CK Housing Study Update 2012

Municipality of Chatham-Kent
Housing Study Update
PREPARED BY:
MARCH 2012
Executive Summary
Housing is a vital human need. Housing choices, including affordable, accessible and supportive housing, are critical components of prosperous, complete and healthy communities. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent and its housing partners have an important role in the provision of housing for all residents. In 2006 the Municipality initiated its first comprehensive housing study. Since that time a number of activities have been initiated to help address local housing needs, including: Resale of 75 new affordable ownership dwellings and 41 new affordable rental units were built as well as adding 40 rental subsidies (Housing Allowances) Establishment of Habitat for Humanity affiliate Completion of capital repairs and improvements to accessibility of existing social housing units Hiring of a Youth and Immigrant Coordinator Hosting a number of educational activities (housing forums, training workshops etc.) Implementation of cascading age policy for seniors buildings Ongoing advocacy efforts for increased funding for housing programs and support services, including emergency program funding
Housing Issues
While these initiatives have been helpful in starting to address many key issues, certain housing needs remain unmet. This Housing Study Update replaces the 2006 Housing Study, with updated information on the key housing issues facing residents of Chatham-Kent and builds upon the recommendations in order to create a strategic framework in which to continue to address housing needs over the next ten years. NEW HOUSING STOCK SHOULD BE FURTHER DIVERSIFIED Based on projections1, there will need to be an average annual increase of 194 new units over the 2011 to 2031 period. This is slightly higher than the average number of building permits issued over the past nine years (174 units/year). While the creation
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All population and household projections are based on data provided by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd.
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Municipality of Chatham-Kent Housing Study Update Report (Final Draft March 2012)
of new units is keeping pace with demand, activity by type has not shown much diversification (approximately 80% of starts over 2005-2010 period were single detached). Smaller households and aging of the population further emphasize the need for a diverse and flexible stock. EXISTING HOUSING STOCK THAT IS TYPICALLY MORE AFFORDABLE IS AGING AND IN POORER CONDITION The housing stock in Chatham-Kent remains older than the average for the provincial stock as a whole and the municipality experienced less new development since the last Census period. Aging housing stock means higher energy costs making it less affordable and possibly less safe. EMPLOYMENT TRENDS DUE TO ECONOMIC SHIFTS CAN CREATE DEMAND FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING High unemployment rates as a result of job loss and the recent economic downturn and increasing demand for income assistance influences household stability and affordability. SENIORS POPULATION REQUIRES A RANGE OF HOUSING AND SUPPORT OPTIONS The aging of the population will continue with forecasts estimating that over one-third of the total population will be over the age of 55 by 2031. Many seniors are staying at home longer and looking for supports in the home. This is consistent with provincial directions, which are emphasizing more aging at home options for seniors. Waiting lists for affordable long term care are growing as are waiting lists for senior social housing units. AFFORDABILITY REMAINS AN ISSUE IN BOTH RENTAL AND OWNERSHIP MARKETS Many renter households are facing affordability challenges and for about twenty percent of households the private rental market is out of reach. Waiting lists for social housing have increased as have the number of households in receipt of income assistance. While the homeownership market is affordable to most households it is still out of reach for households in the lower income ranges. Population groups such as lone parents, single persons, youth, Aboriginal persons, and persons with disabilities are experiencing higher rates of affordability challenges. VACANCY RATES REMAIN HIGH Social housing units saw vacancy rates decline for adult and seniors buildings while vacancy rates remain higher for family units particularly in Wallaceburg. Vacancy rate in the private market remain high at about 7% (a healthy vacancy rate is generally considered 3%). Given fairly high vacancy rates and continued wait list for
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some type of social housing units, additional rent supplement units should be considered in addition to the creation of new rental units. RURAL RESIDENTS FACE BARRIERS IN ACCESSING SERVICES While there have been some improvements to public transportation, access to services remains a challenge for individuals, in particular seniors and persons with disabilities, to access the services they need. SOME SOCIAL HOUSING TENANTS WOULD BENEFIT FROM SUPPORT SERVICES Stakeholders emphasized a continued need for support services for some social housing tenants. Often residents need assistance with lifeskills (parenting, healthy eating, budgeting etc.), and counselling in order to maintain their home. NEED FOR RANGE OF SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING OPTIONS (Emergency/Transitional, Supportive, Accessible) There is a limited supply of emergency, transitional and supportive housing in Chatham-Kent. Demand for supportive housing has been increasing and stakeholders point to a lack of emergency options for youth, men and single women. The need for more accessible housing also continues and is anticipated to increase with the aging of population.
Framework for Developing Housing Policy

Given the fundamental necessity for a range of housing within Chatham-Kent the Municipality is aspiring to create greater opportunities to respond to these diverse needs. In order to identify such opportunities and actions a framework has been developed to guide the Municipality in achieving its housing goals. Importantly, the Chatham-Kent Housing Framework considers both the local and senior government policy context.
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CK Parks and Rec Master plan CK Official Plan and Growth Analysis
Provincial Policy Statement
Local Health Integrated Networks (LHIN) Home First Housing Services Act
Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy
CK Transportation Master Plan CK Community Strategic Plan
Investment in Affordable Housing Program CK Healthy Community Initiatives
CK Cultural Master Plan
On November 22nd 2011, stakeholders gathered to collectively set a direction for housing in Chatham-Kent. Stakeholders included representatives from various support service agencies and non-profit organizations, housing providers, municipal staff, and the private sector. A housing vision, objectives, and actions and targets resulted from this dialogue and are illustrated as the Chatham-Kent Housing Framework. The housing vision provides an overarching goal of where the community strives to be from a housing perspective. In order to work towards this vision, and to meet necessary senior government regulations, housing targets have been developed. These targets are aimed at increasing the supply of affordable, supportive and accessible housing throughout the Municipality and form the foundation for the development of housing objectives and actions.
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CHATHAM-KENT HOUSING PLAN FRAMEWORK
HOUSING VISION
To provide residents of Chatham-Kent with a full range of housing choices that meet their diverse needs and promote a community of collaboration, acceptance, and pride. This range of housing includes accessible, affordable, safe and supportive housing.
Senior Govt Policy
HOUSING TARGETS 25% Affordable Housing (including 2% supportive) & 5% Accessible Housing Local Policy
HOUSING OBJECTIVES
Plan for Diverse Supply Improve and Maintain Supply Increase affordable Supply Ensure Emergency and Transitional Options Expand Range of Supports Promote and Educate
HOUSING MEASURES Housing Report Card & 5 year Official Plan and Housing Plan Reviews
To support the housing vision and targets, six housing objectives have been identified. These six housing objectives respond to the current housing issues facing ChathamKent and a series of actions are identified under each objective. The actions present a range of opportunities either through policy development, financial incentives, advocacy and support, or education and awareness, to address the key housing needs facing the communities of Chatham-Kent. Those actions which are considered of higher importance by stakeholders are identified as priorities (i.e. within the first three years) while the balance of the actions are planned for the remaining planning period. PLAN FOR A DIVERSE RANGE OF HOUSING CHOICES Adopt the housing vision, objectives and targets as part of the Official Plan PRIORITY review Eliminate zoning barriers that create restrictions for affordable and supportive housing development options Include a policy as part of Official Plan Review, which permits second suites PRIORITY in all residential zones PRIORITY Adopt 5% accessible housing target v
IMPROVE AND MAINTAIN EXISTING HOUSING STOCK PRIORITY Continue to participate in housing renovation funding programs Develop a plan to maintain service level standards as required by the Housing Services Act Continue to complete regular building condition assessments and commit funding to social housing reserves Develop a strategic asset management plan for social housing stock Investigate feasibility and appropriateness of selling family units in PRIORITY Wallaceburg to address vacancy concerns, and determine most appropriate reallocation of units to meet current and projected housing needs (maintaining service level standards) INCREASE SUPPLY OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING Adopt 25% affordable housing target including 2% supportive housing target PRIORITY Encourage linkages with various funding programs and municipal incentives to maximize funding potential for affordable housing Adopt definition of affordable housing, as per the Provincial Policy PRIORITY Statement and Municipal Facilities Bylaw, as part of the current Official Plan review Continue to participate in affordable housing programs and other funding PRIORITY programs that may become available in order to achieve affordable housing targets Encourage new affordable housing using municipal tools and incentives such as relief of taxes and charges, securing sites and including affordable housing in new developments ENSURE AVAILABILITY OF EMERGENCY AND TRANSITIONAL HOUSING OPTIONS FOR RESIDENTS Investigate opportunities to collaborate with housing providers and local support agencies to provide emergency and supportive housing options within existing buildings that may be experiencing vacancies Further analyze emergency and transitional housing and support needs PRIORITY within Municipality (including consultation with persons experiencing homelessness) in order to develop a Homelessness Plan which responds to the requirements of the Housing Services Act Support community agencies (i.e. in accessing funding opportunities) in developing emergency and transitional housing and support options PROMOTE EXPANDING RANGE OF SUPPORT SERVICES (IN URBAN AND RURAL AREAS) Conduct landlord and tenant positive relationship workshop. Broaden membership of Seniors Advisory Committee to include more agencies (i.e. CCAC). Conduct a survey of social housing providers and tenants to determine supports needed to foster positive tenant-landlord relationships vi

