HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-02-011
Clarington Task Force on Affordable Housing
If this information is required in an alternative format, please contact the Accessibility
Coordinator at 905-623-3379 extension 2131.
Agenda
Date: Thursday February 1, 2024
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: In person:
Meeting Room 1C, Municipal Administrative Centre, 40 Temperance St.,
Bowmanville*
Virtual:
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* Use the main doors to the Municipal Admin. Centre located on the north side of the building
(top of the ramp)
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. Land Acknowledgement Statement - “The Municipality of Clarington is situated
within the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas and Chippewas of the
Anishinabeg, known today as the Williams Treaties First Nations. Our work on
these lands acknowledges their resilience and their longstanding contributions to
the area now known as the Municipality of Clarington.”
3. Declaration of Interest
4. Approval of Minutes of June 14, 2023 (Attachment 1)
2
5. Approval of comments to Community Planning Division on North Village
Secondary Plan (Attachment 2)
6. Business Arising from Previous Meeting
a. Housing Accelerator Fund Application
b. Review of Terms of Reference – Sections 4.2 and 6.1, 6.6 (Attachment 3)
7. Communications
a. Durham Region COW Presentation – Attachment 4
b. Expanded As of Right Housing – Attachment 5
c. Resources for Housing Accelerator Fund Applicants – Attachment 6
d. Kingston Council OK’s Housing Initiatives (Article)
8. Other Business
a. Durham County Seniors Lodge Redevelopment
b. Announcements
9. Date of Next Meeting
10. Adjournment
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
- 1 -
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility.
Co-ordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131
Minutes of the Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing Meeting held in person
at 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville on June 14, 2023, at 7:00 PM.
Members Present: Councillor Woo, Wendy Partner, Hawa Mire, Mary Taylor,
Paul Wirch, Debra Rose, Janice Conroy,
Regrets: Sally Barrie, Ron Hooper, Nakul Roy, Alan Robins,
Councillor Rang, Councillor Anderson,
Staff Present: Morgan Jones, Principal Planner, Planning & Infrastructure
Services. Hebah Masood, Staff Liaison, Planning &
Infrastructure Services
1 Opening
Wendy Partner welcomed everyone and Committee members and staff made self-
introductions.
2 Land Acknowledgement Statement
Wendy Partner read the Land Acknowledgement statement and followed up with a
description of what the statement means.
3 Business arising - Housing Accelerator Fund Application
3.1 Hebah Masood read Justin Maclean’s update to the taskforce: Justin is currently
working with the Region of Durham to prepare for a potential submission to the
new Housing Accelerator Fund. It is a $4 billion fund created by the Government of
Canada, administered through the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation
(CMHC). The primary objective of the program is to create more housing supply,
with an expected goal of 100,000 housing unit permits being issues (that would not
have occurred without the HAF).
At this point the application window has not opened are details are not totally clear,
but staff are working to determine which type of projects might fit the criteria,
including those related to affordable housing.
Justin will present to this group at our next meeting once the process is further
along as it is expected that any potential application will include an affordable
housing element.
3.2 No members had any comments or questions on the update.
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
- 2 -
4 Business Arising – Review of the Terms of Reference
4.1 Regarding Section 4.1 of the ToR:
W. Partner raised concern about non-residents being on the committee,
particularly developers.
P. Wirch raised the value of diversity on the committee, assuming council still vets
who joins the committee.
W. Partner stated developers have been invited in the past to speak, but not as
committee members.
H Mire Stated there’s value in having this committee made of members who are
residents. There’s a difference in having developers come speak versus getting a
vote.
W. Partner noted that developers’ definition of affordable housing is going to be
very different from the committee’.
D. Rose stated we should define affordable housing for Clarington and how to
achieve that. It would be valuable to have the developers’ input.
W. Partner acknowledged this but stated developer’s don’t have to sit on the
committee.
M. Jones suggested looking at other advisory committee’s requirements, and that
members likely have to be residents.
M. Jones and H. Masood to verify if a non-resident would be allowed to sit.
Councillor Woo to look at resume of a current member that may work with a
developer and is not a resident.
W. Partner asked if a shorter version of the test that can be taken for potential
candidates.
M. Jones and H. Masood looked into the matter following the meeting. At the time
of appointments, there was no requirement for committee members to be
residents. However it is possible to update the ToR to state members are required
to be residents. The Municipality’s boards and committees do have this
requirement. However, even if the committee’s ToR is updated, it will not remove
existing committee members that are non-residents. Removal can only be done
through Council or if non-resident committee members resign of their own accord.
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
- 3 -
4.2 Regarding Section 4.3 of the ToR:
The committee came to a consensus to keep this. The term will conclude at the
end of 2026. This is when emails will go out to reapply.
4.3 Regarding Section 4.6.4 of the ToR:
M. Taylor asked how often the committee would meet with other taskforces
W. Partner stated the committee has never met with the other taskforces
referenced. Either the Municipality of Clarington’s CAO reaches out or A. Robbins
coordinates
Councillor Woo shared a Durham Region powerpoint regarding targets put
together by A. Robbins
Brief discussion on this powerpoint.
H. Masood has circulated the powerpoint slides.
M. Jones mentioned the taskforces referenced still exist, however it is unclear if
the CAO is still coordinating between the committee and the referenced taskforces.
W. Partner mentioned Councillor Woo should ask
Councillor Woo stated it is also an option to designate a person to coordinate such
as A. Robbins.
The committee came to a consensus to designate a person to coordinate.
4.4 Regarding Section 6.1 of the ToR:
W. Partner stated she thought quarterly was decided. Previously the committee
met monthly except for the summer. However nothing came out of it and many
members were frustrated.
P. Wirch stated quarterly didn’t seem often enough
W. Partner mentioned there was also some frustration from committee members
that there wasn’t a consistent staff person
M. Jones stated H. Masood and Amanda or himself will always be here moving
forward.
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
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Thursday evenings were posed as an option because R. Hooper cannot make
Wednesdays.
M. Taylor stated she will not be able to make Thursdays due to a prior commitment
however she encouraged the committee to pick Thursdays if they work for
everyone else.
