The Town of Saugeen Shores continues to take important steps towards addressing housing affordability with a significant increase in its annual contribution to the Municipal Housing Allowance Program administered by Bruce County. As part of the 2025 Business Plan, Council has approved an increase in funding from $150,000 to $225,000 annually, extending through 2033.
This marks the third consecutive year of investment in the program. In 2024, the Town doubled its contribution from $75,000 to $150,000, and the latest increase further strengthens support for residents in need. The increased funding will extend the program’s support from 20 to 30 households funded by Saugeen Shores, with an additional 5 households benefiting from County funding, ensuring vital financial assistance reaches more families in the community.
“This increase in funding reflects our commitment to ensuring that Saugeen Shores is a place where anyone can find a place to live,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “We are thrilled to be partners in the Housing Allowance Program as part of our ongoing commitment to addressing the housing needs of our growing community.”
The Housing Allowance Subsidy is just one of several initiatives underway. The Town is also advancing:
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10th Concession Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): A partnership between the Town, Wilson Developments and Habitat for Humanity, will add a new entry-level townhouse development on land currently owned by the Town.
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Housing Accelerator Fund Projects: Including the implementation of a Community Planning Permit System, standardized designs for Additional Residential Units, and implementation of appropriate financial tools to supporting affordability.
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Bluewater Lands: A Request for Proposals for affordable housing development is expected later this quarter to support affordable housing and neighbourhood parkland development.
More information on these projects can be found in the Saugeen Shores 2025 Business Plan under Development Services Major Initiatives (pg. 54) and Planning & Development Division Highlights (pg. 62).These efforts align with the Saugeen Shores Strategic Plan’s goal of diversifying and growing the Town’s housing stock, reinforcing the Town’s proactive approach to sustainable growth and housing accessibility.