PRIORITY
Initiate community working group comprised of housing providers, municipal staff, and support service agencies (including CCAC) to identify opportunities to leverage resources and provide more support services for tenants Continue efforts to provide service hubs at municipal locations to assist support agencies in delivering support services to rural communities Conduct target focus groups to further identify housing and support service needs of Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, homeless, victims of domestic violence, and youth
PROMOTE, EDUCATE, AND CREATE AWARENESS OF HOUSING NEEDS IN CHATHAMKENT Continue to be a leader in further education and awareness of housing issues Continue to advocate with local and provincial partners on such issues as: o Increases to income support programs o Inclusionary zoning provisions o Continued and increased funding for housing assistance (emergency housing, social housing, affordable housing, rent banks, energy banks etc.) o Simplified guidelines/rules for funding programs Conduct affordable housing capacity workshop to bring together potential partners (i.e. community organizations, private corporations, developers, builders, financial institutions, support service agencies, real estate sector etc.) to work towards enhancing capacity for affordable housing programs To ensure accountability and to meet the requirements of the Housing Services Act, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent will develop and distribute an annual Housing Report Card to monitor community progress in meeting the housing actions and targets. The Housing Report Card will include such indicators as number of new units created (affordable, accessible, supportive, and other), updated waiting list statistics, amount of funding contributed towards housing, number of partnerships created, number of educational initiatives implemented etc. Other measuring tools include the five-year Official Plan review as well as the new required five-year Housing and Homelessness Plan review.
Partnership
Achieving this vision calls for leadership from the Municipality and strong dedication by all stakeholders. While Chatham-Kent has a leadership role to play community partners from across sectors must come together, each with a unique contribution, to reach the affordable housing targets and housing objectives over the next ten years.
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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction ......................................................................................... 1 1.1 Study Background ................................................................................ 1 1.1.1 Provincial Housing Policy Changes ....................................................... 1 1.2 Study Purpose .................................................................................... 2 1.3 Study Approach and Format .................................................................... 3 1.3.1 Sources of Information .................................................................... 3 1.3.2 Study Area ................................................................................... 4 1.4 The Chatham-Kent Housing Continuum ...................................................... 5 2.0 Demographic Profile ............................................................................... 7 2.1 Population Characteristics ..................................................................... 7 2.1.1 Trends in Population Growth by Community ........................................... 8 2.1.2 Trends in Age Distribution ............................................................... 10 2.1.3 Population Projections ................................................................... 11 2.2 Household Characteristics ..................................................................... 12 2.2.1 Trends in Household Growth............................................................. 12 2.2.2 Trends in Household Size................................................................. 13 2.2.3 Trends in Household Type................................................................ 14 2.2.4 Household Projections .................................................................... 15 2.3 Economic Indicators ............................................................................ 16 2.3.1 Economic Overview ....................................................................... 16 2.3.2 Labour Force Activity ..................................................................... 17 2.4 Income Analysis ................................................................................. 20 2.4.1 Trends in Household Income ............................................................. 20 2.4.2 Household Income by Income Range ................................................... 25 2.4.3 Household Income by Decile ............................................................. 26 2.4.4 Trends in Minimum Wage and Social Assistance ...................................... 29 2.4.5 Trends in Wage Rates ..................................................................... 32 2.4.6 Incidence of Low Income ................................................................. 34 2.5 Summary of Demographic Profile ............................................................ 35 3.0 Existing Housing Supply........................................................................... 38 3.1 Trends in Dwelling Types ...................................................................... 38 3.2 Trends in Tenure................................................................................ 40 3.3 Condition of Housing Stock .................................................................... 43 3.4 Recent Housing Supply Activity ............................................................... 45 3.4.1 Housing Starts and Completions ......................................................... 45 3.4.2 Demolitions and Conversions ............................................................ 47 3.4.3 Summary of Building Permits Issued .................................................... 47 3.4.4 Summary of Recent Activity to Projections ........................................... 49 3.4.5 Inventory of Designated Lands for Residential Development ....................... 49 3.5 Summary of Existing Housing Stock .......................................................... 51 4.0 Home Ownership Market ......................................................................... 52
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4.1 Overview ......................................................................................... 52 4.2 Trends in Ownership Tenure .................................................................. 52 4.3 Trends in House Prices ......................................................................... 53 4.4 Summary of Home Ownership Market ....................................................... 56 5.0 Rental Housing Market ............................................................................ 57 5.1 Overview ......................................................................................... 57 5.2 Trends in Rental Tenure ....................................................................... 57 5.2.1 Trends in Vacancy Rates ................................................................. 58 5.2.2 Trends in Average Market Rents ........................................................ 61 5.3 Summary of Rental Housing Market .......................................................... 64 6.0 Social Housing...................................................................................... 65 6.1 Changes to Social Housing Portfolio ......................................................... 65 6.2 Current Breakdown of Public Housing Stock ................................................ 68 6.3 Social Housing Market Rents .................................................................. 69 6.4 Social Housing Waiting List .................................................................... 70 6.5 Affordable Housing ............................................................................. 76 6.6 Summary of Social Housing .................................................................... 78 7.0 Special Needs Housing ............................................................................ 80 7.1 Emergency and Transitional Housing ........................................................ 80 7.2 Supportive Housing ............................................................................. 84 7.3 Student Housing................................................................................. 87 7.4 Aboriginal Housing .............................................................................. 87 7.5 Housing for New Canadians ................................................................... 88 7.6 Seniors Housing ................................................................................. 89 7.6.1 Seniors Age Distribution and Projections .............................................. 89 7.6.2 Seniors and Tenure........................................................................ 91 7.6.3 Household Income of Senior Households ............................................... 92 7.6.4 Seniors Subsidized Housing .............................................................. 94 7.6.5 Retirement Housing for Seniors ......................................................... 95 7.6.6 Long-Term Care Homes................................................................... 97 7.6.7 Other Supportive Housing for Seniors .................................................. 99 7.6.8 In-Home Supports for Seniors ............................................................ 99 7.6.9 Supply and Demand for Seniors Housing ............................................... 99 7.6.10 Summary of Special Needs Housing ..................................................... 99 8.0 Housing Affordability Analysis ..................................................................102 8.1 Home ownership Affordability ..............................................................102 8.1.1 Trends in Mortgage Rates ...............................................................102 8.1.2 Income of Home Owners ................................................................103 8.1.3 Ownership Affordability by Income Spent on Shelter ...............................104 8.1.4 Home Ownership Affordability by Income Decile ....................................105 8.2 Rental Housing Affordability .................................................................107 8.2.1 Income Ranges for Renter Households ................................................107 8.2.2 Rental Affordability by Income Spent on Rent .......................................109
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8.2.3 Rental Affordability by Income Decile ................................................110 8.3 Affordability by Household Type and Size .................................................113 8.4 Affordability by Wage Rates .................................................................116 8.5 Summary of Housing Affordability in Chatham-Kent .....................................117 9.0 Summary of Changes in Housing Needs .......................................................120 10.0 Summary of Achievements and Current Status of Recommendations ....................125 11.0 Housing Directions and Actions 2012-2022....................................................126 11.1 Policy Context..................................................................................126 11.2 Chatham-Kent Housing Plan Framework ...................................................129 11.2.1 A Housing Vision for Chatham-Kent ....................................................130 11.2.2 Housing Targets ..........................................................................130 11.2.3 Housing Objectives .......................................................................132 11.2.4 Housing Measures.........................................................................133 11.2.5 Housing Actions and Targets ............................................................134 11.3 Cost Benefit Analysis of Recommended Actions...........................................144 11.4 Next Steps ......................................................................................155
List of Appendices
Appendix Appendix Appendix Appendix Appendix Appendix Appendix A Tables ......................................................................................157 B List of Key Informants ...................................................................168 C Surveys.....................................................................................170 D Summary of Ontario Housing Policy Statement ......................................171 E Summary of 2006 Recommendation ...................................................173 F Chatham-Kent Housing Plan ............................................................188 G Chatham-Kent Housing Report Card ...................................................200
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List of Tables
Table 1: Comparative Growth Rates throughout Chatham-Kent, 1986- 2006 .................................. 7 Table 2: Major Public and Private Sector Employers, Chatham-Kent .......................................... 17 Table 3: Labour Force Activity by Community, 2006 ............................................................. 18 Table 4: Labour Force Activity by Industry, Chatham-Kent, 1996-2006 ....................................... 19 Table 5: Comparison of Average Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario & Canada, 1990-2005 .... 21 Table 6: Comparison of Median Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario and Canada, 1990-2005 ... 23 Table 7: Household Income Deciles, Chatham-Kent, 2006 ....................................................... 27 Table 8: Ontario Works Rates and Shelter Allowance Rates for ODSP Clients ................................ 29 Table 9: Historical Overview of Ontario Minimum Wage Rates ................................................. 30 Table 10: Ontario Works Average Number of Recipients, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2010 ....................... 30 Table 11: Average Caseload Numbers for ODSP, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2011 ................................. 30 Table 12: Average Wage Rates by Occupation, Windsor-Sarnia Area, 2004 and 2010 Wages .............. 33 Table 13: Incidence of Low Income, by Community, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2006.................... 35 Table 14: Residential Building Permits Issued by Ward, Chatham-Kent, 2002-2010 ........................ 48 Table 15: Building Permits Issued by Housing Type, Chatham-Kent, 2002-2010 ............................. 48 Table 16: Residential Development Potential by Community, Chatham-Kent, As of May 2011 ........... 50 Table 17: Distribution of Ownership Dwellings by Community in Chatham-Kent, 2006 .................... 52 Table 18: MPAC Sales by Dwelling Type, 2006-2011 .............................................................. 53 Table 19: MPAC Sales by Price Range, 2005-2011 ................................................................. 55 Table 20: Distribution of Rental Dwellings by Community in Chatham-Kent, 2006 ......................... 57 Table 21: Rental Housing Vacancy Rates in Chatham-Kent, 2009-2010 ....................................... 60 Table 22: Private Apartment Average Rents, 1999-2010, Chatham-Kent CA ................................. 63 Table 23: Public Housing Portfolio by Mandate, Geographic Location and Unit Size ....................... 65 Table 24: Non-Profit, Co-operative and Federal Providers Housing Portfolio by Mandate, Geographic Location and Unit Size .................................................................................................. 66 Table 25: Summary of Social Housing Portfolio .................................................................... 67 Table 26: Social Housing Accessible Units by Community, C-K Social Housing, Non-Profits and Cooperatives ............................................................................................................. 67 Table 27: Social Housing Average Market Rents ................................................................... 70 Table 28: Social Housing Vacancy Rates by Community, Quarterly, 2009-2011 .............................. 74 Table 29: Public Housing, Number of Vacant Units by Community and Mandate, Quarterly, 2009-2011 75 Table 30: Public Housing Wait Times, November 2005 and June 2011 ........................................ 76 Table 31: Affordable Housing Program (AHP) Funding Summary .............................................. 77 Table 32: Overview of Emergency and Transitional Housing Supply, Chatham-Kent 2010 ................. 81 Table 33: Overview of Supportive Housing Supply, Chatham-Kent 2010 ...................................... 85 Table 34: Households Age 65+ by Community, 2006 .............................................................. 90 Table 35: Summary of Housing Providers for Seniors in Chatham-Kent, 2011 ................................ 94 Table 36: Retirement Home Vacancy Rates by Bed Type, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2009-2011 ...... 96 Table 37: Retirement Home Vacancy Rates by Rent Range, Chatham-Kent, 2009-2011 ................... 97 Table 38: Overview of LTC Homes, 2011 ............................................................................ 97 Table 39: Trends in the Waiting List for Long-Term Care Facilities, As of August 2011 .................... 98 Table 40: Erie St. Clair Community Care Access Centre Caseload by Age, 2007-2011 ...................... 99 Table 41: Summary of Affordable Rents and Affordable Housing Cost in Chatham-Kent, 2011 .......... 119
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List of Figures
Figure 1: The Chatham-Kent Geographical Area ..................................................................... 5 Figure 2: Chatham-Kent Housing Supply Continuum ................................................................ 6 Figure 3: Comparative Growth Rates, 1986/1991 to 2001/2006, Chatham-Kent and Ontario ............... 8 Figure 4: Historical Population by Community (Percent of Total Population), 2001-2006 ................... 9 Figure 5: Historical Population by Community (Absolute Numbers), 2001-2006 ............................... 9 Figure 6: Change in Population by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006 .................................. 10 Figure 7: Trends in Age Distribution, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006 ............................................... 11 Figure 8: Population Projections, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031 ................................................... 11 Figure 9: Projected Population by Age Group, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031 .................................... 12 Figure 10: Number of Households by Community, 2006 .......................................................... 13 Figure 11: Trends in Household Size, Chatham-Kent, ............................................................ 13 Figure 12: Trends in Persons Household Size, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006 ..................................... 14 Figure 13: Trends in Historical Households by Household Type, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006 ............... 15 Figure 14: Households by Selected Household Types, Chatham-Kent, 2006 .................................. 15 Figure 15: Household Projections, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031 .................................................. 16 Figure 16: Unemployment Rates by Community, Chatham-Kent, (2001-2006) ............................... 17 Figure 17: Trends in Full-time and Part Year or Part-time Employment, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006 .... 20 Figure 18: Comparison of Average Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario and Canada, 1990-2005 21 Figure 19: Comparison of Average Household Income by Community and Ontario, 2005 Incomes ....... 22 Figure 20: Comparison of Median Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario and Canada, 1990-2005. 23 Figure 21: Comparison of Median Household Income by Community and Ontario, 2005 Incomes ........ 24 Figure 22: Percentage Change of Household Income Groups, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006 .................. 25 Figure 23: Comparison of 1995, 2000 and 2005 Income from Chatham-Kent ................................. 26 Figure 24: Household Income Deciles by Selected Household Characteristics, Chatham-Kent, 2005 .... 28 Figure 25: Household Income Deciles by Age of Primary Household Maintainer, Chatham-Kent, 2005 .. 29 Figure 26: Proportion of Population Receiving OW and ODSP, South West Region, 2011 .................. 31 Figure 27: Chatham-Kent Ontario Works Caseload Composition, 2008-2011 ................................. 32 Figure 28: Occupied Private Dwellings, Chatham-Kent, 2001 and 2006 ....................................... 38 Figure 29: Occupied Private Dwellings, Chatham-Kent (1991-2006) ........................................... 39 Figure 30: Percentage of Occupied Private Dwellings by Dwelling Type ...................................... 39 Figure 31: Rate of Home ownership in Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006 ............................................. 40 Figure 32: Comparing Home Ownership Rates with Other Municipalities, 2006.............................. 40 Figure 33: Rate Home Ownership by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2006 ....................................... 41 Figure 34: Age of Homeowners in Chatham-Kent, 2001 and 2006 .............................................. 41 Figure 35: Age of Renters in Chatham-Kent, 2001 and 2006 .................................................... 42 Figure 36: Age of Renters and Homeowners in Chatham-Kent, 2006 .......................................... 42 Figure 37: Age of Total Housing Stock, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2006 .................................... 43 Figure 38: Age of Rental Housing Stock, Chatham-Kent Ontario, 2006 ........................................ 44 Figure 39: Age of Ownership Housing Stock, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2006.............................. 44 Figure 40: Comparison of the Condition of Dwellings in other Municipalities, 2006 ........................ 45 Figure 41: Housing Starts, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2010 ............................................................ 46 Figure 42: Housing Completions, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2005 .................................................... 46 Figure 43: Proportion of Owned Dwellings (as a Proportion of Total Dwellings) by Dwelling Type, Chatham-Kent, 1996, 2001, and 2006 ............................................................................... 53 Figure 44: Average Price of MPAC Sales by Dwelling Type, 2006-2011 ........................................ 54 Figure 45: Proportion of Rented Dwellings (as a Proportion of Total Dwellings) by Dwelling Type, Chatham-Kent, 1996, 2001, and 2006 ............................................................................... 58 Figure 46: Private Rental Apartment Vacancy Rates, Chatham-Kent CA, 2001-2010 ....................... 59 Figure 47: Occupied and Vacant One-Bedroom Apartment Units in Chatham-Kent by Rent Range, 2010 61 Figure 48: Occupied and Vacant Two-Bedroom Apartment Units by Rent Range, 2010 .................... 61 Figure 49: Private Apartment Average Rents by Bedroom Type, Chatham-Kent CA, 1999-2010 .......... 62
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Figure 50: Comparison of 2010 Private Apartment Average Rents for Chatham-Kent CA and Similar Municipalities ............................................................................................................ 63 Figure 51: Breakdown of the Public Housing Portfolio by Unit Size and by Mandate ....................... 68 Figure 52: Breakdown of the Public Housing Portfolio by Geographic Location ............................. 69 Figure 53: Trend in Number of Households on Social Housing Waiting List, 1998-2010..................... 71 Figure 54: Social Housing Waiting List by Household Type, December 2005 and May 2011 ................ 72 Figure 55: Social Housing Waiting List by Community, As of December 2005 and May 2011 ............. 72 Figure 56: Number of Households on Waiting List by Bedroom Type, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2010 ........ 73 Figure 57: Social Housing Vacancy Rates by Mandate, Quarterly, 2009-2010 ................................ 74 Figure 58: Number of Clients Served by the Salvation Army, 2006-2010 ...................................... 83 Figure 59: Income Deciles for Aboriginal Households, Chatham-Kent, 2005.................................. 88 Figure 60: Immigration Status and Period of Immigration, Chatham-Kent, 2006 ............................ 89 Figure 61: Income Deciles for Recent Immigrant Households, Chatham-Kent, 2006 ........................ 89 Figure 62: Distribution of Adults Ages 50 and Over, Chatham-Kent, 1996-2006 ............................. 90 Figure 63: Population Projections for Adults Ages 55 Years and Over, 2006-2031........................... 91 Figure 64: Housing Tenure of Seniors in Chatham-Kent, 1996-2006............................................ 92 Figure 65: Distribution of Income (In Constant 2005 Dollars) for Seniors Aged 65+, Chatham-Kent, 2000 and 2005 .................................................................................................................. 92 Figure 66: Senior Renters by Age and Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006 .................................. 93 Figure 67: Senior Homeowners by Age and Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006 ........................... 93 Figure 68: Distribution of Retirement Home Beds by Type, Chatham-Kent, 2004 and 2011 ............... 95 Figure 69: Average Rent by Retirement Home Bed Type, 2009-2011 .......................................... 96 Figure 70: Trends in Average Waiting Times for Long-Term Care Facilities, July 2009-July 2011 ........ 98 Figure 71: Demand and Supply for Seniors Housing ............................................................... 99 Figure 72: Mortgage Interest Rates, (1992=100), 1996-2010 ................................................... 103 Figure 73: Average and Median Income for Chatham-Kent Homeowners, 1995, 2000, and 2005 ........ 103 Figure 74: Distribution of Income for Homeowners Chatham-Kent, 2005 .................................... 104 Figure 75: Proportion of Income Spent on Ownership Costs, 2005 ............................................ 105 Figure 76: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Homeowners... 105 Figure 77: Percentage of Household Income Spent on Home Ownership Costs by Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006 ................................................................................................... 106 Figure 78: Comparison of Average Housing Cost to Affordable Housing Cost by Household Income Deciles, Chatham-Kent, 2011 ........................................................................................ 107 Figure 79: Average and Median Income for Chatham-Kent Renters, 1995, 2000 and 2005 ................ 108 Figure 80: Distribution of Income for Renters Chatham-Kent, 2005 .......................................... 109 Figure 81: Proportion of Income Spent on Rent ................................................................... 109 Figure 82: Gross Rental Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Renters .............. 110 Figure 83: Percentage of Household Income Spent on Rental Housing Costs by Income Decile, ChathamKent, 2006 ............................................................................................................... 111 Figure 84: Comparison of Average Market Rents (AMR) to Affordable Rents by Household Income Deciles, Chatham-Kent, 2011 ........................................................................................ 112 Figure 85: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Diverse Groups .................................................................................................................... 113 Figure 86: Rent Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Diverse Groups ... 114 Figure 87: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Household Characteristics ............................................................................................ 114 Figure 88: Rent Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Household Characteristics .......................................................................................................... 115 Figure 89: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income by Household Size 115 Figure 90: Rent Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income by Household Size ............... 116 Figure 91: Number of Work Hours Required to Maintain Affordable Rental Housing Costs at Minimum Wage, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2010 .................................................................................... 117
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1.0 Introduction
1.1 Study Background In June 2006, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent completed its first Housing Needs Assessment and Strategy. This study provided a comprehensive analysis of the current need and supply for all forms of housing, including affordable and special needs. The study also put forth a series of recommendations to address the immediate, short and long-term housing needs within the municipality. Following the completion of the final report, Council adopted several of the recommendations related to the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program (AHP). Since that time, the municipality has been engaged in a number of affordable housing program initiatives, in addition to some changes in the social housing portfolio. In 2008, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing approved the current ChathamKent Official Plan (OP). The municipality is required by the Ontario Planning Act to review their Official Plan every five years. As such, Council has directed administration to proceed with reviewing the Municipalitys growth management policies through a comprehensive review of the OP in light of current legislation, regulation and provincial policy. Watson & Associates Economists Ltd has been retained to undertake the first phase (technical analysis phase) of the Comprehensive Review. To assist in this review and provide adequate analysis with respect to affordable housing strategies and policies, the municipality initiated the completion of an update to the 2006 Housing Needs Assessment and Strategy (2006 Housing Study). This report forms the Chatham-Kent Housing Update (2011). 1.1.1 Provincial Housing Policy Changes Since the 2006 Housing Study, there have been some policy changes impacting housing across the Province of Ontario. Most importantly, the Strong Communities through Affordable Housing Act (2011) has been enacted. The Strong Communities through Affordable Housing Act repeals and replaces the Social Housing Reform Act (2000) with the Housing Services Act (2011) as well as includes amendments to the Planning Act and the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). The Housing Services Act was passed on May 4, 2011. Proclamation for the Housing Services Act was confirmed January 1, 2012. The Housing Services Act is a key part of Ontarios Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy (LTAHS). It is a goal of LTAHS to consolidate Ontarios housing and homelessness programs to give municipalities more flexibility in addressing their local needs. Amendments to Planning Act include requiring municipalities to establish policies allowing second units in new and existing developments, and adding affordable housing as a matter of provincial interest. 1
One of the new requirements for Service Managers is a requirement to have Housing and Homelessness Plans. These Plans must include an assessment of current and future housing needs; objectives and targets relating to housing needs; a description of measures proposed to meet objectives and targets; and a description of how progress towards meeting the objectives and targets will be measured. There is a requirement that The Plan must have a minimum 10-year horizon and is to be reviewed every five years. The Ontario Housing Policy Statement is intended to provide further direction to Service Managers to support the development of their plans. Policy directions include: ensuring a coordinated approach to delivering a system of housing and homelessness services; including strategies to reduce gaps (including short and longterm housing targets) and increase awareness and access to affordable and safe housing; providing measures to prevent homelessness and support people to stay in their homes; including the non-profit and private sector in planning; ensuring plans assess the needs of persons with disabilities, victims of domestic violence, Aboriginal persons (off-Reserve), and other local groups reflective of the evolving demographics of the community; and ensuring a commitment to improve the energy efficiency of existing and future publicly funding housing stock. 1.2 Study Purpose The purpose of this study is to provide the Municipality of Chatham-Kent with an analytical update to the 2006 Housing Study. It is also the aim of this study to provide a review of the 2006 Housing Actions and Recommendations, and to evaluate their current status and relevancy. Another goal of this study to put forth new and updated housing objectives/strategies and targets to be incorporated as appropriate into Municipal growth management policies including the Municipalitys Official Plan, scheduled to be updated in 2013. Importantly, it is intended that this study will set out the foundation for the development of the Municipalitys Housing and Homelessness Plans and ensure that provincial interests are addressed, specifically as outlined within the new Housing Services Act (2010).
2
1.3 Study Approach and Format The overall approach to this study includes the following tasks:
Update Statistical Analysis
Prepare Housing Needs Report
Review 2006 Housing Actions
Conduct Stakeholder Workshop
Prepare Housing Objectives and Measures
Prepare Preliminary Housing Plan
Update, where possible, the statistical data included in the 2006 Housing Study and provide an analysis of key trends and observations Prepare a Housing Needs Update Report Provide a review of the 2006 Housing Studys Housing Actions and Recommendations, and prepare new/updated housing objectives, targets and measures Conduct a workshop to engage stakeholders in developing new housing objectives, targets and measures Finalize housing objectives, targets, measures, and prepare cost/risk analysis Prepare a preliminary Housing Plan Report based on information gathered in tasks 1 to 5
Overall guidance and direction in completing this study was provided by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent Housing Services Division. Direction and collaboration was also provided Chatham-Kent Planning Services Division in order to avoid duplication of work and ensure a joint approach to the Official Plan Comprehensive Review. 1.3.1 Sources of Information The preparation of the Housing Update entailed incorporating and analyzing data and research from a number of sources. Research sources include: Obtained Statistics Canada data for 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006, and incorporated data into the analysis and custom tabulation data for 2006. Custom tabulation data from 2006 was obtained for the following geographies: Ontario, Chatham-Kent, Chatham, Blenheim, Dresden, Ridgetown, Tilbury, Wallaceburg, Wheatley, Bothwell, Charing Cross, Merlin, Mitchells Bay, Pain Court, and Thameseville. Additional data tables are provided in Appendix A. 3
Identified key informants in consultation with the Municipality and interviewed informants for information and insight into broad housing issues as appropriate. A list of key informants is in Appendix B. Conducted a survey of supportive and emergency housing providers in order to gain a thorough understanding of housing needs and assistance in formulating recommendations for strategies. A copy of the Supportive and Emergency Housing Survey is in Appendix C. Obtained additional information from various Municipal divisions (e.g. planning, housing services, employment and social services, senior services, and economic development) and other sources such as Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) data was obtained through the Finance Division. Incorporated household and population projections from Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. Prepared a comprehensive synopsis of the current and projected housing needs along the housing continuum. A description of the housing continuum approach is provided in section 1.4 below.
1.3.2 Study Area The study area is the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. The Municipality of ChathamKent was formed on January 1, 1998 amalgamating thirteen separate communities. This analysis is based primarily on the Municipality as a whole and, where information is available, the following communities: Primary Urban Areas Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Secondary Urban Areas Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchells Bay Pain Court Thamesville
The 2006 Housing Study did not include the area Native Reservations (Moraviantown Reserve and Walpole Island Reservation) as housing on Reserves is not a responsibility of the Service Manager. The current Official Plan Comprehensive Review, including population forecasts, however, does include the Moraviantown Reserve within its remaining rural area data. For the purposes of this study, the Moraviantown Reserve is included in the analysis. Walpole Island falls outside the municipal boundary and has therefore not been included (limited information is provided in Section 7.4).
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Figure 1: The Chatham-Kent Geographical Area
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Map of Chatham-Kent, 2011
In addition to the study area outlined above, information where available and where relevant has been provided for rural areas, the province of Ontario and other south western areas of the province (i.e. Lambton County, Bruce County and Windsor/Essex). 1.4 The Chatham-Kent Housing Continuum A range of housing options, including a diversity of housing type, tenure and affordability level, is needed to accommodate a range of needs and contribute to more healthy and complete communities. Housing provides individuals and families of all ages, income levels, abilities, and cultures a place to grow and call home. For the most part, the private market is able to respond and meet the needs of the majority of residents. For some, however, their needs cannot be met in the private sector and therefore rely on the assistance of the public sector. For a variety of reasons and at various stages of ones lifetime, many of us will be in need of housing with some form of supports whether through the provision of care or through financial assistance. Households earning low and moderate incomes, individuals requiring supports, persons in crisis or in transition, may all rely on the not-for-profit and public sector to meet their housing needs. There are a number of housing forms in Chatham-Kent aimed at meeting the diverse range of housing needs within the municipality. These housing forms are represented 5
below as a continuum of housing. Generally, as household income increases, and households move along the continuum from left to right, an increased number of housing opportunities become available. Importantly, households can move either way along the continuum based on changes in income, need for supports, unexpected circumstances etc. Further, in some cases households on fixed incomes will remain within a certain income level throughout most stages of their live. Supports may be needed by households within all housing forms, and at all income levels.
Figure 2: Chatham-Kent Housing Supply Continuum
Emergency and Transitional
Subsidized
Affordable (rental and ownership)
Private Rental
Ownership
Supports
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2.0 Demographic Profile

