A task force in Northern Bruce Peninsula is discussing issues and opportunities regarding attainable housing.
Comprised of residents and stakeholders, the Northern Bruce Peninsula Attainable Housing Task Force, according to the municipality in a release, will lay the groundwork that will identify community needs and ideas for improving access to attainable housing in the area.
Currently the group is being organized to support the municipality in working to develop and act on an attainable housing plan.
Community Services Manager with the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula Ryan Deska says attainable housing is not a new issue in the community as it is something many residents have been pushing for sometime, “Certainly now more than ever, attainable housing is, given the recent boom in the realestate market, its becoming increasingly important.”
Deska notes it is his goal not only look at affordable housing but attainable housing.
He says they will be looking at a variety of different homes for people to either buy, rent or a combination of the two in local developments.
When meeting, some of the aims for the group include:
-research and analysis, conducting housing surveys and focus groups on housing needs
-advocacy, voicing needs for housing in the community and developing ongoing relationships with businesses, volunteers, landowners, and the under-housed
-organization and project management, develop a timeline for each project and supporting the municipality in coordinating implementation
The release notes public consultations will also be held by using a variety of methods while abiding by pandemic restrictions.
“Consultations will look to understand local housing issues and opportunities,” says the release. “Consultations will also investigate how other municipalities and communities across Ontario and Canada are addressing attainable housing issues.”
During the consultation process, the task force will also look to collaborate with organizations like the Grey Bruce Health Unit, County of Bruce, Parks Canada and local businesses.
The group, consisting of nine members aims to bring those with expertise to the table including those with legal experience, and an understanding of planning, housing needs, architecture, medical work, and other subjects.