Council Highlights February 9, 2026

NEW BUSINESS

Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Annual Update

• The Town of Westlock continues to progress under the federally funded Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). The Town received its second disbursement in January 2025 and has now fully completed all initiatives outlined in our 2023 Housing Action Plan.
  • Key Achievements to Date
    • 33 net new housing units permitted since program launch, demonstrating a clear acceleration over historical trends.
    • 2025 reporting period (Jan 5, 2025–Jan 4, 2026): 19 net new units (5 single detached, 14 missing-middle units)
  • All HAF-funded initiatives completed, including:
    • Land Use Bylaw amendments (2025) to expand housing options and improve development viability.
    • Adoption of the Aspendale Area Structure Plan (Dec 2025) to prepare future development-ready lands.
    • Continued success of the Residential Development Incentive Program and Secondary Suite Incentive Program, both fully subscribed in 2024 and 2025.
    • Implementation of an e-permitting system that is now also used for business licensing which improves transparency and reduce processing times.
    • Advancement of the Southview Subdivision, with 4 lots under construction or purchased and 14 still available.
  • Program Impact
    • Housing activity has reached levels not seen since 2008 (permit values) and 2012 (housing starts).
    • The Town has met annual CMHC reporting requirements and remains in good standing.
    • All funding has been allocated to eligible initiatives.
  • 2026 Outlook
    • Administration will continue delivering the Town’s successful grant and tax incentive programs, with 2026 applications opening in March.
    • With all original Housing Action Plan actions complete, the Town anticipates offering more grants in 2026.
    • Focus will shift to monitoring outcomes, refining programs, and ensuring the Town maintains a strong supply of development-ready land.
• Council accepted the report as information.

BUSINESS ARISING FROM CLOSED SESSION

Community Events Committee Appointment

• Council resolved to appoint Rebecca Young to the Community Events Committee.

Next Meeting: Committee of the Whole
Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Council Highlights provide a summary of decisions and discussions. For official minutes and supporting documents, visit www.westlock.ca.