National Housing Day

Thursday, 22 November 2018 at 07:26

It's National Housing Day in Canada and Oxford County is making affordable and accessible housing a priority.

OXFORD COUNTY - Oxford County is making a accessible and affordable housing a priority.

They are talking about some of their initiatives today because it is National Housing Day in Canada. Oxford County has addressed the housing needs of the community in their Community Sustainability Plan.

They have already started work on several initiatives including the 10 year shelter plan, draft zero poverty plan and adoption of the housing first policy that outlines how proceeds from sales of surplus County-owned property will be reinvested to meet the growing demand for housing.

The County has invested $7.7 million in federal and provincial funding and $4.3 million in County funding to create 386 affordable housing units over the past four years. Since Council’s adoption of a mandate in 2017, all new affordable housing developments will achieve Passive House standards or energy targets, resulting in buildings that require little energy to heat or cool. T

The CMHC considers a 3% vacancy rate to be a balanced rental market. Last year, the three main hubs of Oxford, Woodstock, Ingersoll and Tillsonburg were all below the 3% vacancy rate. The CMHC identifies housing as affordable if it costs less than 30% of a household’s before-tax income. For a one bedroom apartment to be considered affordable at the region’s average market rent of $908 per month, a household needs to earn approximately $36,000 per year.

Director of Human Services Paul Beaton says housing is always a priority.

“The importance of safe, affordable housing for all cannot be overstated. Research has shown access to housing that is safe and affordable is a key way to support individuals and families out of poverty.

On National Housing Day and every day, Oxford County is committed to addressing the housing needs of our communities through key investments and innovative projects like the upcoming Blossom Park multi-residential development. With housing noted in multiple Council-approved plans, it is an area of focus as we work towards a vibrant, prosperous and responsible Oxford for all.”