An Ontario town is returning $1.28 million it received in housing funds from the federal government after rejecting plans that would allow for more density – a crucial part of the agreement.
On Wednesday, Housing Minister Sean Fraser announced that the federal government was ending its deal with the Town of Oakville, Ont., after the town council and Mayor Rob Burton voted against a proposal that would permit denser housing types, like fourplexes and student accommodations, to be constructed.
On Thursday, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office informed Global News that the town would indeed be returning the funds.
“The Town is returning the money and is awaiting instructions from CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) on how to proceed,” Jorge Gomez from the mayor’s office stated.
Gomez mentioned that the total amount being returned was “approximately $1.28 million.”
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As part of the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund, Oakville received $1.28 million, which was intended to be part of a larger total of $25 million over time. This funding followed an agreement made by town council on Jan. 22 to make zoning changes in compliance with federal guidelines.
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However, earlier this month, town council voted 14-1 against that proposal.
The council also turned down another motion allowing four dwelling units on residential properties throughout town. Making zoning adjustments needed for what some experts describe as “gentle density” is essential for receiving funds under the Housing Accelerator Fund.
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On Wednesday, Fraser shared on social media platform X, “In order to receive funding, our partners need to implement the measures they agreed to.”
“After voting down ambitious housing reforms, the Town of Oakville is in breach of its agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund and won’t receive federal funding,” he added.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is a $4-billion program designed for municipalities that align their zoning laws with federal standards and objectives.
Since its launch in May last year, cities have been eager to take advantage of incentives linked to zoning changes. The HAF aims not only to “build more homes faster,” but also diversify housing options being developed in Canada.
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For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. The proposal stated, “In support of the Housing Accelerator Fund Application, as advised by Minister Fraser with due regard for heritage conservation and infrastructure capacity and servicing, that staff be directed to bring forward a zoning by-law amendment permitting four storeys within 800 metres of Sheridan College for Council’s consideration within 90 days of passing this resolution.”
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However, earlier this month, town council voted 14-1 against that proposal.
The council also turned down another motion allowing four dwelling units on residential properties throughout town. Making zoning adjustments needed for what some experts describe as “gentle density” is essential for receiving funds under the Housing Accelerator Fund.
Story continues below
On Wednesday, Fraser shared on social media platform X, “In order to receive funding, our partners need to implement the measures they agreed to.”
“After voting down ambitious housing reforms, the Town of Oakville is in breach of its agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund and won’t receive federal funding,” he added.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is a $4-billion program designed for municipalities that align their zoning laws with federal standards and objectives.
Since its launch in May last year, cities have been eager to take advantage of incentives linked to zoning changes. The HAF aims not only to “build more homes faster,” but also diversify housing options being developed in Canada.
More on Politics
& amp ; copy 2024 Global News , a division of Corus Entertainment Inc. Source link