Changes in population and household characteristics, including changes in income, are important determinants to the overall changes in the demand for housing. The following section provides a demographic profile of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and highlights any changes in trends since the 2006 Housing Study. 2.1 Population Characteristics In 2006, Chatham-Kent had a population of 108,177 persons; an increase of 0.8% from 2001. This is a slower rate of growth compared with the Province (6.6%) as a whole. Surrounding areas such as Bruce County and Lambton County also experienced slower rates of growth compared to the Province at 2.3% and 1% respectively.
Table 1: Comparative Growth Rates throughout Chatham-Kent, 1986- 2006 Community Chatham-Kent Bruce County Lambton County Windsor-Essex Ontario Community Chatham-Kent Bruce County Lambton County Windsor-Essex Ontario 1986 106,379 58,848 124,592 316,362 9,101,694 1986-1991 3.0% 10.9% 3.5% 3.5% 10.8% Population 1991 1996 109,583 65,268 128,948 327,365 10,084,885 1991-1996 -0.2% 0.6% 0.0% 7.0% 6.6% 109,350 65,680 128,975 350,329 10,753,573 1996-2001 -1.8% -2.7% -1.6% 7.0% 6.1% 2001 107,341 63,892 126,971 374,975 11,410,046 2001-2006 0.8% 2.3% 1.0% 4.9% 6.6% 2006 108,177 65,349 128,204 393,402 12,160,282 1986-2006 1.7% 11.0% 2.9% 24.4% 33.6%
Percentage Increase/Decrease
Source: Statistics Canada; 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
Historically, the Municipality has had lower rates of population growth when compared to the Province as a whole.
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Figure 3: Comparative Growth Rates, 1986/1991 to 2001/2006, Chatham-Kent and Ontario

