The Municipality of Brockton has taken another step toward addressing local housing pressures with the approval of an updated Community Improvement Plan that places a strong emphasis on multi-unit and affordable housing development.
The updated plan now includes a range of new and expanded financial incentives aimed at stimulating residential growth on eligible properties throughout the municipality.
“This update to our Community Improvement Plan is about taking real, practical steps to address housing needs in Brockton,” said Mayor Chris Peabody. “By expanding our incentives to support multi-unit and affordable housing, we’re creating opportunities for growth that reflect the needs of residents of all ages, household sizes, and income levels.”
The updated plan also supports projects funded through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Accelerator Fund. Brockton has been approved to receive up to $3.4 million through the program, which is designed to help communities increase housing supply by advancing studies, encouraging appropriate development and promoting a broader mix of housing types.
“Housing affordability and availability are challenges being felt across the country,” said Peabody. “This funding allows Brockton to be proactive — planning responsibly, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring new housing aligns with the needs of our growing community.”
Community Improvement Plans allow municipalities to focus investment in specific areas and encourage redevelopment through tools permitted under the Planning Act and the Municipal Act, 2001. With an approved CIP in place, municipalities can offer grants, loans and property tax relief to help spur projects that align with local priorities.
Under the revised Community Improvement Plan, Brockton now offers 10 incentive programs intended to attract investment and encourage housing development, including an Affordable Housing Reserve Fund, a Tax Increment Equivalent Funding program, a Vacant and Underutilized Properties Conversion and Expansion Grant, and several improvement grants.
Funding for the programs is determined annually during the municipal budget process, with applications accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible property and business owners can now apply for available grants through the municipality.
In addition to local incentives, qualifying landowners and commercial or retail tenants may seek support through Bruce County’s Spruce the Bruce Community Development Program, which operates separately but is enabled locally through Brockton’s Community Improvement Plan. That program provides financial assistance for projects that enhance commercial districts and public spaces, further contributing to the overall goal of building healthy and vibrant communities.
