Wilmot Township advances new affordable housing incentive policy

Wilmot Township Council has approved a new policy that will exempt property taxes on newly built affordable housing units, marking a significant step in the Township’s efforts to address housing affordability for residents.

This policy offers a 20-year property tax exemption for affordable housing projects led by non-profit and cooperative housing providers. It aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s existing property tax exemption framework and supports the provincial goal of accelerating housing construction across Ontario.

Council has identified housing affordability as a top priority in Wilmot’s 2024–2027 Strategic Plan. The new policy builds on previous Council actions, including the exemption of regional development charges for Nith View Homes’ 160-bed long-term care facility approved in 2024.

The Township expects the new policy will help unlock new opportunities for affordable and supportive housing development across Wilmot. Council will continue exploring additional tools to address the housing crisis and strengthen livability for all residents.

Quotes
Natasha Salonen, Mayor of Wilmot Township

“We know that real solutions require collaboration. This exemption creates the conditions for our non-profit partners—and potentially for-profit builders—to deliver housing that meets the needs of some residents, right here in New Hamburg, Baden, New Dundee, and beyond. It’s one part of a bigger picture where Wilmot is stepping up.”

“This is about taking meaningful, concrete steps to tackle the housing crisis in our community. This policy is one way we can say: we see the need, and we’re acting on it."

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For media inquiries:
Nick Higgins | Executive Officer to Mayor and Council
519-807-2370 | nick.higgins@wilmot.ca