The committee came to a consensus to meet bi-monthly on Thursdays at 7pm.
4.5 Regarding Section 8 of the ToR:
D. Rose asked whether the committee should have an annual report or just report
when they have an item?
W. Partner asked Councillor Woo what council would want?
Councillor Woo stated in his opinion the committee should report at least once a
year.
P. Wirch asked whether it should be more flexible – i.e. just the committee
reporting to council in person and giving an update as opposed to something
written?
Councillor Woo stated it does not have to be written. Or it could be a PowerPoint
W. Partner liked this idea and asked Councillor Woo if Council reviews
suggestions for initiatives and activities from the committee whether they would be
acted upon?
Councillor Woo stated it would depend on what the committee is reporting on and
how Council can act. He stated it would be good to suggest to council and if it can’t
be done by council then it would be good to work with A. Robbins to see what can
be done at the Regional level.
H Mire stated if the committee continues to report on movement over the years
and set targets that are measurable it might give a push. If the committee says
over the course of 4 years that there’s been no movement then it would reflect
poorly.
Councillor Woo directed towards W. Partner that it was not good that previous
members were frustrated by the lack of movement.
W. Partner stated there was a point many members thought the committee should
dissolve.
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
- 5 -
D. Rose stated they would think council would want to see change.
W. Partner yes and in a timely fashion
The committee came to a consensus to present to council annually.
4.6 Regarding Section 2 of the ToR:
P. Wirch asked the other members whether for the first bullet should it say
“advocacy” rather than “support.”
W. Partner stated the committee wants to support council in their decisions
P. Wirch stated it is possible to make it more direct
W. Partner stated the more direct the better.
P. Wirch stated for the fourth bullet they were not sure what the committee would
be doing to foster a greater understanding? He was trying to think what actions
each of these bullets would lead to and it wasn’t clear to him for this one. He also
stated he wasn’t sure what providing opportunities meant in the fifth bullet.
W. Partner stated that it is referring to when the committee previously had booths
at festivals and raising awareness about seniors housing and rentals because they
were very limited. She stated R. Hooper and herself would go to Beaverton,
Coburg and other places where different types of housing were built to see how
something similar could be done in Clarington. She stated there will be
opportunities like this that arise if any committee members would like to join.
P. Wirch stated perhaps the fifth bullet should say “address barriers to affordable
housing”
W. Partner stated perhaps “to remove barriers to accessible, affordable housing.”
J Conroy stated the simpler language the better.
Councillor Woo stated he liked those changes.
The Committee came to consensus on the above changes.
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
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5. Other Items – North Village Secondary Plan
P. Wirch stated that given that there’s a window until July 18, the committee should
not mis the opportunity to comment on it
W. Partner agreed the committee should comment on it
P. Wirch stated the committee can comment on both the policy and whether new
developments are meeting affordable housing standards. He also stated there is a
meeting regarding the secondary plan June 27th and comments can be submitted
until July 18th.
P. Wirch sharing screen with North Village Secondary Plan
P. Wirch asked whether the committee should compile comments at this meeting
or via email.
W. Partner stated comments could be emailed to H. Masood who can then
consolidate and circulate. H. Masood to circulate relevant information on North
Village Secondary Plan.
D. Rose suggested before comments are formally sent that they are circulated to
the committee.
Discussion among committee members on definitions of affordable, ADUs and lack
of diversity of housing options.
W. Partner noted that by July 4th all of comments on the North Village Secondary
Plan will be submitted to H. Masood to be compiled, circulated, and then
submitted.
M. Jones will explore the possibility of us being circulated on other commenting
opportunities.
H. Masood compiled the comments following the meeting and submitted to the
Community Planning Department on July 18th.
Adjournment: 9:00 p.m.
**Subject to Advisory Committee Approval**
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
Committee Meeting Minutes
June 14, 2023
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Next Meeting: September 14, 2023 – 7:00 pm
Following this meeting the Terms of Reference were updated based on the discussion
that took place.
Following the meeting it was highlighted by the Municipal Legislative Services
Department that Section 4.2 should not have the language from the template and the
committee should decide if there are specific qualifications they’d like to include.
Following this meeting M. Taylor formally resigned from her position on the committee
as she cannot make Thursday meetings.
Following this meeting H. Masood compiled the committee’s comments on the North
Village Secondary Plan, which are to be submitted to the Community Planning
Department by July 18th. They are subject to approval of the task force at the
September 14th meeting.
Section Comments
This looks to be a great plan for a new community, all the right buzzwords included, affordability, sustainability, community, parkland and connectivity. In some sections of the document there are solid
plans to meet these goals.
Overall, the draft policy demonstrates a commitment to promoting affordable housing and addresses key aspects such as housing variety, integration, accessibility, and collaboration. These positives lay
the foundation for creating a more inclusive and sustainable community within the North Village Secondary Plan.
There is reference in the plan to support ageing in place with a range of accessible housing and the suggestion of partnering with Long Term Care provider for dedicated seniors housing. A defined Long
Term Care home is provincially dictated by the province for funding. Private groups (e.g. Bowmanville Creek, Seasons) usually have levels of care - independent, supportive and assisted. Stating “Ageing in
place” is one thing but to have all the pieces aligned for a workable model is a challenge. I would ask for a more specific plan with a desire for a plan that is practical, helpful and fits with an understanding
of the needs of the people.
What is the definition of affordable? Please confirm that the definition of affordable used in the secondary plan is the same definition of affordable used in the Clarington Official Plan. With 100 units
proposed for this development there would be 330 “affordable” units. What % of the 330 will be rentals, and what % of those will be RGI? What proportion will be ownership / rental?
The draft policy could benefit from specifying the types of affordable housing units to be provided (e.g., rental, homeownership) and the income levels targeted (e.g., low-income, moderate-income).
