The City of Windsor may be walking away from $40 million of funding through the federal government's Housing Accelerator Fund.
In the summer, the city applied for the fund that offers incentives for housing developments.
During the approval process, city staff were told they would not be approved for the fund if the city did not approve up to four dwelling units on properties in low-density zones.
"What we were told is, agree to as-of-right in all low-density areas... was almost a minimum ticket entry item," said Jelena Payne, Commissioner, Economic Development & Innovation.
At a special-meeting Wednesday afternoon, Mayor Drew Dilkens expressed fears over what this move could do to existing neighbourhoods already concerned with flooding issues, traffic, and parking.
"What's being asked of us here, is allow a four-plex anywhere in the city. So if you live in Riverside, think of your neighbours, think of that house being bought and two-weeks from now a four-plex going up," said Dilkens.
Many agreed the risk was not worth the potential funding.
"I think the risk is just a little too high," said Councillor Fred Francis. "The reward is just not there especially when we hear from our residents, pretty frequently, what the concerns are about how fast we are growing and how fast we are moving."
Ultimately, council voted to leave their application as it was submitted in the summer.
Councillor Kieran McKenzie and Councillor Renaldo Augostino voted against the motion. Councillor Fabio Costante was not at the special meeting due to a scheduling conflict.
"We're in a crisis and a crisis that is significantly impacting the quality of life in our community. With this opportunity in front of us, I'm not discounting the challenges that it will represent, but I think it is just too much to say not to given the circumstances that exist in Windsor today," said McKenzie.
