Affordable housing is expected to be one of the biggest issues in the upcoming Provincial Election, as is affordability in general as people struggle to make ends meet.
Like other local municipalities, Rideau Lakes Township is taking steps to address the need for more affordable housing units in their jurisdiction.
Mayor Arie Hoogenboom tells Lake 88 it’s a priority for his council.
Mayors Shawn Pankow from Smiths Falls and John Fenik from Perth both told Lake 88 that provincial regulations need to change to make things easier.
That includes the stipulation in inclusionary zoning that affordable units be near public transit. That’s impossible when there is no public transit to speak of.
We asked Ontario’s Minister of Rural Affairs and Housing, Steve Clark about that very issue, and he admits that the province has a lot of work to.
Clark is in favour of housing multiple units on one property. That’s where separate units like granny suites and tiny homes can be put on one lot. Its being explored an implemented in some local communities. Clark spoke about the possibility, and says the government is helping to move things along.
Tay Valley Township has been working to get tiny homes approved on lots as a way to help create new affordable housing units. They’re not alone as many other local municipalities are looking at the possibilities as well.
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