Clear definitions and criteria will help ensure that the affordable housing initiatives effectively serve the intended population. Furthermore, The policy sets a specific target of achieving 30% affordable
housing for all new developments in the Urban Areas of the Municipality of Clarington. While this target is commendable, it would be helpful to clarify whether this percentage applies to the total
number of housing units or the total floor area of new development. Also, the policy should specify the types of affordable housing units to be provided (e.g., rental, homeownership) and the income
levels targeted (e.g., low-income, moderate-income). In addition to this, providing specific metrics for measuring progress toward the target would enhance the clarity and effectiveness of the policy.
6 What are the plans to meet the goals in section 6? In particular for affordable rentals and senior housing which is the focus of our committee.
6.1.7 Are these funds to be provided for affordable housing? Describe what a “contribution 17 agreement” is.
The accessory dwelling units referenced in 6.2.7 are a great way to allow adult children who cannot afford market rent, to live independently. Building ADU ready homes is forward thinking. However,
these are probably not a practical solution for many seniors and others with accessibility issues.
what % of this plan is “purpose built rentals” 4 seniors and will those be affordable as defined by the current CMHC formula? Note: CMHC formula is 30% of household pre tax income
highlights the importance of providing a variety of housing forms, sizes, and tenures. This is a crucial aspect of affordable housing policy as it caters to different household sizes and income levels.
However, the policy could benefit from further guidance on the specific types of housing forms and sizes that should be prioritized to ensure the needs of the community are met effectively.
How will these be prioritized and will any of these be RGI units?
emphasizes the importance of integrating affordable housing within neighborhoods and combining it with market housing developments. However, it would be helpful to provide further guidance on
how this integration will be achieved in practice. Specific strategies, such as mixed-income housing requirements or the Municipality’s affordable housing toolkit, could be included to promote the
integration of affordable housing units.
How will the developer be encouraged to partner with a long-term care provider to incorporate dedicated seniors housing into the neighbourhood?
“Aging in Place” Accessible Housing- what % will this be? Is this a mandatory stipulation for the developer or just a gentle ask with the hope that they will comply?
6.2.4
rightly encourages the provision of unit sizes suitable for larger households in the apartment and multi-unit buildings. However, it would be advantageous to provide further guidance on the minimum
and maximum size of units to ensure they are adequate and proportionate to the needs of residents. Flexibility in unit design, accommodating diverse household configurations and modular construction
methods, can also be explored.
Who decides on whether land or fees are provided to the Municipality to facilitate affordable housing – the developer or the Municipality?
Will the provision of land or funds be considered to be all or part of the developer’s contribution towards affordable housing? If so, how are the land/funds calculated to be equivalent to 30% of the
developable area.
If these lands/funds are only part of the developer’s contribution towards affordable housing, what percentage do they represent?
Will this $1000 per unit be put into a fund specifically for “affordable housing” to be used when Habitat for Humanity and/or Durham Housing Authority decide to build in Clarington?
outline the requirement for land or financial contributions from the Landowners Group for the development of affordable, public, or non-profit housing. It is crucial to define the specific criteria, valuation
methodologies, and mechanisms for these contributions and determining the values of land and funds, ensuring transparency and fairness in the process for negotiations between the municipality &
landowners group. Additionally, provisions for monitoring the implementation and enforcement of these contributions should be included to enable the Municipality to evaluate the effectiveness of the
policy, track achievements, and identify areas for improvement.
Is this the land that is to be given to the Municipality to facilitate affordable housing?
What percentage of the developable area does this represent?
Will this land be located in an area that will be serviced in Phase One of the neighbourhood?
Will the Municipality request that the developer prepare a draft design for the land that is conveyed so that it is clear what form of development the land is able to accommodate?
Will the developer be required to design Phase One of the neighbourhood to provide future connections to this land so that it does not become and isolated island?
Is there an opportunity for the same amount of land (1.5 Ha) to be divided into two or more parts and distributed throughout Phase One so that the affordable housing is more evenly integrated
throughout the neighbourhood (see policies 6.2.2 and 6.2.12)?
Will this land be sold to the Not for Profits building affordable housing or is any “developer” eligible for this funding “tap in” encouraging the Developer to partner with a “For Profit” long term care
provider OR will the Ministry of Health become involved with this step?
outline the requirement for land or financial contributions from the Landowners Group for the development of affordable, public, or non-profit housing. It is crucial to define the specific criteria, valuation
methodologies, and mechanisms for these contributions and determining the values of land and funds, ensuring transparency and fairness in the process for negotiations between the municipality &
landowners group. Additionally, provisions for monitoring the implementation and enforcement of these contributions should be included to enable the Municipality to evaluate the effectiveness of the
policy, track achievements, and identify areas for improvement.
Are these funds to be provided for affordable housing?
Why does it appear the contribution of finds varies per development?
outline the requirement for land or financial contributions from the Landowners Group for the development of affordable, public, or non-profit housing. It is crucial to define the specific
criteria, valuation methodologies, and mechanisms for these contributions and determining the values of land and funds, ensuring transparency and fairness in the process for
negotiations between the municipality & landowners group. Additionally, provisions for monitoring the implementation and enforcement of these contributions should be included to
enable the Municipality to evaluate the effectiveness of the policy, track achievements, and identify areas for improvement.
While realizing the wheels of government move slowly, will the municipality have these collaborations solidified to build while the neighbourhood is still “new”? It would be beneficial to outline specific
mechanisms for engagement, such as the establishment of partnerships, joint ventures, or formal agreements, to ensure effective collaboration.
Is this subsidy coming only from the Landowners Group or will any be coming from the Durham Region NFP Housing Funding?
emphasizes integrating affordable housing with market housing. To enhance clarity, the policy should provide further guidance on the specific strategies and requirements for achieving this integration.
This could include mechanisms such as mixed-income housing requirements, design guidelines that promote integration, or incentives for developers to incorporate affordable units within market
housing developments guided by Municipality’s affordable housing toolkit.
How successful is this type of integration been in other Municipalities/Regions?
Submitted on July 18, 2023 **Subject to CTFAH Approval**
6.2.11
6.2.12
6.2.8
6.2.9
6.2.10
Clarington Task Force for Affordable Housing
North Village Secondary Plan – Draft Policies
6.2.3
2.1
General Comments
6.2.1
6.2.2
As of September 11, 2023
If this information is required in an alternate format, please contact the Accessibility
Coordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131.