40.0% 35.0% 30.0%
33.6%
Growth Rate
25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% -5.0%

3.0%
-0.2%
10.8% 6.6% 6.1% 0.8% -1.8% 6.6% 1.7%
1986-1991
1991-1996
Chatham-Kent
1996-2001
2001-2006
Ontario
1986-2006
Source: Statistics Canada; 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
2.1.1 Trends in Population Growth by Community Chatham remains the largest community within the Municipality with a population of 46,863 in 2006; an increase of 4.9% from 2001. Chatham comprises almost half the population of Chatham-Kent at 43.3%. Wallaceburg remains the second largest community within the Municipality with a population of 10,723. Wallaceburg experienced a decline in population of 5.0% (567 persons) from 2001. Other urban areas to experience a decline in population include Dresden (143 persons or 5.4%), Ridgetown (210 persons or 6.1%), Blenheim (293 persons or 6.0%), Mitchells Bay (54 persons or 15.9%), and Bothwell (34 persons or 3.4%). In general, there has been little change in the proportional distribution of the population by community since 2001.
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Figure 4: Historical Population by Community (Percent of Total Population), 2001-2006

Percent of Total Population
45.0% 40.0% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0%
10.5%
20.0% 15.0%
4.6%
4.3% 3.2%
41.6%
50.0%
43.3%
3.0%
4.4%
2.5%
2.3%
2.6%
2.8%
10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
4.5%
9.9%
0.9%
0.9%
0.7%
0.7%
0.5%
0.3%
0.4%
0.3%
Community 2001 2006

Source: Statistics Canada; 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
Figure 5: Historical Population by Community (Absolute Numbers), 2001-2006

44,669
50,000 45,000 40,000 35,000
Population
30,000
25,000
15,000
10,723
46,863
20,000
4,917 4,624
3,453
3,243
4,672
4,855
11,290
2,647
2,504
1,002
10,000 5,000 0
2,745
3,057
968
719
762
0.3%
364
426
339
Community 2001 2006
By community, Pain Court (17.0%), Merlin (6.0%), Wheatley (11.4%), Bothwell (5.0%) and Chatham (4.9%) showed the greatest increase in population. Mitchells Bay had the greatest decline in population by 15.9%.
285
500
525
0.5%
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Figure 6: Change in Population by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006

20.0% 15.0%
10.0%
11.4% 4.9% 6.0% 5.0% 0.2% 0.8% 17.0%
Precent Change
5.0% 0.0% -5.0% -10.0% -15.0%

-20.0%
-6.0%
3.9%
-5.4%
-6.1%
-5.0%
-3.4%
-15.9%
Community
2.1.2 Trends in Age Distribution Changes in age distribution remain consistent with trends discussed in the 2006 Housing Study. In general, trends continue to show an aging of the population with increases in all population groups over the age of 45 years. The greatest increase is shown in population between 55 and 64 years. Also consistent with the 2006 Housing Study findings is a decline in population groups under the age of 34 years. One movement in population distribution by age is shown in the population group of 35 to 45 years where the proportion of the population has begun to decline; from 16.3% in 2001 to 13.9% in 2006. This may be a result of individuals and families moving outside the Municipality in search of employment opportunities given the economic challenges facing the area between the two Census periods. This aging of the population continues to point to the need to ensure an adequate supply and range of housing opportunities for seniors and support services for seniors within the Municipality. With the population of pre-retirees (i.e. baby boomers2) also continuing to grow, this suggests this trend will continue.
The baby boomer generation includes persons born between the years 1945 to 1964. In 2006, baby boomers were between the ages of 42 and 61 years.
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Figure 7: Trends in Age Distribution, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006

