WHEREAS, access to safe, affordable and adequate housing promotes overall health and wellbeing, increases resident safety and creates a more liveable community;
AND WHEREAS, housing options and supply are needed at all income levels in an inclusive community;
AND WHEREAS, housing is considered affordable when housing costs do not exceed 30% of a household’s before-tax income;
AND WHEREAS, the population in Mississippi Mills is projected to increase 60% by 2038;
AND WHEREAS, increasing the supply could lead to rent reductions, and greater opportunities to free up entry level rental units, making housing available for those at the lowest income levels and those at risk of homelessness;
AND WHEREAS, the Provincial Policy Statement now requires planning authorities to allow an additional residential unit within the dwelling and with an accessory structure, for a total of three (3) dwelling unites per parcel;
AND WHEREAS, the Town of Perth has implemented a successful Additional Residential Unit Grant Program as part of an affordable housing strategy;
THEREFORE, be it resolved that Committee of the Whole direct staff to develop an Additional Residential Unit Grant pilot program to facilitate the construction of additional dwelling units or additional dwellings for homeowners in Mississippi Mills;
AND THAT, the Additional Residential Unit Grant pilot program be brought forward to 2022 Budget discussions.