An Ontario town is giving back $1.28 million in housing funds it got from the federal government after rejecting plans to increase housing 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., following a vote by the town council and Mayor Rob Burton against a motion that would permit more dense housing options like fourplexes and student accommodations.
On Thursday, a representative from the mayor’s office informed that the town would return 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 in the mayor’s office said.
Gomez noted that the amount being returned was “approximately $1.28 million.”
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Under the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund, Oakville received $1.28 million as part of a larger total of $25 million planned for distribution over time. This came after the town council agreed on January 22 to modify zoning laws to meet federal standards.
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However, earlier this month, the town council voted 14-1 against this motion.
The council also turned down another motion allowing four dwelling units on residential properties throughout town. Making zoning changes that promote what some experts describe as “gentle density” is part of receiving funding under the Housing Accelerator Fund.
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On Wednesday, Fraser posted 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 initiative designed for municipalities that align their zoning regulations with federal expectations and objectives.
Since launching in May last year, cities have been eager to access incentives linked to zoning updates. The HAF aims not just to “build more homes faster,” but also diversify Canada’s housing landscape.
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Get breaking Canada news delivered to your inbox as it happens so you won’t miss a trending story. The motion 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, the town council voted 14-1 against this motion.
The council also turned down another motion allowing four dwelling units on residential properties throughout town. Making zoning changes that promote what some experts describe as “gentle density” is part of receiving funding under the Housing Accelerator Fund.
Story continues below
On Wednesday, Fraser posted 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 initiative designed for municipalities that align their zoning regulations with federal expectations and objectives.
Since launching in May last year, cities have been eager to access incentives linked to zoning updates. The HAF aims not just to “build more homes faster,” but also diversify Canada’s housing landscape.
& copy 2024 , a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
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