29.5% 28.6%
27.3%
35.0%
Percent of Total Population
22.6%
30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
25.4%
20.0%
17.2%
16.9%
16.3%
15.6%
13.9%
14.2%
14.7%
15.7%
10.4%
9.0%
8.9%
9.9%
12.2%
12.4%
7.9%
8.2%
0-19
20-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65-74
5.9%
Age Groups
1991 1996 2001 2006
Source: Statistics Canada; 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
2.1.3 Population Projections Population growth forecasts 2011-2031 are based on work conducted by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. Growth forecasts project that the population of ChathamKent will reach 118,100 by 2031; representing an increase in growth of 4.6% (or 5,200 persons) from 2006 to 2011, and 4.0% (or 4,500 persons) from 2011 to 2031.
Figure 8: Population Projections, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031
120,000
118,000 116,000 114,000 112,900 115,100
116,200
117,400
118,100
113,600
110,700
Population
111,800
112,900
113,600
112,000
110,000 108,000 106,000 108,600
109,200
104,000
102,000 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 Year Excluding Census Undercount
Including Census Undercount*
Source: Watson & Associates Economists Ltd., 2011 *Population Undercount estimated at approximatley 4%
6.3%
75+
7.1%
7.8%
8.0%
8.2%
11
The population over the age of 55 years is expected to reach 42,662 by 2031; representing 36% of the total population. The population under the age of nineteen is expected to remain relatively constant at about 22% of the total population. The 3555 age cohort is expected to decline in their proportion of the total population from about thirty percent in 2006 to twenty-four percent in 2031.
Figure 9: Projected Population by Age Group, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031
29.5%
35.0%
30.0%
28.2%
27.2%
26.4%
23.7%
24.1% 18.0%
22.8%
22.2%
22.3%
22.4%
20.3%
20.0%
Population Growth
20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
19.2%
19.6%
20.3%
25.0%
21.4%
21.6%
21.8%
23.7%
12.5%
2006
7.6%
2009
7.9%
2011
Years
8.0%
2021
9.2%
2031
0-18
19-34
35-54
55-75
75+
Source: Watson & Associates Economists Ltd., 2011 Note: Population figures include Census undercount of approximatley 4%
2.2 Household Characteristics The following sections provide a profile of local household characteristics and highlight the changes in household trends over time. 2.2.1 Trends in Household Growth The number of households in Chatham-Kent reached 43,670 in 2006. This represents an increase of 4.1% or 1,725 households from 2001 to 2006; showing a greater increase compared to the 1.5% growth experienced between 1996 and 2001. While the majority of households are located within the larger urban centres of Wallaceburg and Chatham, about 24% of households were located within the surrounding rural areas.
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Figure 10: Number of Households by Community, 2006

25,000 20,000
19,630
Number of Households
15,000
10,630
10,000 5,000
1,910 1,895 1,015 1,365 4,485 1,105 390 210 295 155 200
380
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulation 2006 Census
2.2.2 Trends in Household Size Household size in Chatham-Kent continues to decline reaching 2.4 persons per households in 2006; down from 2.5 in 2001.
Figure 11: Trends in Household Size, Chatham-Kent, 1986-2006
In addition, the number of one and two-person households 2.8 2.8 continues to increase while larger 2.7 2.7 household sizes (three or more 2.6 2.6 persons) have shown declines over 2.5 2.5 the past four Census periods. In 2.4 2.4 2006, 63% percent of households 2.3 were comprised of one and two2.2 persons. By comparison, in 1986 1991 1996 2001 2006 Ontario one and two-person Source: Statistics Canada, 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006 Census of Canada households comprise 56.1% of total households. These trends are a result of general trends such as aging of the population, lower birth rates, greater rates of family break-up, and movement of youth.
2.9
Household Size
13
These trends in declining household size and increasing number of one and two person households point to a need for dwelling types that accommodate smaller households.
Figure 12: Trends in Persons Household Size, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006
35
31.7 32.8
Percentage of Households
26.1
27.2
34.2
40
36.1
24.4
22.9
23.9
30
25.6
16.7
16.1
15 10
14.7
20
15.2
19.8
25
21.8
3.2
2.6
2.8
5 0 1 Person 2 Persons 1991 3 Persons 1996 2001 4-5 Persons 2006
6+ Persons
2.2.3 Trends in Household Type While showing a slight decline from 2001 to 2006, the majority of households remain family households at 70.8%. Importantly, Statics Canada defines a family as a household that is comprised of a married couple with or without children, a couple living in common law with or without children, or a lone parent living with one or more children.
2.3
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Figure 13: Trends in Historical Households by Household Type, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006

100%
21.10%
27.20%
28.30%
29.2%
Percent of Total Households
80% 60% 40% 20% 0% 1991 1996 Year Family 2001 Non-Family 2006
78.90%
72.80%
71.70%
70.8%
Source: Statistics Canada, 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006 Census of Canada
Looking more specifically at various household types, about 27% of households are comprised of single person households and almost ten percent are lone-parent families. One quarter of households are senior-led households (where someone over the age of 65 is the household maintainer). Also noteworthy is that 38.7% of households in Chatham-Kent in 2005 had one or more members of the household were experiencing activity limitations.
Figure 14: Households by Selected Household Types, Chatham-Kent, 2006
50.0%
40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Lone Parents

9.3%, 4,040
27.2%, 13,050
38.7% 16,920 3.6%, 12,550 27.2% 11,860 25.0% 10,900
2.9% 1,275
3.6% 1,575
0.6% 260
2.2% 945
Couples with Children
Couples without Children
Multiple Family
Single Person
Youth Led Senior Led Recent Aboriginal One or Household Household Immigrant More (<25 Years) (>65 Years) Members of Household Have Activity Limitations
Selected Household Characteristics

Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 2006
2.2.4 Household Projections Based on the household projections developed by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. (2011), it is anticipated that the number of households will reach 48,230 by 2031; a total of 4,565 new units from 2006 to 2031; this represents an average annual increase of 183 units/year. Of these anticipated new units 3,390 would be low 15
density (136 units/year), 730 medium density (29 units/year), and 445 high density (18 units/year).
60,000 50,000
Households
Figure 15: Household Projections, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031

43,665
6,670 2,165
44,455
6,670 2,175
45,430
6,715 2,340
46,505
6,830 2,550
47,405
6,965 2,720
48,205 7,070 2,890
40,000
30,000 20,000
10,000 0 34,830 35,610 36,375
37,125
37,720
38,245
2006
2011
2016
Year
2021
2026
2031
Low Density
Medium Density
High Density
Source: Watson & Associates Economists Ltd., 2011
2.3 Economic Indicators 2.3.1 Economic Overview Overall, unemployment rates improved within Chatham-Kent from 2001 to 2006. With the exception of Wheatley, Thamesville, Mitchells Bay and Bothwell, all communities showed a decline in unemployment from 2001 to 2006. Unemployment figures provided by Chatham-Kent Economic Development show that unemployment rates peaked in October of 2009 at 15.2%, and remained above 10% for most of 2009-2011. In the fall of 2011, the rate started to decline and was at 8.4% as of September 20113. The increase in the unemployment rate was largely due to high turnover in the automotive manufacturing sector. Much of this sector was dependant on the US auto industry, and Chatham-Kent was hit hard with supply chain issues. While there has been some turnover in employment, the new jobs created tend to be in the service industry and are not the higher paying manufacturing jobs.
Estimated monthly labour market indicators for Economic Region 570 (Chatham-Kent, Windsor-Essex, and Sarnia-Lambton). Data estimated and seasonally adjusted by the Centre for Spatial Economics.
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Figure 16: Unemployment Rates by Community, Chatham-Kent, (2001-2006)

14.5%
16.0% 14.0% 12.0% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0%
11.2%
14.5%
Unemployment Rate
9.5%
7.1% 9.3%
9.1% 7.5%
8.3%
9.4%
9.9%
7.1% 5.0%
7.0% 5.7%
6.8%
8.3% 7.2%
7.8%
6.0%
5.4% 6.0%
5.8%
4.0%
Community 2001 2006
2.3.2 Labour Force Activity Many of the major public sector employers listed in the 2006 Housing Study remain top employers in 2011. The Lambton-Kent School board has surpassed the Municipality as the top public sector employer. Also of note is that the Southwestern Regional Centre (mental health institution), with 650 jobs in 2006, has since closed.
Table 2: Major Public and Private Sector Employers, Chatham-Kent Major Employers - Public Sector Company Lambton-Kent School Board Municipality of Chatham-Kent Chatham-Kent Health Alliance St. Clair Catholic School Board Service Canada Income Security Employment 2,300 1,800 1,300 500 275
Chatham-Kent Integrated Services 175 University of Guelph, Ridgetown 170 Campus Major Employers - Private Sector Company Union Gas Limited YA Canada Martinrea Fabco Metallic Canada Corp. TransCom MSSC KSR International Co. Employment 706 460 400 350 271 250
2.9%
4.4%
6.1% 6.4%
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Table 2: Major Public and Private Sector Employers, Chatham-Kent Pioneer Hi-Bread Limited: (Dupont Agriculture and Nutrition) CanGro Foods Ltd. 186 + 100 Seasonal 168 + 295 Seasonal
Source: Chatham-Kent Economic Development Services, 2011
By community, approximately 40% of the labour force in Chatham-Kent is located in Chatham; this remains consistent with trends identified in the 2006 Housing Study. In general, the distribution of labour force within the Municipality has not experienced substantial change.
Table 3: Labour Force Activity by Community, 2006 Community Chatham Dresden Wallaceburg Wheatley Tilbury Ridgetown Blenheim Thamesville Merlin Mitchell's Bay Bothwell Pain Court Charing Cross Chatham-Kent 2006 # 22,521 1,316 5,242 1,640 2,407 1,686 2,465 419 456 189 449 343 243 57,240 % 39.3% 2.3% 9.2% 2.9% 4.2% 2.9% 4.3% 0.7% 0.8% 0.3% 0.8% 0.6% 0.4% 100.0%
Source: Statistics Canada; 2006 Census of Canada
Although showing a decline in proportion of the labour force, manufacturing remains the largest employment industry within the Municipality. The distribution of labour force activity by industry has not seen considerable change over the 2001 to 2006 period. Retail trade, health care and social assistance, accommodation and food services remain among the top employers. Agriculture and construction have both experienced slight declines, of 1.3% and 0.5% respectively, in their proportion of the labour force. The agriculture sector in Chatham-Kent, however, does remain strong with approximately 25% of the Municipalitys GDP coming from agribusiness. Education services, other services, transportation and warehousing, and 18
administrative and support/waste management/remediation services have all experienced slight increases in their proportion of the labour force.
Table 4: Labour Force Activity by Industry, Chatham-Kent, 1996-2006 Industry Sector Manufacturing Retail trade Healthcare and social assistance Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting Accommodation and food services Construction Other services (except public administration) Educational services Transportation and warehousing Wholesale trade Public administration Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services Professional, scientific and technical services Finance and insurance Arts, entertainment and recreation Utilities Industry - Not applicable Information and cultural industries Real estate and rental and leasing Mining and oil and gas extraction Management of companies and enterprises All industries 55,515 730 105 1,570 1,115 1,410 1,130 1996 # 13,390 6,555 5,555 5,040 3,445 2,455 3,760 2,845 1,840 2,655 1,915 % 24.1% 11.8% 10.0% 9.1% 6.2% 4.4% 6.8% 5.1% 3.3% 4.8% 3.4% 0.0% 2.5% 2.0% 0.0% 2.8% 2.0% 0.0% 1.3% 0.2% 0.0% 100.0% 2001 # 12,880 6,095 5,330 4,590 3,795 2,925 2,605 2,490 2,410 2,305 1,880 1,645 1,405 1,285 820 810 755 750 675 115 20 55,585 % 23.2% 11.0% 9.6% 8.3% 6.8% 5.3% 4.7% 4.5% 4.3% 4.1% 3.4% 3.0% 2.5% 2.3% 1.5% 1.5% 1.4% 1.3% 1.2% 0.2% 0.0% 100.0% 2006 # 11,780 6,610 5,310 4,010 3,535 2,755 3,060 2,870 2,965 2,240 1,985 3,295 1,370 1,310 1,035 925 710 620 695 130 30 57,240 % 20.6% 11.5% 9.3% 7.0% 6.2% 4.8% 5.3% 5.0% 5.2% 3.9% 3.5% 5.8% 2.4% 2.3% 1.8% 1.6% 1.2% 1.1% 1.2% 0.2% 0.1% 100.0%
Source: Statistics Canada; 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
Full-time employment has seen an increase over the 2001 to 2006 period of approximately 1,200 persons. The number of part-time employees continues to decline from 1991 rates and declined by about 600 persons between 2001 and 2006. This can be seen as a positive trend for the Municipality as full-time employment generally means higher wages and greater job security.
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Figure 17: Trends in Full-time and Part Year or Part-time Employment, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006
35,000 30,000
30,165 27,705 29,625 26,320 32,180 25,515
30,960 25,905
Number of Workers
25,000 20,000 15,000
10,000
5,000 0
1991
1996
Full Year Full-time
2001
Part Year or Part-time
2006
2.4 Income Analysis Income levels are a key indicator when assessing the demand for housing. The following sections examine current trends in household income and highlight changes over time in income levels and wage rates across the Municipality. 2.4.1 Trends in Household Income The 2006 Housing Study reported an average household income of $55,559 based on the 2001 Census. The average household income increased by 29.3% to $62,248/year based on the 2006 Census. While this income level remains below both provincial and national levels, the Municipality did experience a greater increase in average income over the 2000 to 2005 period compared to the province and Canada as a whole.
20
Figure 18: Comparison of Average Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario and Canada, 19902005
$90,000
$66,836 $77,967
$52,225
Average Household Income
$50,000 $40,000 $30,000

