It may not seem like a huge step, but it’s hoped a decision by Belleville Council on Monday will lead to more affordable rental housing projects in the city.
Council has agreed to reduce the parking space requirements for developers, as long as units in the building will be rented at or below the market rate, as established by Hastings County, over a five-year period.
Director of Engineering and Development Stephen Ashton tells Quinte News the decision will lead to a two-fold payoff for builders.
Ashton says there is a correlation between affordable housing and parking, where a maximum number of spots need to be provided and paid for, but aren’t always used.
He adds that the issue of parking space at affordable housing properties has been going on for years in Belleville and other municipalities as well.
Mayor Mitch Panciuk added that there will be more work done on the Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan in 2020.
