A proposal to build an 88-unit housing project in Belleville is being recommended to Hastings County council for approval under a provincial program.
At its virtual meeting on Wednesday, the Community and Human Resources Committee decided to recommend that Aldersgate Homes Inc be awarded the funding under the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative.
This is $940,500 through the provincial government, with additional funding bring the total to $990,000.
Committee member, Councillor Chris Malette called it a “good news story” and pointed out Aldersgate has been active in the city for decades.
“Multi-residential apartment building consisting of 88 rental units, and of that 88 units, 50 are affordable units, of which five are designated for persons with disabilities and 14 under OHPI program.”
The three-storey low-rise building will be a mix of 68 one-bedroom suites, and 20 two-bedroom suites.
Malette added, “This is another good news piece for sure because Aldersgate has been, for those who aren’t familiar, has been present in our community for a couple of decades or more , mostly known off Avondale Road as a seniors’ accommodation facility.
“We cant underscore enough the fact demand is greatest in all of our coverage area and here in the city of Belleville. This is just an example of great stuff along the way.”
Quinte West Councillor Terry Cassidy noted that they (Aldersgate) “have great management and take really good care of people living independently.”
The staff report indicates Aldersgate’s proposal outlines a strategy that maximizes the allocated OPHI funding and stacks it with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s co-investment funding and seeks expansion opportunities within the existing Rent Geared-to-Income program to increase the amount of affordable units within the project. In addition, Aldersgate will seek support from the City of Belleville through the new Community Improvement Plan, to reduce building permit fees, developments fees and property taxes for the project. All of these funding programs, combined with a mix of affordable and market rent units, make for a diverse and sustainable affordable housing project.
Aldersgate Homes Inc. is a charitable not-for-profit housing provider in Belleville already operating an 87-unit apartment building, of which 30 are geared to income.
The recommendation will go to Hastíngs County Council for final decision later this month.