Clarington Task Force on
Affordable Housing
Terms of Reference
1. Purpose and Mandate
The Clarington Task Force on Affordable Housing is a volunteer advisory
Committee established by the Municipality of Clarington Council in accordance
with these Terms of Reference.
2. Following an Official Visit and Roundtable Discussion with
the Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell on January
29, 2018, a Task Force on Affordable Housing was formed.
Scope of Activities
The Clarington Task Force on Affordable Housing shall:
• Assist with the advocacy, creation and maintenance of affordable housing
with particular emphasis on affordable housing for seniors;
• Provide advice, comments and recommendations to Council on issues
related to affordable housing, affordable rental housing for both low and
moderately-low-income households and seniors housing needs;
• Build relationships between Municipal staff, Regional staff, developers and
the community;
• Foster a greater understanding of the need and commitment to address the
issue of providing suitable and affordable housing for Clarington residents;
As of September 11, 2023
• Provide an opportunity to meet with various partners to raise awareness
and remove barriers to accessible, affordable housing; and
• Consult with other groups and/or Task Forces on issues of mutual interest.
3. Definitions
Not applicable.
4. Task Force Members
4.1. Composition
The Committee shall be comprised of the following members appointed by
Council:
• Ten voting members; and
• 1 voting Member of Council.
Subcommittees or working groups may be formed by the Task Force to complete
tasks and address specific issues but must report through the Clarington Task
Force on Affordable Housing. The Task Force shall establish a clearly defined,
specific work plan for the subcommittee or working group, which shall not be the
core function of the Committee. The subcommittee or working group may draw
upon members from the Task Force as well as non-members as deemed
necessary. The chairperson of the subcommittee and/or working group shall be a
voting member of the Task Force.
4.2. Qualifications
Members should be citizens of the Municipality of Clarington and represent a
broad range of interests in the Community.
4.3. Length of Term
Membership shall run concurrent with the term of Council or until their successor
is appointed.
4.4. Remuneration
Members serve on a voluntary basis and do not receive any form of
remuneration.
As of September 11, 2023
4.5. Election of Members
The Task Force shall select a Chair and a Vice-Chair from among its voting
membership. Members of Council and Municipal Staff sitting on the Task Force
are not eligible to assume the position of Chair or Vice-Chair, except as Election
Chair, as outlined in this Terms of Reference.
The Chair and Vice-Chair are elected at the first meeting of every other calendar
year, for a four-year term.
Before the election of the Chair, either a Council member, Clarington Staff, or the
former Chair shall be the Election Chair during the election portion of the
meeting. Once the Chair is elected, they may take the Chair and conduct the
other elections and meeting. See Appendix A for the Election Process.
If any of the elected positions become vacant, another election will be held for
that position at the next Task Force meeting. If the Vice-Chair becomes vacant,
the Chair may appoint a member of the Task Force as Interim Vice-Chair until a
new Vice-Chair can be elected. The elections, when required, will be held at the
next meeting of the Task Force in accordance with the process set out in
Appendix A.
4.6. Staff Resources
The municipal department responsible for the Task Force shall provide clerical,
administrative, and technical assistance, as deemed appropriate by the
Department Head, to ensure the proper functioning of the Task Force, which will
include:
• preparing and forwarding meeting materials to members;
• preparation of summary meeting minutes and Task Force correspondence
(including assistance in drafting);
• professional advice on matters within the mandate of the Task Force; and
• assisting the Task Force in participating in events and activities related to its
mandate.
Staff resources are provided only to assist the Task Force in undertaking its
mandate. Additional requests of staff, such as original research or organization
of events shall be at the discretion of the Department Head and within staff,
time, and budget constraints.
A designated Task Force member shall be the liaison between the Task Force
and the Region of Durham’s Affordable and Seniors’ Housing Inter-Disciplinary
Tactical Team.
As of September 11, 2023
5. Responsibilities and Obligations of Members
5.1. General
A member of the Task Force shall have the following duties:
• to deliberate on, and execute, the mandate of the Task Force;
• to attend meetings and work activities;
• to vote when a motion is put to a vote;
• to read, understand, and respect the Rules of Procedure, the Code of
Conduct, and any guidelines for the Task Force.
5.2. Conduct of the Task Force Members
All Task Force members shall abide by these Terms of Reference.
Amendments to the Terms of Reference may be recommended by Committee
resolution and shall be forwarded to the Municipal Clerk’s Office for review
before Council consideration.
The Chair, or a spokesperson/member appointed by the Task Force, may speak
on behalf of the Task Force to Council or the public. Other members shall not
act, or speak, on behalf of the Task Force without prior approval of the Task
Force.
The Task Force, or its members, shall not issue petitions, resolutions, or position
papers on behalf of the Task Force unless specifically authorized by Council
resolution.
The Task Force, and its members, shall not act outside of the mandate and
advisory capacity of the Task Force. Should the Task Force wish to comment
on an issue that is within the mandate of another Council Committee or Task
Force, the Chair shall consult with the responsible Staff Liaison(s) and the Chair
of the other Committee or Task Force.
The Task Force, by resolution, shall have the right to censure members that, in
the Task Force’s opinion, are misrepresenting the Task Force and may request
Council to remove that person from the Task Force.
5.3. Absences
This section does not apply to a member who is absent for 20 consecutive
weeks or less if the absence is a result of the member’s pregnancy, the birth of
the member’s child or the adoption of a child by the member.
As of September 11, 2023
Members unable to attend a Task Force meeting shall notify the staff liaison at
least 24 hours in advance.
Members unable to attend a meeting cannot send an alternate.
The Chair shall advise the Municipal Clerk, in writing, of any member who is
absent for three consecutive meetings without being authorized to do so by a
resolution of the Task Force and may request Council to remove the member
from the Task Force.
5.4. Resignations
Members who wish to resign shall notify the Chair, and the Municipal Clerk, in
writing, of the resignation. The Chair shall notify, either by email or on an
agenda, the other members of the resignation but shall not give details of the
resignation other than timing.
