Town working with Habitat for Humanity to increase affordable housing in Saugeen Shores

The Town of Saugeen Shores has taken another step forward in its mission to increase the supply of affordable housing in the community. Last night, Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Town of Saugeen Shores, Habitat for Humanity and Wilson Developments. 

The MOU provides a framework to investigate and work towards an agreement to build up to 30 townhouse units on town-owned land south of Concession Rd 10. Of the units, up to five would be transferred to Habitat for Humanity to be sold to qualifying applicants through their attainable and affordable homeownership program, and two would be transferred to the municipality to support affordable housing goals. 

“I’m thrilled to see this partnership moving forward,” said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. “Habitat for Humanity’s program brings strength, stability and independence through affordable home-ownership – and that is one of the forms of housing that what we want for members of the Saugeen Shores community.” 

The MOU outlines each party’s expected role in a future agreement, with the Town of Saugeen Shores providing the land, water and sewer connections, in-kind support and services, and fee reductions, and Wilson Developments constructing the dwellings. 

“This opportunity is a result of the Town’s actions to make it easier to build affordable housing,” said Mayor Charbonneau. “Council and staff have been working hard to put the right tools into our toolbox to support initiatives like this.” 

Council approved the Affordable Housing on Town-owned Lands Policy last March and this will be the first time the Policy will be put into action. Beyond this Policy, the Town has made strides to reduce barriers to building by amending the Zoning By-law, establishing a framework to allow financial incentives for affordable developments, and continuing to implement other initiatives, like its partnership with Bruce County to deliver the Housing Allowance Subsidy.  

Further Affordable Housing initiatives planned for 2025 can be reviewed in the Planning and Development Division Highlights on page 62 of the 2025 Saugeen Shores Business Plan.