The Town of Collingwood has put cash on the table in an effort to get more local rental units.
With a lack of rentals in the local market, and high average house prices in the area, the housing crisis is burning strong in Collingwood, so council and staff are working on ideas to increase the inventory.
Dubbed the "rapid accessory dwelling unit deployment program," the town is offering grants of $5,628.62 to the first 20 people who successfully get a building permit and zoning certificate to add an apartment onto their home. The catch is that the apartment must be rented year-round for five years (no short-term rentals).
There's also another $5,000 grant available for homeowners who agree to participate in the County of Simcoe's second-suites program. The county program provides a forgivable loan up to $30,000 to homeowners who add an apartment and rent it out at an affordable rate for 15 years (also no short-term rentals).
Mayor Yvonne Hamlin said the town's accessory dwelling unit deployment program is a "neighbours-helping-neighbours approach."
"We're calling on empty nesters, seniors, new homeowners – or anyone who is over-housed –to consider how that extra space might help folks in our community who are struggling to afford a roof over their head," said Hamlin in a news release.
Council has been working through the rapid deployment plan since September with staff, approving the details and budget in February.
For more about the program and what is required of homeowners wishing to apply for the grants, visit the town's website here, or email [email protected].
