Lambton County administration building on Broadway St. in Wyoming. Blackburn Media photo by Colin Gowdy.Lambton County administration building on Broadway St. in Wyoming. Blackburn Media photo by Colin Gowdy.
Sarnia

County to develop strategy to address housing crisis

The County of Lambton is putting affordable housing and homelessness under the microscope.

Social Services Manager Valerie Colasanti said they're working to hire a consultant to undertake a five-year review of the county's housing and homelessness plan.

"We know that we have a bit of a housing crisis in Lambton County, but we're not alone," said Colasanti. "Many communities are experiencing the same, with the good economy that's happening, people are looking for housing, prices are going up -- so, those with low income are struggling to find rental units or affordable housing."

Colasanti said the review will include consultations, and provide an opportunity to engage the community in developing a county-wide strategy to address issues.

She said they'll be investigating solutions for chronic homelessness, the adequacy of support services, and the development of additional affordable housing.

According to the county, the waitlist for rent-geared-to-income housing has increased by 53 per cent over 2018.

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