Aboyne, Ont. - The County of Wellington Housing Services Division is hosting a free Affordable Housing Development Workshop Series this November at the Wellington County Museum and Archives, Aboyne Hall, 0536 Wellington Road 18, Fergus.
The need to increase the number and range of affordable housing options was a primary objective emerging from the 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan community consultations. New approaches coordinated with housing partners are needed to help support the creation of truly affordable housing options.
“Creating more affordable housing takes collaboration and community focused planning,” said County of Wellington Warden Chris White. “These workshops can help turn ideas into housing projects that meet the needs of our communities by bringing people together and sharing practical knowledge.”
Designed for local municipalities, elected officials, housing providers and community agencies working in housing and homelessness, the workshops will be facilitated by Tim Welch Consulting Inc. and will provide practical guidance on developing new affordable housing.
The series includes five workshops:
Friday, November 13
- Goal Setting and Pre-construction Activities | 9:00 am to 12:30 pm
Explore project goals, affordability, government funding, land searches, partnerships, development teams and considerations for existing housing providers. - Funding and Financing | 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm
Learn about capital and operating funding, government programmes, construction and mortgage financing, budgets, cash flow, and alternative financing options.
Monday, November 23
- Assembling a Design and Construction Team | 9:00 am to 12:30 pm
Explore design and construction approaches, selecting architects and contractors, unit and common-space design, accessibility and construction cash flow. - Planning Approvals and Affordable Housing | 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm
Learn about municipal planning approvals, required studies, environmental considerations, community engagement, and navigating the approvals process.
Monday, November 30
- Preparing for Management and Operations | 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm
Explore property management, operating budgets, tenant selection, and support services.
“This workshop series will help participants better understand the process and provide practical information they can apply as they move potential housing projects forward,” commented Dave Purdy, Director of Housing Services.
Each workshop will include presentations, discussions, and a break. Refreshments and a light lunch will be provided.
Register at www.wellington.ca/HousingNews.
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Media Contact:
Dave Purdy, Director of Housing Services
519.837.2600 x 4040
Davep@wellington.ca