$20,000
$10,000 $0 1990
Chatham-Kent
$42,990
$60,000
$46,137
1995
Ontario
$48,552
$70,000
$48,141
$54,291
$55,559
2000
Canada
$58,360
$62,248
$80,000
2005
Table 5: Comparison of Average Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario & Canada, 1990-2005 Community Chatham-Kent Ontario Canada Average Household Income 1990 $42,990 $52,225 $46,137 1995 $48,141 $54,291 $48,552 2000 $55,559 $66,836 $58,360 2005 $62,248 $77,967 $62,248 1990-1995 12.0% 4.0% 5.2% Percent Change 1995-2000 15.4% 23.1% 20.2% 2000-2005 12.0% 16.7% 6.7%
By community, Pain Court had the highest average household income, followed by Merlin and Wheatley. Generally, the more rural areas had comparatively higher average household incomes compared with more urban areas. With the exception of the Moravian Reserve, which had an average household income of $38,524, Wallaceburg had the lowest average household income at $52,419. These income trends by community are consistent with findings from the 2006 Housing Study.
$62,248
21
Figure 19: Comparison of Average Household Income by Community and Ontario, 2005 Incomes
$69,366
$58,977
$60,305
$60,634
$61,169
$66,259
$90,000 $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
$56,181
$58,027
$52,419
$53,856
$38,524
$77,967
$62,248
$73,766
$68,368
$74,443
Chatham-Kent Average Household Income
Median household income, while showing an increase, has not increased at the same rate as the average household income, suggesting incomes of lower income households are not keeping pace with incomes of higher income households. Overall, median household income increased by 9.8% from 2000 to 2005. This is consistent with national (9.3%) trends but lower than provincial trends (12.7%). The median household income in 2005 was $51,081.
$84,452
22
Figure 20: Comparison of Median Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario and Canada, 19902005
$53,626
$70,000
$44,432
$60,455
$45,155
$39,013
Median Household Income
$50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0
$37,811
1990 Chatham-Kent
$39,048
1995 Ontario
$40,209
$46,517
$60,000
2000 Canada
$46,752
2005
Table 6: Comparison of Median Household Income, Chatham-Kent, Ontario and Canada, 19902005 Community Chatham-Kent Ontario Canada Median Household Income 1990 $37,811 $44,432 $39,013 1995 $39,048 $45,155 $40,209 2000 $46,517 $53,626 $46,752 2005 $51,081 $60,455 $51,081 1990-1995 3.3% 1.6% 3.1% Percent Change 1995-2000 19.1% 18.8% 16.3% 2000-2005 9.8% 12.7% 9.3%
$51,081
$51,081
23
Figure 21: Comparison of Median Household Income by Community and Ontario, 2005 Incomes
$61,484
$61,809 $71,296
Median Household Income
$48,990
$48,467
$48,846
$60,000
12.6% 12.1%
11.4%
11.5%
11.0%
11.1%
11.6% 11.0%
$20,000
8.9%
8.6%
8.6% 8.7%
6.2% 7.2%
6.6%
5.8% 5.5%
4.7% 5.6%
6.0%
15.0% $10,000
4.0%
5.0% 0.0%
Median household income
Chatham-Kent Median Household Income
1995
2000
2005
Overall, households in Chatham-Kent are earning more compared to the 2006 Housing Study. There are fewer households earning less than $30,000 in 2005 compared with 2000. In addition, the number of households earning more than $80,000 has increased. The greatest increase in shown in households earning more than $100,000; which increased by about 5% from 2000 to 2005. While this is a positive trend for the Municipality, there were still just over one-quarter of households earning less than $30,000 and about half were earning less than $50,000 in 2005. This again suggests a polarization of incomes since the previous Census period.
3.3% 4.0%
10.0%
$0
4.8%
7.1% 11.3%
20.0%
13.7% 11.6%
$30,000
16.5% 13.1%
9.9% 9.8%
24
16.1%
$40,000 25.0%
$29,760
30.0% $50,000
26.3%
$42,069
$42,769
$43,454
35.0%
$46,750
$70,000
$49,262
$53,187
$80,000 40.0%
36.0% 30.2% $53,894
$59,384
$60,455
$51,081
Figure 22: Percentage Change of Household Income Groups, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006
Source: Statistics Canada, Cat. No. 97-563-XCB2006047
2.4.2 Household Income by Income Range In the 2006 Housing Study, household income ranges were used to compare household income over time. As shown below, the proportion of households in the lower income ranges (i.e. earning less than $30,000) has declined by about ten percent. Despite this significant decline, over one-quarter of households still earned less than $30,000 in 2005. The largest proportional increase in income was seen in the households earning over $100,000; increasing from 11.3% in 2000 to 16.1% in 2005.
25
Figure 23: Comparison of 1995, 2000 and 2005 Income from Chatham-Kent
40.0%
30.0%
16.5% 13.1%
12.6% 12.1%
11.4%
11.5%
11.0%
11.1%
11.6% 11.0%
8.9%
8.6%
8.6% 8.7%
6.2% 7.2%
6.6%
15.0%
5.8% 5.5%
4.7% 5.6%
6.0%
4.0%
5.0% 0.0%
1995
2000
2005
2.4.3 Household Income by Decile While the figures for the average and median household incomes provide a general sense of household income, looking at the distribution of income provides greater detail of a households economic capability. Income deciles divide the total universe (i.e. households) into ten equal portions of income groups and take into account context of location and local standards of living. For example, ten percent of households in Chatham-Kent earned $15,845 or less in 2005 and, therefore, fall within the first income decile. In 2005, the 10th decile represents households earning more than $116,724. In Chatham-Kent each decile represents about 4,380 households.
3.3% 4.0%
10.0%
4.8%
7.1% 11.3%
20.0%
13.7% 11.6%
9.9% 9.8%
26
16.1%
25.0%
26.3%
35.0%
36.0% 30.2%
Table 7: Household Income Deciles, Chatham-Kent, 2006 # of Decile Households 1st decile ($15,845 and under) 4,400 2nd decile ($15,846-$24,377) 3rd decile ($24,378-$33,134) 4th decile ($33,135-$41,853) 5th decile ($41,854-$51,082) 6th decile ($51,083-$62,403) 7th decile ($62,404-$75,258) 8th decile ($75,259-$91,703) 9th decile ($91,704-$116,723) 10th decile ($116,724+) Total Households 4,380 4,365 4,365 4,360 4,380 4,360 4,350 4,365 4,355 43,670
With the exception of senior-led households, the following household groups had greater proportion of households within the lower income deciles (i.e. first to third decile) in 2005 compared to the Municipality as a whole. Almost half (48.4%) of all single person households, for example, were earning less than $24,377 in 2005. Youth led households (46.6%), lone parent families (31.0%), and Aboriginal households (27.5%) also had large proportions in the first and second income deciles.
27
Figure 24: Household Income Deciles by Selected Household Characteristics, Chatham-Kent, 2005
Youth Led (<25 years)
29.5%
17.1%
15.2%
11.7%
9.2%
8.3% 3.2% 1.3% 4.1% 0.6%
One person only
25.9%
22.5%
15.2%
11.0%
10.0%
7.2% 3.8% 1.3% 2.6% 0.5%
Household Type
Primary maintainer is aboriginal
16.9%
10.6%
19.0%
6.9%
10.1%
9.0%
5.8%
8.5%
6.9% 6.3%
Lone parents
14.0%
17.0%
16.1%
12.9%
10.8%
10.1%
7.4%
6.9% 3.6% 1.2%
One or more members of household have activity limitations
13.8%
13.7%
12.5%
11.2%
10.5%
8.9%
8.1%
7.4%
7.3%
6.6%
Recent Immigrant
13.5%
3.8%
15.4%
9.6%
13.5%
9.6%
17.3%
5.8%
9.6% 3.8%
Senior Led (>65 Years)
8.4%
19.3%
17.4%
13.1%
12.1%
9.6%
6.9% 6.1% 4.0% 3.1%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
$15,845 and under $41,854 - $51,082 $91,704-$116,723
Percent of Households $15,846 - $24,377 $24,378 - $33,134 $51,083 - $62,403 $62,404-$75,258 $116,724+
$33,135 - $41,853 $75,259 - $91,703
By age, the following Figure illustrates that generally seniors and youth have a greater proportion of households in the lower income deciles. Seniors, for example, over the age of 65 had a higher proportion of households within the first to third income deciles (i.e. earning less than $33,134/year). Almost half of youth household maintainers between the ages of 15 and 24 years were earning less than $24,377 in 2005. Households where the primary household maintainer was between the ages of 45 and 54 years by comparison had a greater proportion of households in the higher income deciles.
28
Figure 25: Household Income Deciles by Age of Primary Household Maintainer, Chatham-Kent, 2005
75 and over 10.1% 25.5% 19.2% 11.9% 10.8% 8.0% 5.7% 3.5% 2.4% 2.9%
Age of Primary Household Maintainer
65-74
6.9%
13.4%
15.7%
14.3%
13.3%
11.1%
8.0%
8.6%
5.0% 3.8%
55-64
13.0%
7.1%
7.3%
10.0%
9.3%
10.8%
10.9%
9.9%
9.8%
11.9%
45-54
9.0%
6.1%
5.5%
6.8%
8.6%
8.5%
9.6%
12.0%
14.8%
19.4%
35-44
7.0%
6.4%
6.6%
8.7%
8.5%
12.2%
11.4%
12.6%
14.2%
12.4%
25-34
10.3%
6.4%
11.1%
11.0%
11.8%
9.7%
15.3%
11.7%
9.6%
3.0%
15-25
29.5%
17.1%
15.2%
11.7%
9.2%
8.3%
3.2%4.1%0.6% 1.3%
0%
10%
20%
30% $15,846 - $24,377 $62,404-$75,258
40%
50% Title $24,378 - $33,134 $75,259 - $91,703
60%
70% $33,135 - $41,853 $91,704-$116,723
80%
90%
100%
$15,845 and under $51,083 - $62,403
$41,854 - $51,082 $116,724+
2.4.4 Trends in Minimum Wage and Social Assistance Income supports are provided through Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Shelter allowances for each of these programs were set in 1995 and as of 2004 have seen modest increases. Currently the shelter allowance under OW for a single individual is $409/month, an increase of $76/month from 2005. For a single individual under the ODSP program the rate for a single person is currently $474/month, an increase of $47/month since 2005.
Table 8: Ontario Works Rates and Shelter Allowance Rates for ODSP Clients ODSP Maximum OW Maximum Benefit Unit Monthly Shelter Monthly Shelter Size Allowance Allowance 1 2 3 4 5 $474 $745 $807 $877 $946 $409 $572 $636 $696 $846
6 or more $980 $882 Source: Ontario Works Act 1997, Amended 2011; Ontario Disability Support Program, Directive 6.2: Shelter Calculation. November 2011
29
Minimum wage rates have also seen an increase over the last few years from $7.75 in 2006 to the current rate of $10.25.
Table 9: Historical Overview of Ontario Minimum Wage Rates Period Jan. 1995 - Jan. 31, 2004 Feb. 1, 2004 - Jan. 31, 2005 Feb. 1, 2005 - Jan. 31, 2006 Feb. 1, 2006 - Jan. 31, 2007 Feb. 1, 2007 - Mar. 31, 2008 Mar. 31, 2008 - Mar. 31, 2009 Mar. 31, 2009 December 2011 Minimum Wage $6.95 $7.15 $7.45 $7.75 $8.00 $8.75 $10.25
Source: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, Minimum Wage Database, 2011
Ontario Works (OW) caseload figures indicate an increasing number of persons are in need of income support. The average caseload in 2010 reached a high of 3,445; an increase of over 1,000 cases since 2006. Current, figures suggest an even higher average caseload for 2011. Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) participants have also steadily increased from 2006. In 2010, the average caseload was 3,353; an increase of about 1,000 participants. Similar to OW trends, ODSP figures show an increase again for this current year.
Table 10: Ontario Works Average Number of Recipients, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2010 2006 Ontario Works Recipients 2,375 2007 2,477 2008 2,683 2009 3,126 2010 3,445 2011(YTD) 3,386
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent Ontario Works, 2011
Table 11: Average Caseload Numbers for ODSP, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2011 2006 ODSP Participants 2,315 2007 2,421 2008 263 2009 3,032 2010 3,353 2011 (YTD) 3,323
Source: Ministry of Community Social Services, 2011
By comparison, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent has a greater proportion of its residents receiving OW and ODSP when compared to other areas in Southwestern Ontario.
30
Figure 26: Proportion of Population Receiving OW and ODSP, South West Region, 2011
5.8% 4.9%
7.0%
5.2%
Percent of Population
6.0% 5.0%
2.8%
4.0%
3.9%
3.8% 3.2%
3.8% 3.8%
5.0% 2.9% 3.3%

