February 19, 2024 Town of Westlock Announces Progress in Addressing Housing Shortages with Funding from CMHC Housing Accelerator Fund

News Release

For Immediate Release

February 19, 2024

Town of Westlock Announces Progress in Addressing Housing Shortages with Funding from CMHC Housing Accelerator Fund

Westlock, AB – The Town of Westlock is happy to announce its successful application to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). The achievement of securing this funding, a result of Council's directive from the July 10, 2023, Regular Meeting, reflects our ongoing commitment to immediate and long-term housing solutions. With $1.1 million in funding released over four years, we will focus on implementing the elements of our Housing Action Plan.

The Housing Action Plan consists of several initiatives, including the Residential Development Incentive Program, which will offer financial incentives for select housing types in key areas of Westlock. The Secondary, Garden and Garage Suite Program will encourage the development of secondary units in high-impact areas, supported by bylaw amendments and targeted financial grants. Additionally, the Aspendale Area Structure Plan will unlock future residential development opportunities in the Aspendale neighbourhood, and the Southview Residential Subdivision Project will integrate new residential lots into an existing community.

We'll also continue our work on the Housing Policy Framework Improvements, focusing on the most critical policy changes to support varied housing needs and affordability. Furthermore, an e-permitting system will be implemented to streamline the housing development application process, ensuring efficiency and transparency.

"These initiatives, aligned with the objectives of the HAF, underscore Westlock's proactive and flexible approach to creating a sustainable and inclusive housing environment," said Simone Wiley, Chief Administrative Officer. "We are dedicated to our community and confident that these focused initiatives will bring significant benefits to our residents at all life stages and economic situations."

"Being awarded the Housing Accelerator Fund is a significant win for our community," said Jon Kramer, Mayor. "The funding we will receive is a direct result of the diligent efforts, strategic planning, and months of hard work of our Town Council and Administration. The success of this initiative clearly demonstrates our federal government recognizes the growth potential within the Town of Westlock. Our recent growth in infrastructure, business, and industry has set the stage, and now, with this grant, we can ensure our housing development keeps pace. This investment is a critical step in effectively and efficiently addressing the housing shortage in Westlock, propelling us towards a future of prosperity and growth."

Media contact:

Simone Wiley, Chief Administrative Officer
Town of Westlock
780-350-2100

Jon Kramer, Mayor
Town of Westlock
780-349-4444

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