Regional Affordable Housing Strategy shows nearly 9000 households spend over 30% of ...

This article discusses the Windsor-Essex County Regional Affordable Housing Strategy completed by SHS Consulting for Essex County Council in Hamilton, Ontario.

Essex County Council received a comprehensive regional affordable housing strategy revealing significant housing challenges in the region. The study found nearly 9,000 households spend over 30% of their income on housing, with 3,000 paying more than 50%. Over 9,800 people are on the affordable housing waitlist, and 80% of households lack income to purchase homes.

• Housing needs require 15,000 new units over the next decade, including 2,250 affordable rental units and 750 deeply affordable units
• Three strategic pillars focus on stimulating housing options, igniting a thriving housing sector, and improving access for those in greatest need
• Municipal leaders debate responsibility and funding, with some arguing housing should be federal/provincial responsibility rather than local taxpayer burden
• Strategy includes 26 recommended actions spanning planning policy, financial incentives, partnerships, and advocacy to upper government levels