1.5% 2.5% 3.6%
1.7%
2.0% 1.0% 0.0%
1.5%
3.0%
2.7%
4.0%
3.3%
South West Region Percent of Population receiving OW Percent of Population receiving ODSP
Source: Municipality ofChatham-Kent, Ontario Works Division, 2011
Staff at Ontario Works indicate that the increase in caseload is largely a result of the recent economic downturn. Many individuals and families who were eligible for employment insurance have seen this run out and are now in need of Ontario Works. In addition, numbers continue to increase as individuals and families who may have been laid-off two years ago are now running out of savings and are in need of social assistance. Staff also indicate that they have seen a greater increase in the number of single persons in need of assistance where families and sole support parents have not seen as great an increase. Part of this is due to the changes in support for children which is now taken out of Ontario Works and provided directly to families through the Ontario Child Support Benefits.
31
Figure 27: Chatham-Kent Ontario Works Caseload Composition, 2008-2011

50.4% 48.5%
60.0%
Percent of Population
37.0%
50.0% 40.0% 30.0%

8.4%
39.5%
54.0%
32.9%
56%
8.5%
8.7%
20.0% 10.0% 0.0%

3.6%
4.1%
4.4%
2008 Average
2009 Average
2010 Average
2011 Average
Couple
Couple with Dependents
Single
Sole Support
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Ontario Works Division, 2011
2.4.5 Trends in Wage Rates The following Figure compares average wage rates by occupation for 2004 and 2010. These rates are based on Human Resources Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) employment reports for the Windsor Management Area (including Essex County and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent).
5%
9%
31%
32
Table 12: Average Wage Rates by Occupation, Windsor-Sarnia Area4, 2004 and 2010 Wages Occupational Title Registered Nurse Elementary School and Kindergarten Teachers Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics (Except Textile) Electricians (Except Industrial and Power System) Carpenters Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants Community and Social Service Workers Welders and Related Machine Operators Secretaries (Except Legal and Medical) Metalworking Machine Operators Machinists and Machining and Tooling Inspectors Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers Machining Tool Operators Truck Drivers Automotive Service Technicians, Truck Mechanics and Mechanical Repairers Retail Trade Managers General Office Clerks Early Childhood Educators and Assistants Plastics Processing Machine Operators Material Handlers Delivery and Courier Service Drivers Other Labourers in Processing, Manufacturing and Utilities Receptionists and Switchboard Operators Customer Service, Information and Related Clerks Cashiers Cooks Retail Salespersons and Sales Clerks Harvesting Labourers Food and Beverage Servers Food Counter Attendants, Kitchen Helpers and Related Occupations 2004 Average Wage $/hr $26.55 $24.70 $26.20 $22.40 $21.50 $18.55 $19.85 $17.20 $17.45 $16.85 $19.05 $17.00 $16.90 $16.60 $15.55 $13.75 $14.35 $14.95 $13.15 $12.95 $12.60 $13.55 $12.50 $11.10 $9.70 $10.10 $10.60 $9.60 $8.40 $9.35 2010 Average Wage $/hr $33.34 $31.17 $29.62 $29.51 $26.05 $22.20 $22.04 $21.74 $20.17 $19.66 $19.04 $18.69 $18.68 $18.19 $17.66 $16.62 $16.12 $15.75 $15.38 $15.36 $14.39 $14.14 $13.79 $13.75 $13.48 $13.45 $13.21 $13.04 $12.28 $12.26 % Increase in Wage Rates 25.6% 26.2% 13.1% 31.7% 21.2% 19.7% 11.0% 26.4% 15.6% 16.7% -0.1% 9.9% 10.5% 9.6% 13.6% 20.9% 12.3% 5.4% 17.0% 18.6% 14.2% 4.4% 10.3% 23.9% 39.0% 33.2% 24.6% 35.8% 46.2% 31.1% 7.3%
Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance Labourers $11.35 $12.18 Source: HRSDC, Windsor-Sarnia Area Wage Report, 2011 Note: Windsor-Sarnia Area Includes Essex County and Chatham-Kent
Include Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
33
2.4.6 Incidence of Low Income As identified in the 2006 Housing Study, the incidence of low income as reported by Statistics Canada is an important indicator of housing affordability. Statistics Canada uses low income cut-offs (LICO) to identify the incidence of lowincome families and singles (i.e. families and singles living below the poverty line) within a community. Statistics Canada defines low income cut-off as: Income levels at which families or unattached individuals spend 20% more than average on food, shelter and clothing. Statistics Canada provides a low-income cut-off by community size and by the number of persons per household. For a community with a population between 100,000 to 499,999 the low income cut-offs (before tax) in 2005 are defined as follows: oneperson is $17,906, two-person is $22,290, three-person is $27,403, four-person is $33,272, five person is $37,735, six person is $42,561, and seven or more person households is $47,384. The incidence of low income in Chatham-Kent was 11.9% in 2005; a decline of 1.3% from 2000. The incidence of low income is slightly below the provincial average of 14.7%. The incidence of low income for both families and singles has declined by 0.5% and 4.2% respectively between 2000 and 2005. The highest rates of low income are found in Chatham (15.6%), Dresden (15.9%), and Wallaceburg (14.8%).
34
Table 13: Incidence of Low Income, by Community, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2006
Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Chatham-Kent Ontario Total Families 1,334 12,556 701 920 1,363 3,080 844 264 137 231 92 156 266 31,130 3,335,250 Low Income Families 124 1,620 87 59 94 376 40 12 11 0 0 14 10 2,957 390,224 % 9.3% 12.9% 12.4% 6.4% 6.9% 12.2% 4.7% 4.5% 8.0% 0.0% 0.0% 9.1% 3.8% 9.5% 11.7% Total Single Individuals 554 6,347 328 482 577 1,395 285 137 35 58 40 49 119 13,320 1,432,705 Low Income Single Individuals 102 1,764 81 105 108 431 56 24 12 8 0 9 24 3,836 488,552 % 18.5% 27.8% 24.6% 21.7% 18.8% 30.9% 19.6% 17.5% 34.6% 13.6% 0.0% 18.1% 20.4% 28.8% 34.1% Total Population in Households 4,505 43,155 2,424 3,157 4,743 10,498 3,031 967 425 752 281 525 910 105,945 11,926,140 Total Low Income Population 482 6,732 385 272 417 1,554 288 87 41 0 0 48 39 12,607 1,753,143 % 10.7% 15.6% 15.9% 8.6% 8.8% 14.8% 9.5% 9.0% 9.7% 0.0% 0.0% 9.1% 4.3% 11.9% 14.7%
2.5 Summary of Demographic Profile Population Increases Following a Decline As reported in the 2006 Housing Study, the population of the Municipality declined between the 1996 and 2001 Census periods. The 2006 Census shows a 0.8% increase; reaching a population of 108,177. By community, Pain Court, Merlin, Wheatley, Bothwell and Chatham showed the greatest increase in population. Mitchells Bay had the greatest proportional decline in population at 15.9%. Forecasts anticipate the population of Chatham-Kent will grow steadily over the next twenty years reaching 118,100 by 2031; an overall increase of 4.6% from 2006. Growth in Seniors Population Anticipated to Continue The population over the age of 55 years is expected to reach 42,662 by 2031; representing 36% of the total population. The population over the age of 75 years is expected to represent 12.5% of the population by 2031. A range of housing options and support services will be needed to accommodate the senior population in Chatham-Kent over the next twenty years. Household Composition Continues to Diversify The number of one and two-person households reached 63.3% of all households in 2005. Household type also shows signs of diversification as the number of non-family households increased to almost thirty percent in 2005. 35
Unemployment Rate Higher than Average in Area Recent unemployment figures, provided by Chatham-Kent Economic Development, show that unemployment rates peaked in October of 2009 at 15.2%, and are at 11.5% as of April 2011. Data for the Windsor Sarnia5 area show unemployment rates at 14.9% in June of 2011 and 12.9% as of July 2011. This is higher than the provincial unemployment rate of about 7.7% (June 2011). The increase in the unemployment rate is largely due to high turnover in the automotive manufacturing sector. Much of this sector was dependant on the US auto industry, and Chatham-Kent was hit hard with supply chain issues. While there has been some turnover in employment, the new jobs created tend to be in the service industry which may not pay as much as manufacturing jobs. Average and Median Household Income Remains below Provincial Average While showing increases in income over the past two Census periods, the average income in Chatham-Kent ($62,248) remained below the provincial average ($77,967) in 2005. Rates of increase are also not keeping up with provincial averages (although are increasing at a greater rate when compared to Canada as a whole). From 2000 to 2005 the median household income for the province increased by 12.7% compared to 9.8% for the Municipality. One-fifth of Households earned Less than $25,000 in 2005 Based on income distribution data, in 2005, twenty percent of households were earning less than $24,377 in 2005. Fifty percent of households were earning less than $51,082. Some Population Groups Experiencing Great Affordability Challenges Single persons, youth, lone-parent families, and Aboriginal households all had a greater than average proportion of households in the lower income deciles (i.e. first to third decile) earning less than $33,134 in 2005. Number of Households in Receipt of Social Assistance has Increased The average caseload Employment and Social Assistance in 2010 reached a high of 3,445; an increase of over 1,000 cases from 2006. Current, figures suggest an even higher average caseload for 2011. Ontario Disability Support Program participants have also steadily increased from 2006. In 2010, the average caseload was 3,353; an increase of about 1,000 participants. Similar to Social Assistance trends, ODSP figures show an increase again for this current year. Employment and Social Services staff indicate that the increase in caseload is largely a result of the recent economic downturn. Many individuals and families who were eligible for employment insurance have seen this run out and are now in need of social assistance. In addition, numbers continue to increase as individuals and
5
Windsor Sarnia area includes Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
36
families who may have been laid-off two years ago are now running out of savings and are now in need of social assistance.
37
3.0 Existing Housing Supply

