The city of St. Catharines says it is moving forward with a housing action plan to address affordable housing needs in the city.
Council received a detailed report with 41 potential policy tools and actions the City can use to support affordable housing.
The report comes after Mayor Sendzik made a commitment to address housing needs at his state of the city address in January and Council supported the need for a comprehensive report and action plan.
Sendzik says housing is one of the most pressing issues facing the city and it is critical that they take a leadership role and do their part to support more quality, affordable housing.
The staff report is the first step in the creation of a Housing Action Plan for St. Catharines.
Potential policy tools and options range from official plan amendments and zoning changes to development charges, expedited development applications and grants through the community improvement plan (CIP).
As outlined in the report, the next steps will include forming a working group to review the 41 action items and continue stakeholder consultations.
Staff will report back to Council in the fall on policy amendments and new procedures to support the creation of more affordable housing in the city.