Council may appoint new members to the Task Force to fill any vacancies in
accordance with Clarington’s “Appointment to Boards and Committees Policy”.
5.5. Chair and Vice-Chair
It shall be the duty of the Chair:
• to provide leadership to the Task Force;
• to ensure that the Task Force carries out its mandate;
• to act as the primary liaison between the Task Force, Clarington Staff and
Members of the Public;
• to set the meeting dates and agenda items, with input from the Members
and Staff Liaison;
• to provide information to Members on any matter relating to the business of
the Task Force;
• to open the meeting by taking the Chair and calling the members to order;
• to announce the business before the Task Force and the order in which it is
to be acted upon;
• to receive and submit, in the proper manner, all motions presented by the
Members;
• to enforce the Rules of Procedure; and
• to adjourn the meeting when the business is concluded.
As of September 11, 2023
The Chair may eject any Task Force member from a meeting if, in the opinion of
the Chair, that person is being disruptive or disrespectful.
If the Chair is temporarily absent or becomes vacant, the Vice-Chair will assume
the position and responsibilities of the Chair until a new Chair can be elected.
5.6. Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest may arise for Task Force members when their personal or
business interests conflict with the duties and decisions of the Task Force. The
municipal conflict of interest requirements as defined by the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.50 will apply to the Task Force. A Task Force
member must disclose any potential or perceived conflict of interest and shall
remove themselves from the meeting for the duration of the discussion and
voting (if any) with respect to that matter.
6. Meetings
6.1. Frequency and Location of Meetings
The Task Force will meet bi-monthly and a minimum of four times per year.
6.2. Quorum
Quorum shall be a simple majority of the total number of currently appointed
Task Force members (i.e., 50% plus one). If there is no quorum after 15 minutes
of the scheduled start time, the meeting shall be cancelled and/or rescheduled.
6.3. Land Acknowledgement Statement
In recognition of a necessary first step towards honouring the original occupants
of a place, and as a way to recognize the traditional First Nations, Metis and / or
Inuit territories of a place, and to commemorate Indigenous peoples' principal
kinship to the land, a Land Acknowledgement Statement shall be read in
accordance with the Land Acknowledgement Guidelines.
As of September 11, 2023
6.4. Procedures and Rules
The Task Force is subject to the Clarington Procedural By-law which governs the
proceedings of Council and its Committees and Boards, Council Code of
Conduct, and any other applicable policies and/or procedures.
6.5. Recommendations
Recommendations and decisions reached by the Task Force must be based on
consensus wherever possible. If a consensus cannot be reached and there are
different opinions on the issue, the Chair may call for a formal vote by show of
hands. Recommendations and decisions will be carried by a simple majority of
the voting members present. Each voting member of the Task Force has one
vote.
Only recommendations and decisions that appear in the Minutes of the Task
Force can be considered as officially representing the position of the Task
Force. Minutes of the Task Force shall be forwarded by the Staff liaison to the
Municipal Clerk’s Office for publication. This is done immediately after the
minutes are finalized by the Chair and they do not wait to be adopted by the
Task Force. Any changes to the minutes at the next Task Force meeting, will be
reflected in those meeting minutes and a corrected or changed version of the
previous minutes shall be provided to the Municipal Clerk’s Office for
publication.
To approve a recommendation from the Task Force, a Member of Council shall
remove it from the consent agenda and put forward a motion to approve the
recommendation within the minutes of the Task Force.
The Task Force shall not forward comments or recommendations directly to
other groups or agencies without the consent of Council.
See Appendix B for details on motions, amendments, etc.
6.6. Electronic Participation
A member of the Task Force is permitted to participate electronically in a
meeting and may be counted in determining whether, or not, a quorum of
members is present at any point in time.
A Member may also participate electronically in a meeting that is closed to the
public, if the meeting is properly held in closed session. See the Open and
Closed Meetings section of these Terms of Reference.
As of September 11, 2023
6.7. Public Participation and Delegations
All Task Force meetings are open to the public. Members of the public are not
permitted to participate in the Task Force discussions but may appear as a
delegation before the Task Force. Delegations shall be for a maximum of 10
minutes. Those wishing to appear as a delegation at a Task Force meeting must
advise the Chair, Vice-Chair, or Staff liaison a minimum of five days before the
meeting.
The Task Force, by resolution or through its Chair, may invite any individual,
interest group, agency, or Staff to appear at a meeting as a delegation or to
submit/present information that will assist the Task Force in carrying out its
mandate.
6.8. Open and Closed Meetings
All Task Force meetings must be open to the public unless discussing items
noted below. The Task Force shall provide at least one week’s notice (i.e., an
agenda) for a regular or special meeting or 24-hour notice for a rescheduled
meeting. Notice will be provided using as many means as possible, including the
municipality’s website by forwarding to the Municipal Clerk’s Office.
The following are reasons for a closed meeting of an advisory board or
committee or Task Force, in accordance with Section 239 (2), Municipal Act,
2001:
• Security or property
• Personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal and
board employees
• Proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality
or local board
• Labour relations or employee negotiations
• Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative
tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board
• Advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications
necessary for that purpose.
In accordance with Section 239 (4) of the Municipal Act, 2001, Before holding a
meeting or part of a meeting that is to be closed to the public, a municipality or
local board or committee of either of them shall state by resolution:
• The fact of the holding of the meeting; and
• The general nature of the matter to be considered at the closed meeting.
As of September 11, 2023
Where a meeting, or part of a meeting, is closed to the public, the Board shall
request those persons not specifically invited to the closed meeting to vacate the
meeting room in which the meeting is being held.
A meeting shall not be closed to the public during a vote except where the
meeting is a closed meeting permitted or required by statute, and where the
vote is for a procedural matter or for giving directions or instructions to
employees of the board or persons retained under contract with the board, or
officers, employees or agents of the Municipality.
Minutes of the closed session shall be recorded and provided to the Clerk’s
Office for distribution to Council at their next appropriate meeting.
