Title
PRESENTATION BY REPRESENTATIVES OF THE COUNTY OF SIMCOE REGARDING THE COUNTY OF SIMCOE'S 10-YEAR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION STRATEGY
Ms. Terry Talon, General Manager of Social and Community Services and Ms. Cathy Kytayko, Director of Social Housing of the County of Simcoe provided a presentation on the County of Simcoe's 10-Year Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Strategy. Ms. Talon provided details regarding the rationale for the Strategy, the methodology and public consultation undertaken, and the partners involved in the development of the Strategy. She noted that Provincial legislation requires a development of a strategy. Ms. Talon indicated that a Working Group, with representatives (either an elected official or senior staff) from each municipality would be established to develop and lead the implementation plan
Ms. Kytayko detailed the content of the Strategy including: addressing homelessness, improvement for health and wellness, increased civic engagement and social inclusion, community vitality, safety and security, and economic prosperity. She outlined the key issues indicating the need for affordable housing. Ms. Kytayko indicated that a minimum target of 2,685 units is required to address affordable housing needs. She outlined the number of units required by community located within the County of Simcoe's geographic boundaries as well as sub-targets for units based on income levels. Ms. Kytayko reviewed the importance of the various organizations working together in housing our future. In closing, Ms. Talon advised of the timelines associated with implementation of the strategy.
Members of Council asked a number of questions related to the presentation and received responses from the presenters and City staff.