Creating ‘more attainable housing options’

The Town of Stouffville is taking another step towards creating more affordable housing options.

It has launched the development of a new Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan (CIP), a key initiative under its Housing Strategy and Housing Action Plan.

“Creating more attainable housing options in our community is one of Council’s top priorities,” Mayor Iain Lovatt says. “This new CIP gives us the tools to work with our partners, developers, non-profits and local organizations to build a more inclusive and accessible Stouffville where everyone can find a place to call home.”

The CIP is supported by $8 million in funding from the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund and will explore targeted incentives and programs designed to encourage the development of both market-rate and affordable housing throughout the community.

It will identify a variety of financial and non-financial tools designed to support diverse housing options, including ‘missing middle’ and gentle infill housing in established neighbourhoods. The plan will be developed in three stages, with completion expected late this year.

As part of the project launch, the Town will host a public open house on Monday, Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. at Nineteen on the Park at 19 Civic Ave. Community members are invited to attend to learn more about the CIP, ask questions and provide input on the proposed direction. A Background and Options Report will be released before the event to support community review and discussion.

The Town encourages participation from residents, developers, non-profit agencies and community groups throughout the CIP process. “Feedback gathered will help shape a plan that reflects the needs and aspirations of the growing Stouffville community,” it reports. Visit townofws.ca/affordablehousing to learn more and to register for the open house.