7. Agendas and Minutes
7.1. Agendas
The Task Force shall forward all agendas to the Municipal Clerk’s Office one
week before the meeting and shall include the following:
• Date, time, location;
• Land Acknowledgement Statement;
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest;
• Presentations / Delegations
• Adoption of the Minutes;
• Items for Discussion; and
• Adjournment.
7.2. Minutes
The Task Force shall report to Council by presenting the unapproved minutes.
The draft minutes of all Task Force meetings shall be reviewed by the Staff
Liaison/Chair and forwarded to the Municipal Clerk’s Office for inclusion on the
next Council Agenda.
Minutes shall include:
• Members absent and present;
• Land Acknowledgement Statement;
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest;
• Adoption of Previous Minutes;
• Presentations / Delegations;
• Items and Recommendations Discussed and voted on;
• Date, time, and location of next meeting; and
• Adjournment.
As of September 11, 2023
8. Budget, Annual Reports and Work Plan
The Task Force shall present annually to Council on their activities of the past
year and their work plan for the upcoming year.
Any budget requests by the Task Force shall be provided to Staff in accordance
with the municipalities budget timelines.
9. Purchasing/Procurement Policy
The Task Force has no purchasing or procurement responsibilities.
10. Insurance
The Task Force members are covered through the Municipality of Clarington’s
insurance coverage for accidents and liability.
As of September 11, 2023
Appendix A
Election Process
Nominations – Accepting nominations, from the floor, for any position:
• Nominator raises their hand to indicate they are going to nominate a member.
• Does not need a seconder.
• Nominees’ names are recorded in the minutes.
• A person can nominate themselves.
• A member can be nominated for more than one position but can only hold
one position at a time.
• A member may be nominated even if they are not in attendance.
• Nominees do not have to leave the room during the vote. They can participate
in the voting.
• The Election Chair can continue presiding, even if they are one of the
nominees for the office.
• Nominations are open until the Election Chair asks for nominations and there
are no names put forth at which time the Election Chair will close
nominations.
• Nominees can remove their name at any point during the process.
Stand – As each member is nominated, the Election Chair asks the nominee if
they will have their name stand. If the member does not agree their name shall
not be included in the vote.
Voting
• If there is only one nominee, that person is appointed.
• If there is more than one nominee the Election Chair asks, for each nominee,
“All those in favour of Bob Smith for Chair, please raise their hands”. The
person with the most votes is appointed.
• If the vote is tied, and there are more than two people nominated for the
position, the person with the least votes is removed and another round of
voting with the remaining members is conducted. If a tie vote remains with
two people, and all voting members are present, the selection will be made by
picking a name out of a hat.
As of September 11, 2023
Appendix B
Motions, Amendments, etc.
1. Voting on motions and their amendments is done in this order:
• On the amendment to the amendment (the second amendment)
• On the amendment
• On the motion or the motion as amended (this must happen if approved
amendments have been added to the motion).
2. Tied Vote
If the vote is tied, the motion is lost.
3. Deciding Vote
Every member present at the meeting, when the vote is called, shall vote unless
disqualified under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act. The vote required to pass
a motion shall be a simple majority.
4. Lost Motion
A lost motion should not come up again during the same year unless at least
two-thirds of the members present to approve a motion that “the question be
reconsidered.” This motion is not debatable and calls for an immediate vote.
5. Motions
The following steps are required to introduce, deliberate, and vote on a motion:
• A member asks to speak and when their turn comes up, they make a
motion by saying “I move…”.
• Another member seconds the motion. If there is no seconder, no
discussion or vote takes place; it is not recorded in the minutes; and the
Committee moves to the next agenda item.
• The Chair should restate the motion clearly after it has been made and
seconded “It is moved and seconded that …”.
• Only one motion is addressed at a time.
• Discussion is not in order until a motion has been stated by the chair.
• Discussion follows. The Chair should not allow anyone to speak twice on a
motion until everyone has had a chance to speak once.
As of September 11, 2023
• The Chair should give up the chair when they move a motion. In this case,
the Vice-Chair or any other member may act as Chair until the motion is
voted on.
• The vote is taken, and the Chair announces the result – “The motion is
carried”, or “The motion is lost.”
6. Negative Motions
Negative Motions are not in order and should not be allowed (i.e. “That the car
not be automatic transmission” should be changed to “That the car be standard
transmission”.)
7. Amendments
Amendments or small changes to a motion may be proposed at any time during
the discussion. It cannot be contrary to the main motion. It must be relevant to
the motion and can change the motion in only one of three ways:
• By leaving out certain words
• By adding certain words
• By replacing certain words with others.
(Not more than two amendments may be made to an open motion at one time.
As soon as one amendment has been accepted or rejected another may be
proposed if it is different from the one already defeated).
If dealing with motions or amendments, always state the exact wording. The
Chair may ask the secretary to read it if the phrase is forgotten.
Adoption of an amendment does not mean adoption of the main motion. The
amendment is carried before the main motion as amended. When the “main
motion, as amended” is on the floor, the Chair will state “main motion as
amended” before the vote.
8. Withdrawal of Motions
A motion can be withdrawn with the consent of the mover. If the seconder
withdraws a new seconder will be required before the motion can be voted on.
Amendments must be withdrawn in reverse order. If the mover refuses to
withdraw, the motions must be voted on.
Housing Initiatives Across
Durham Region
Presentation to Committee of the Whole
September 13, 2023
Elaine Baxter-Trahair, Chief Administrative Officer
Stella Danos-Papaconstantinou, Commissioner, Social Services
Jason Hunt,Regional Solicitor &Director, Legal Services
durham.ca
A Vision for Housing in Durham Region
•Under the Master Housing Strategy, the Region is committed to exploring
all opportunities to support the delivery of affordable, suitable and
sustainable housing for all people in Durham
2
durham.ca 3
Community Needs
durham.ca 4
“We don’t get to approve who buys the house
across the street from us, and we don’t get to
choose our neighbours” Barbara Hall, Ontario
Human Rights Commission (OHRC)
•Planning does not include decisions about types of people
•Until 1950s, deed could restrict sale based on race or religion
•Today, planning must be practiced “in a manner that is consistent with the
Ontario Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and
Freedoms” (Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement)
•“The device of zoning by reference to the relationship of occupants rather
than the use of the building is one which is ultra vires of the municipality”
(Supreme Court of Canada)
durham.ca 5
Ontario Human Rights Code & Housing
•The Code prohibits discrimination in housing
o race, religion, sexual orientation, family status, disability or receipt of
public assistance
•Constitutional -primacy over provincial / municipal powers
•Councillors bound by the Code and can be found in violation
“Opposition to housing projects based on stereotypes or prejudice towards
the people who will live in them can be a violation of people’s rights to be
free from discrimination in housing –which means it can be against the
law.”
