuals have been circumventing the rules by utilizing proxies to enter land lotteries on their behalf, thereby enhancing their likelihood of success. This practice, as Pedlar describes it, is fairly common, with people enlisting friends, family, or employees to enter lotteries on their behalf. However, this goes against the territory’s Lands Act regulations.
Pedlar emphasized that there was a standard procedure for lot applications that was not being adhered to. He noted that individuals felt compelled to participate in this practice if they desired to build on land.
Despite being aware of this issue for several years, Pedlar could not address it as ombudsman until a formal complaint was lodged. Last year, a resident lodged a complaint regarding the use of proxies, prompting Pedlar to investigate.
In his report issued this month, Pedlar put forward several recommendations to enhance the fairness of the land lottery system. These suggestions include implementing better vetting and screening processes for applicants to verify their eligibility, or amending territorial legislation to prohibit entering a land lottery through a proxy.
The report also proposes that no land lotteries take place until the government can demonstrate it has taken appropriate steps to fulfill its legal obligations concerning the administration of lotteries under the Lands Regulations and the legislation’s intent.
The Minister of Energy, Mines, and Resources, responsible for land lotteries, acknowledged the challenges highlighted in the ombudsman’s findings. Minister Ted Laking stated that the government accepts the report’s recommendations and is currently deliberating on the next steps to ensure the land lottery process is fair, transparent, and responsive to the needs of Yukon residents.