Ontario Construction News staff writer
Kitchener has successfully completed or substantially completed all 44 actions outlined in its Housing for All strategy, according to a report presented to the planning and strategic initiatives committee on Monday.
Completed actions include:
- provision of city-owned land to local non-profits for affordable housing developments across three sites
- collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and non-profit housing operators to create 184 supportive housing units, with an additional 128 units under development
- waiving of development fees for non-profit organizations, alongside a $5.2 million grant fund for non-market housing initiatives
- implementation of new policies, such as inclusionary zoning and a rental replacement bylaw, to support affordable housing projects
- creation of a Lived Expertise Working Group to ensure that individuals with personal experiences of housing insecurity help shape housing policy
“I’m so pleased by the work that has been accomplished by our community that was originally recommended by our Housing for All Strategy steering committee,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “These 44 actions are crucial steps forward in our long journey, and I look forward to continuing this partnership with staff, council, and our community partners.”
The strategy was designed to increase housing options across the entire spectrum, from supportive housing to market home ownership. The strategy’s 44 actions were organized into seven priority areas, including different aspects of housing development and support:
- human rights-based approach to housing
- commitment to lived experience collaboration
- ending homelessness
- securing community, affordable rental, and ownership housing
- advocacy
- aligning policies and city land use for affordable housing
- data collection and establishing monitoring systems
“The approach taken with the Housing for All strategy is truly innovative for an area municipality. We’ve effectively utilized our policy tools, resources, and staff to make real progress, and we will continue to advocate for Kitchener’s housing needs,” said Planning and Strategic Initiatives Chair and Ward 6 Councillor Paul Singh.
For more details on the Housing for All strategy, click the link.