An Owen Sound community group is holding a ‘community conversation’ meeting to discuss local housing solutions.
Rebound Owen Sound says on its Facebook page, they are a group that strives to expand interest in local politics and accountability with the aim of building a welcoming community.
Chair Jan Chamberlain says when the held meetings last fall, ahead of the most recent municipal election to talk about local issues, housing was identified as key.
“There is a real interest, from our public in helping make things better around the housing,” says Chamberlain.
The event is called “Our Community Working Together For Housing Solutions” and will feature a panel of local advocates including Carol Merton, Marilyn Stretchers, Liz Buckton and Francesca Dobbyn.
It’s set to be held at the Harmony Centre on 9th Street East in Owen Sound on Thursday, March 23rd from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Donations to Safe N’ Sound are welcome.
Housing is not administered by the City, but by Grey County.
Chamberlain says Grey County Director of Housing Anne Marie Shaw will be taking part and introducing the speakers, who will each offer thoughts on what could be done.
She notes community organizations are working together to help tackle the issue, exlaining, “There are a lot of things happening, but not everybody knows about all of the coordinated things.”
Chamberlain says, “We’re not the only municipality in this situation, most municipalities are having this struggle and it has to do with Air BnB, it has to do with people using their housing for investment properties and, you know, raising the rent– it’s very complex.”
“What we hope,” says Chamberlain, “Out of this meeting is that we will give people some ideas of some things they can do to make a difference.” She compares some of those things to the changes some of us make to mitigate climate change.
The panel discussion will be followed by an open mic those in attendance to ask questions or give suggestions.
Chamberlain would like to see people who have lived experience with housing insecurity, those who heed help and those who can or would like to provide help. She says the space in the Harmony Centre is large, so all are welcome.
The meeting will be posted on You Tube afterwards.