The Behchokǫ̀ Royal Canadian Mounted Police detachment is calling on local residents to help provide rental housing for incoming officers. This effort is part of a broader attempt to address staffing needs in the community, as the police force works to fill vacancies across the region.
Property owners in the community who have available rental units are encouraged to contact the local detachment by calling 867-392-1111. Those who reach out can inquire about potential lease terms and the support available for property owners.
Securing stable housing is a persistent challenge in Behchokǫ̀, which is the largest Tłıchǫ community in Canada with a population of approximately 1,746 to 2,100 people. Located 110 kilometres northwest of Yellowknife on Great Slave Lake, the community has faced a long-term housing crisis driven by aging infrastructure and limited funding. A 2024 report indicated that 36 per cent of homes in the area are considered inadequate for living, and local leadership has estimated that hundreds of millions of dollars would be required to repair the existing housing stock.
This request for housing comes while the Northwest Territories division of the police force works to reduce its vacancy rates. While the vacancy rate in the territory has improved from 28 per cent in early 2025 to 21 per cent in early 2026, the region still faces one of the highest vacancy rates in the country. Nationally, the police force has been navigating a shortfall of approximately 3,400 officers as of the fall of 2025. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police often relies on renting or owning properties in remote areas to ensure officers have a place to live while serving their communities.
The Tłıchǫ Government, which is headquartered in the community, has highlighted the importance of addressing housing challenges to support local services. By reaching out to the community for assistance, the police detachment aims to secure the necessary housing to support a consistent officer presence in the area.
