Fourplexes will soon be permitted “as-of-right” on all residential properties in the Municipality of Lakeshore.
At a special meeting this week, the town council passed a Zoning By-law Amendment to apply for a grant through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund. The municipality was unsuccessful in the first round of funding.
“Council members demonstrated bold leadership on a tough but critical decision related to one of the defining issues of our time, housing,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “We continue to face significant pressures on our infrastructure systems, which has highlighted the need to find partners at all levels of government and identify solutions whenever possible to facilitate the future growth of our communities.”
The amendment allows developers to incorporate additional units into new or existing buildings.
“Certainly, this does not mean that a fourplex will pop up at every corner in Lakeshore,” said Bailey. “Housing growth will continue to be dictated by where our infrastructure will allow it. Council will hear more on those necessary infrastructure investments as part of the upcoming Water and Wastewater Master Plan.”
According to a report to councillors, the only area that could accommodate four-unit developments would be immediately near the Denis St. Pierre Water Pollution Control Plant. By passing this motion, fourplexes will be allowed on all residential properties as more capacity is added.
Applications for the second round of funding through the Housing Accelerator Fund must be submitted by September 13, 2024.