The Métis Nation of Ontario, members of Midland council, and regional dignitaries broke ground on a 14-residential lot affordable housing development for Métis citizens at 283 Barnett Ave. on Wednesday,
Formerly the location of St. Theresa’s High School, construction on the 1.5-acre site adjacent to Hugel Avenue is expected to commence in the spring of 2024 with occupation pencilled for early 2025.
Attending the event were roughly 20 audience members, including supporters and curious townsfolk alike.
Hank Rowlinson, chair of the Métis Nation of Ontario, shared the importance of the project to the crowd.
“This affordable housing development in Midland is more than just bricks and mortar,” said Rowlinson. “It is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision; it is a beacon of hope for those who long for safe, affordable homes and a sense of belonging.”
He cited some statistics from last year’s MNO housing census which drove the project: as half of all respondents’ households in the region contain three or more persons, while just over a third of those households have low incomes.
“This data is the driving force behind our investment in this property, shining a light on some of the needs of the Métis citizens in Region 7 where Midland is situated,” Rowlinson added.
The project was partially funded through a government of Canada initiative, the Métis Nation Housing Sub-Accord, empowering Métis citizens to manage effective funding for their housing needs.
Leslie Stroud, representative for Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop, extended best wishes to the future families who would benefit from the development.
Midland Mayor Bill Gordon told the audience that affordable housing was a constant concern heard during last year’s campaign trail engagements.
“One of the depressing parts is that as a lower-tier municipality, we really don’t have any major role in developing and building homes,” said Gordon. “But, we are in the enabling business.”
Gordon added the town’s planning department had adapted to the changes resulting from Bill 23, with strong initiatives toward approving plans of subdivision and housing developments within the community.
“This is the first development in Midland that actually falls under the changes that have been instituted by the province under Bill 23,” explained Gordon, “so this is our first opportunity for development charge forgiveness – which is a double-edged sword; we still haven’t figured out where we send the invoice for the development charges.”
The comment drew laughter from those in attendance.
Civil works, including sewage, electrical and other earthworks, were marked for completion this fall.
Speaking with MidlandToday, Moon River Métis Council president Mark Mantha shared excitement for the project.
“It allows more opportunities for people who are struggling and making ends meet,” said Mantha. “It makes life a little better and takes the stress off for a few people, and hopefully, this is the beginning of many, many more projects like this.”