Ontario Human Rights Commission
durham.ca
Housing Initiatives in Durham Region
6
•Over 650 units of affordable housing projects are under development:
•In addition, the Region continues to partner and invest in existing Community Housing
stock and in transitional housing opportunities (e.g., 1635 Dundas)
•Engagement on the 2024-2034 At Home in Durham Housing Plan to commence soon
Beaverton Supportive Housing
Ritson Road School
-redevelopment of former school site (Oshawa)
Durham Region Local Housing Corporation
-redevelopment of two sites (Oshawa)
At Home Incentive Program (AHIP) sites
-two sites (Oshawa, Whitby)
-new call for applications to be released in fall 2023
Federally and Provincially funded housing projects
Project update: Beaverton Supportive Housing
durham.ca
Beaverton Supportive Housing
Current status:
•All modules have been assembled on site
•Project completion expected November-December 2023
•Contract with a 24/7 Operator is in progress
Summary of engagement:
•Regular meetings continue with the Beaverton Community Liaison Committee
o The Committee will meet with the Operator to help identify how the community can support site operations
•Meeting held on August 31, 2023, with Lakeview Manor Resident Family Council to discuss their concerns and how they can help support the project
•Working with the Community Liaison Committee, tours of the building
will take place by invitation prior to residents moving in (a virtual tour will be made available)
8
Project update: Ritson School
durham.ca
Ritson School
Current status:
•Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment is in progress
•Preliminary structural assessment is complete
o Major structural modifications and repairs are required due to the
building’s age and deterioration
•Feasibility analysis is underway, completion expected late fall 2023-early
winter 2024
Engagement plan:
•Workshops with Regional staff,community members and business owners
took place over June-August 2023
•Community Needs Assessment survey open June 14-August 15, 2023
•Opportunities for additional feedback, including Regionally-
hosted informal community conversations in fall 2023-winter 2024
10
durham.ca
Ritson School
Next steps:
•Short videos highlighting community needs to be released in fall 2023
•On-site programming to be determined
•Conceptual site master plan options to be developed
•Report to Regional Council expected in spring 2024
11
Project update: Durham Region Local Housing
Corporation (DRLHC) Sites
durham.ca
DRLHC Sites
Current status:
•Two DRLHC properties identified for redevelopment: Malaga Road and
Christine Crescent, Oshawa
Engagement plan:
•Project team and vision introduced to residents and to the surrounding
community on August 28, 2023
•Project website and e-mail is active and has received inquires
•Postcards sharing information about the redevelopment have been mailed to
the neighbouring community
Next steps:
•Further develop a community engagement plan
•Begin formal design and development process with the community
13
Project update: 1635 Dundas
durham.ca
1635 Dundas
Council direction:
•The priority is to ensure the facility is ready to provide low-barrier shelter services to
approximately 45 individuals to transition indoors this fall, while the community consultation
and engagement process is underway
•The first steps include deep cleaning and disinfection of equipment and fixtures, painting
rooms and other spaces, completing floor repairs, installing fencing and implementing
community planning measures
•Ongoing community engagement and consultation will help shape a longer-term vision for
the facility which will lead to a comprehensive renovation/retrofit plan
Current status:
•Repair work and building code upgrades are ongoing
o Community and partner feedback will inform the overall plan for the building
15
durham.ca
Phase Period Activities
1 August-September
2023
a)Use a variety of communications to share project information with the community,
including: news releases, project website, social media, newspaper ads, posters and in-
person postcards
b)Host an in-person engagement session (August 30) to seek input on future use
c)Launch a digital survey (August 30-September 27) on the project website to seek input
on future use
2 October-
November 2023
a)Use a variety of communications to share project information with the
community,including:news releases, project website, newspaper ads and social media
b)Host a Town Hall (October 3) to present a summary of community feedback to
community members
c)Share summary of community feedback on the project website
d)Establish a Community Advisory Committee:
•Interested parties will receive Terms of Reference and other engagement
opportunities during the week of October 2; first meeting to be held in October
3 January 2024 a)Present longer-term vision to Regional Council in conjunction with annual budget
process
4 2024-2026 a)Create opportunities for ongoing dialogue with community
Engagement Plan
16
durham.ca
Communications
17
Date Activity
August 3 Launched project website:yourdurham.ca/helpaddresshomelessness
August 4-6 Staff canvassed neighbourhood –postcards distributed
August 10-16 Social media posts
August 23-29 Metroland ads (Whitby this Week)
August 24 Staff canvassed neighbourhood –postcards distributed
Signs next to community flyers
August 25 Reminder email to Council
August 28-29 Metroland digital takeover (Whitby this week)
August 29-30 Social media posts
September 1-27 Digital and print communications promoting digital survey
September 12-
October 3
Digital and print communications promoting engagement session
durham.ca
In-Person Engagement Session
Summary:
•August 30, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Centennial Building, Whitby
•Venue reached capacity, resulting in a line outside the building
o Future sessions will be held at facilities with additional capacity
•Strong opinions were voiced at the engagement session
•Some residents’ behaviour was inappropriate
o De-escalation led to many productive conversations
•Drop -in format resulted in hundreds of individual pieces of feedback
o Format will be adjusted according to the objectives of the engagement
18
durham.ca
Next steps
•Ongoing opportunities for engagement through the virtual survey open
on the project website
•Town Hall to be hosted by the Region on October 3, 2023
•Community Advisory Committee to be announced in early October and a
meeting scheduled for mid-to-late October
19
durham.ca 20
Key System Needs
•Lack of a daytime program for the homeless population and individuals at risk of
homelessness
•Members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, particularly those who are victims of
human trafficking, encounter limited viable options when they face the challenge
of homelessness
•Homeless individuals are being discharged from hospitals without adequate post-
hospital care due to the limited availability of shelter beds
•Seniors who have specific needs and have self-identified as homeless are unable to
find suitable shelter beds due to a lack of availability
•Victims of human trafficking, refugees and asylum seekers are currently being
supported in hotels/motels rather than shelters, as there is a shortage of shelter
beds
durham.ca
@RegionofDurham
Provincial Initiatives:
The Province of Ontario is currently implementing the Ontario Housing Affordability
Task Force’s 2022 recommendations. Many of the recommendations call to permit more
housing as-of-right. This includes four units, and four storeys on single residential lots,
and modernizing the building code and other policies to remove barriers to affordable
housing construction.
