BACKGROUND
The 2022 Federal Budget provided $4 billion in funding in order to launch the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). The Fund was an application-based program, overseen by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) with a single application window in 2023. The Town of Westlock submitted its application in August 2023.
Applications were evaluated based on a number of criteria, including commitment to increasing housing supply, alignment with the objectives of the Fund, effectiveness at increasing the supply of housing, and the demonstrated need for increased housing supply in the applicable community.
The Town of Westlock, like many communities in Canada, is currently facing a shortage of available housing that is affordable and suitable for residents at all wages, ages, and stages. The initiatives in the Town of Westlock Housing Action Plan targets both short-term supply issues and long-term improvements to the housing system. Initiatives were identified by Town administration based on their alignment to the HAF’s goals and the ability for said goals to be realized within the Fund’s 3-year timeline.
Learn about our progress in implementing the Housing Action Plan here.
WESTLOCK'S HOUSING ACTION PLAN
Developed by Town administration to address the town's unique housing needs and context, it targets both immediate supply concerns and long-term housing system improvements, aligning with HAF's objectives and fitting within a 3-year execution timeline.
Residential Development Incentive Program
Promotes diverse residential developments town-wide, offering per-unit incentives to home builders and owners and streamlines the development process with pre-approved construction plans, thus lowering entry barriers.
On April 22, the Town of Westlock Council adopted a Residential Development Grants Policy and a Residential Tax Incentive Bylaw. These created a New Construction grant stream offering $15,000 per unit for the construction of up to 4 units per property as well as a one-time tax cancellation of up to $5,000 per new housing unit in the year following occupancy. These programs are fully funded by the Housing Accelerator Fund.
Applications are now closed for 2024 for our New Home grant - learn more and register for the waitlist on future funding here.
Secondary, Garden, & Garage Suite Program
Encourages the creation of new living spaces within low-density areas, facilitated by bylaw amendments and per-suite incentives for contractors and homeowners, aiming to diversify and increase housing options.
On April 22, the Town of Westlock Council adopted a Residential Development Grants Policy that included a grant stream for secondary, garage and garden suites. This stream offers a $10,000 per suite grant for new suites or existing non-permitted suites which are brought up to code. This program is fully funded by the Housing Accelerator Fund. Applications for this grant stream will be accepted annually.
On May 10, the Town of Westlock Council passed amendments to the Town's Land Use Bylaw which will improve the application process and provide surety for those adding a suite to a R1 (Low Density Residential District) zoned property.
Pre-approved plans are available for licensing for garage and garden suites, offering a streamlined application process for those wanting to add a rental suite to their property.
Applications are now closed for 2024 for our Suite grant - learn more and register for the waitlist here.
Aspendale Area Structure Plan
Prepares the Aspendale neighbourhood for future development to ensure the Town retains a sufficient supply of development ready land, while advocating for a variety of housing types to meet broader community needs.
This project is intended to begin early 2025.
Southview Residential Subdivision Project
Addresses the immediate shortage of available lots through infrastructure investment and subdivision, integrating new developments with existing community resources and connectivity.
Construction on the infrastructure improvements is scheduled to began in July 2024, and the lots will be available for pre-sale starting Monday, September 9.
Learn more about the subdivision and other available vacant lots for residential development in Westlock here.
Housing Policy Framework Improvements
Strengthens regulatory and policy foundations to tackle prevalent housing issues, including inadequacies in housing availability, the missing-middle gap, and affordability crises, through enhancements to crucial municipal documents.
On May 10, the Town of Westlock Council passed amendments to the Town's Land Use Bylaw which will improve the application process and provide surety for those adding a suite to a R1 (Low Density Residential District) zoned property.
The Town of Westlock is currently refreshing its Municipal Development Plan (MDP) with a focus on improving the housing-related policies in this high level plan. More information about this project and its progress can be found here.
E-Permitting System
Simplifies the development application process, reducing bureaucratic delays through a digital permitting system that offers convenience, speed, and transparency for applicants.
The online portal for applications is expected to be operational by the end of 2024.
Questions?
Danielle Pougher, Director of Planning and Development
780-349-4444