Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Ottawa says it is significantly increasing its investment in affordable and supportive housing. On Wednesday (Nov. 20), the city’s planning and housing committee approved a $22.9 million investment as part of its 2025 draft budget, which is almost $5 million more than what was initially proposed. This increase in funding comes from additional revenue from the Vacant Unit Tax program.
The city says the goal is to grow the annual investment in affordable housing each year, reaching between $138.3 million and $162.7 million over the next six years. This increase in funding will help to create at least 500 new supportive and affordable housing units per year. The city also hopes to leverage federal and provincial investments to support the projects.
The draft budget also includes $3 million to start an Official Plan update in 2025, $7.5 million to buy and implement new land management software, and $900,000 to finish Ottawa’s new zoning bylaw.
The full city council will consider the draft budget on Dec. 11. Other items from today’s meeting will rise to council next Wednesday (Nov. 28).