• With the passage of Bill 23, as-of-right three units per lot are now permitted as of
right on most serviced land. This creates an opportunity to utilize modular or tiny
homes as accessory units.
• The Province is currently developing a Modular Housing Framework to expand
the its use and encourage innovation
• A survey on expanding the use of modular housing is open from January 9, to
February 4, 2024. It focuses on barriers including policy, legislation, regulation,
modular-friendly zoning, building codes, municipal by-laws.
• The Province has guides on modular housing and tiny homes geared towards
prospective builders which outlines municipal code and by-law requires as a key
considerations.
Federal Housing Accelerator Fund:
• The Federal Government is currently encouraging increased housing supply and
diversity through the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). This has resulted in many
municipalities modifying their policies and zoning by-laws to permit more housing
as-of-right and encourage the development of modular or tiny homes.
• Nearly all successful applicants in Ontario have committed to allowing four units
as of right, with some allowing four storeys as of right, either across the city, near
colleges and universities, or near transit.
• In an open letter to the City of London, the Federal Housing Minister outlined the
specific requests that would increase the chances of a successful application.
Highlighted Municipal Changes in Response to HAF:
• Milton, Ajax, Kingston, St. Catharines, Richmond Hills, Burlington, Guelph,
Mississauga, London, Vaughn, Kitchener, and Hamilton have committed to
allowing 4 units as of right on residential lots
• Kingston is encouraging the use of tiny homes through implementing guidelines
and a grant program and is partnering with the private sector to integrate modular
homes
• Guelph and Toronto have committed to permitting multiplexes as of right up to 4
storeys
• Toronto is considering permitting 6 units as of right in 2024
• Many municipalities have also committed to revising their zoning by-laws to
permit higher density developments as of right near transit stations.
City of Toronto Modular Housing Initiative
• Toronto is aiming to build 1,000 modular homes in its 2020-2030 Housing Action
Plan to increase its supply of affordable, supportive housing.
• 216 modular homes have been built so far across 4 sites. They are managed by
local non-profit housing providers.
Home Professionals Project funding and mor tgage financing Funding programs All funding
opportunities Housing Accelerator Fund Resources for Housing Accelerator Fund Applicants
SAVE SHARE
Resources for Housing Accelerator Fund
Applicants
Explore the 10 best practices from successful Housing Accelerator Fund
applications. You’ll also find letters from Minister Fraser to successful
applicants and the latest program updates.
10 Housing Accelerator Fund best practices: proven strategies to boost
supply and affordability
Here are the 10 best practices from successful Housing Accelerator Fund applications. Consider
them as your roadmap, specifically designed for municipalities aiming to enhance their affordable
housing plans.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is a highly competitive program which has attracted considerable
interest across Canada. The Housing Accelerator Fund was created to incentivize local
governments to implement the structural and lasting reforms that will increase the supply of
housing.
As we continue reviewing applications and engaging with municipalities, we may need more
details from some program applicants.
If we reach out to you to ask for more details, consider incorporating these best practices into your
application to boost your chances of success.
We invite all municipalities to explore these proven strategies and integrate them into their own
plans to bolster housing supply and affordability.
10 Housing Accelerator Fund best practices
1. End exclusionary zoning
Stop low-density zoning and regulation that excludes housing types such as
affordable and social housing in residential areas.
Encourage high density by allowing mixed-use development and high-density
residential as-of-right within proximity to urban cores and transit corridors.
This includes adopting by-laws to adopt more as-of-right zoning measures, from the
number of units to storeys.
2. Make municipally owned lands available for housing through strategies such as
disposition, acquisition and/or pre-development.
3. Increase process e ciency by implementing new technologies or software to speed up
development approvals, such as e-permitting.
4. Prioritized/enhanced development approval process for rental and affordable housing.
5. Comprehensive review of development charges and fee schedules including waivers, with
a focus on permits associated with affordable housing.
. Reduce or eliminate parking standards to increase project viability, density and reduce
carbon footprint.
7. Eliminate restrictions related to height, setbacks, building floor area and others to allow a
greater variety in housing types, including accessory dwelling units.
. Develop affordable housing community improvement plans or strategies/plans for the
rapid deployment of affordable housing.
9. Design and implement guidelines or pre-approved building plans for missing middle
housing or specific accessory dwelling unit types such as laneway housing or garden
suites.
10. Develop grant programs encouraging the development of housing types that align with the
Housing Accelerator Fund such as missing middle, row homes, purpose-built rental and/or
that promote new/innovative construction techniques (modular, pre-fab, mass timber
construction, etc.).
Letters from Minister Fraser to successful applicants
Here, you'll find letters from the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and
Communities to municipalities that have been approved for Housing Accelerator Funding. These
letters can provide you with more insights into the implementation and impact of these
municipalities’ housing initiatives.
As more municipalities across the country are approved through the program, we’ll update this
space. Sign up for updates and stay informed on all the exciting initiatives that aim to boost
housing supply and affordability across the country.
Letter to the City of London (PDF)
News release: Removing barriers to build more homes, faster in London, Ontario
Letter to Halifax Regional Municipality (PDF)
News release: Helping build more homes, faster in Halifax
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Date Published: October 23, 2023
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