The following sections provide an overview of the current housing supply as well as changes in this supply over time. 3.1 Trends in Dwelling Types Single detached dwellings have remained the predominant housing form in the Municipality with only a slight decline from 2001 of 0.4%. The proportion of apartments has increased by 2% while the proportion of row houses has declined by 0.9%. The proportion of semi-detached dwellings remained relatively the same with a slight increase of 0.4%.
Figure 28: Occupied Private Dwellings, Chatham-Kent, 2001 and 2006
2001
Apartment, Other, 1.5% 15.2%
Row House, 4.3% SemiDetached, 2.5% Apartment, 17.2% Row House, 3.4% SemiDetached, 2.9%
2006
Other , 0.6%
Single Detached, 76.4%

Single Detached, 76.0%

Overall, the number of dwellings increased by about 1,600 from 2001 to 2006. Most of this increase was in single detached dwellings (1,020); there was also an increase in semis (200). Apartments also experienced an increase (1,105 in total units); most of these were in apartments with less than five storeys (865 units). There was a decline of about 335 row houses. The cause of these changes is likely in large part due to changes in Statistics Canada enumeration process which have impacted the historical comparability of the structural type of dwelling variable. In general these changes have resulted in decreases in the share of single detached dwellings and increases in the share of apartments. Therefore it is possible that units counted as row houses in the 2001 Census were counted as apartments with fewer than five storeys in the 2006 Census. Municipal Staff have indicated that they are not aware of any large demolitions or conversion projects that may have resulted in these changes. Further, in looking at building permit data (Section 3.4.3 below), there were virtually no building permits issued over the past nine years for apartments.
38
Figure 29: Occupied Private Dwellings, Chatham-Kent (1991-2006)

35,000 30,000
Number of Dwellings
25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000

6,380
6,835
6,795
32,070
29,725
31,400
33,090
1,065
1,190
1,275
1,505
1,815
1,060
360
625
840
Single Detached
Semi-Detached
1991 1996
Row House
2001
Apartment
2006
Other
So urce: Statistics Canada; 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
By community, more urban areas such as Chatham and Wallaceburg have a greater mix of housing types while more rural areas have a greater proportion of singledetached dwellings. These trends are consistent with findings from the 2006 Housing Study. Also of note is that areas with higher average household incomes such as Merlin and Wheatley also show greater proportion of single-detached dwellings.
Figure 30: Percentage of Occupied Private Dwellings by Dwelling Type and by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2006
91.4%
84.1% 86.4% 87.9% 97.5%
240
0.0% 3.0%
5.4% 90.1%
5,000
% of Occupied Private Dwellings
76.9%
76.0%
76.0%
77.1%
80% 60%
17.2%
15.1%
14.0%
14.0%
13.4%
15.5%
40% 20% 0%
75.7%
77.2%
100%
1,265
1,480
7,485
8.6%
3.0% 7.0%
2.3% 7.0%
8.3%
1.8% 5.7%
3.6% 4.6%
6.3%
1.3% 4.5%
3.0% 0.0%
2.9% 3.4%
0.6% 4.3%
5.0%
0.0% 0.0%
Single-detached house
Apartments
Semi-detached house
Row house
Source: Statistics Canada, 2006 Census of Canada
0.0% 2.5%
0.5% 1.4%
0.0%
39
3.2 Trends in Tenure The rate of home ownership within the Municipality has continued to increase reaching 73% in 2006.
Figure 31: Rate of Home ownership in Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006
74%
73%
Ownership Rate
72% 71%
73.0%
72.2%
70%
69% 68% 69.0%
70.2%
67%
66%
1991
1996
Year
2001
2006
Chatham-Kent continues to have a slightly lower home ownership rate when compared to other local areas. The home ownership rate for the Municipality, however, is slightly higher compared to the overall home ownership rate for Ontario (71.0%).
Figure 32: Comparing Home Ownership Rates with Other Municipalities, 2006
84.0% 82.0%
80.0%
82.7%
Ownership Rate
78.0% 76.0%
75.9% 73.0%
75.5%
74.0%
72.0% 70.0% 68.0%
Chatham-Kent
Lambton County
Bruce County Windsor-Essex
Municipality
In general, most areas experienced slight increases in their home ownership rates. Chatham continues to have the lowest rate of home ownership at 66.0%; typical of more urban areas where there are more housing and tenure choices.
40
Figure 33: Rate Home Ownership by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2006

84.6% 82.8% 84.3%
81.0% 74.2% 74.0%
90.0% 80.0% 70.0%
Ownership Rate
60.0%
50.0%
40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
66.0%
Community
In general, compared to the previous Housing Study, home ownership rates increased for persons over the age of 45 years while younger households experienced a decline in home ownership. The number of homeowners between the ages of 55 and 64 years increased by about 3.2% while the number of homeowners under the age of 34 declined by about 4%. This is likely a result of the decrease in population experienced in the under 35 age cohorts between the two Census periods.
Figure 34: Age of Homeowners in Chatham-Kent, 2001 and 2006
23.1%
22.5%
19.5%
Percent of Total Ownership Dwellings
14.0%
14.3%
20.0% 15.0%
10.9%
15.9%
19.1%
25.0%
23.4%
76.1%
79.3%
79.4%
10.0%
1.0%
0.0% 15 to 24 Years 25 to 34 Years 35 to 44 Years 45 to 54 Years Age Groups 2001 2006 55 to 64 Years 65 to 74 Years 75 and Over
1.2%
5.0%
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulation, 1996, 2001, and 2006
9.7%
12.7%
12.6%
80.8%
100.0%
86.6%
86.3%
41
Figure 35: Age of Renters in Chatham-Kent, 2001 and 2006

25.0%
19.8%
22.9%
22.7%
19.4%
Percent of Total Rental Dwellings
20.0%
14.5%
18.8%
11.5%
10.0%
9.5%
9.6%
9.3%
10.0%
5.0%
0.0% 15 to 24 Years 25 to 34 Years 35 to 44 Years 45 to 54 Years 55 to 64 Years 65 to 74 Years 75 and Over
2001
2006
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 2001 and 2006
The following Figure further illustrates the trends in tenure by age. As shown, as age increases so does the proportion of homeowners until about the age of 75 when there is an increase in the proportion of renters.
Figure 36: Age of Renters and Homeowners in Chatham-Kent, 2006
90.0% 80.0% 78.9% 69.9% 57.2% 81.4% 83.7% 84.4% 80.9%
Percent of Households
70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0%
42.8%
30.1% 18.6% 16.3% 15.6% 19.1%
30.0%
20.0% 10.0%
0.0%
15-25 25-34 35-44 45-54 Age Groups Owners Renters 55-64 65-74 75+
8.8%
10.6%
15.0%
12.6%
42
3.3 Condition of Housing Stock The 2006 Housing Study found that the housing stock in Chatham-Kent was older than the provincial average. This continues to be the case with just 2.7% of the housing stock in Chatham-Kent being built between 2001 and 2006 compared with 9.2% for the Province. Overall, over three-quarters (77.2%) of the housing stock in Chatham-Kent was built prior to the 1980s. An aging housing stock can result in high maintenance and operating costs due to the lack of energy efficient designs and deterioration of a unit. During these times of increasing utility costs it is likely that individuals in older dwellings are facing high costs for maintenance and energy; this can create affordability challenges especially for individuals and families on fixed incomes. Energy funding programs (i.e. energy banks, energy home assistance program, and other incentive programs) are very important in assisting households to respond to these increases and help maintain their homes.
Figure 37: Age of Total Housing Stock, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2006
24.8%
30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
20.0%
18.5%
14.9%
15.2%
13.9%
14.1%
17.1%
7.4%
9.0%
5.5%
5.3%
6.4%
4.2%
5.1%
6.9%
1945 or before
1946-1960 1961-1970 1971-1980 1981-1985 1986-1990 1991-1995 1996-2000 2001-2006 Period of Construction
Chatham-Kent
Ontario
By tenure, there has been a greater proportion of ownership units built more recently (i.e. since the 1990s) with 14.2% of the ownership stock being built between 1991 and 2006 compared to 7.2% of the rental housing stock being built during that time. Overall, almost eighty percent of the rental housing stock in Chatham-Kent was built prior to the 1980s. This aging of the rental housing stock can result in high maintenance and operating costs (including increased energy costs due to inefficient design). Such increases in costs can result in higher rents and increase affordability challenges for tenants. Although not as high, the ownership stock in Chatham-Kent is also aging with about three quarters of the stock being built prior to 1980 including almost half (46.8%) 43
2.7%
9.2%
having been built prior to 1960. Again, this can result in increased costs for homeowners and can create affordability challenges particularly for persons and families on fixed incomes.
Figure 38: Age of Rental Housing Stock, Chatham-Kent Ontario, 2006
21.1% 20.7%
Percent of Total Rented Households
25.0% 20.0% 15.0%
16.5%
14.9%
16.5%
17.1%
23.1%
22.5%
6.0%
6.7%
3.8%
5.5%
10.0% 5.0% 0.0% 1945 or before 1946-1960 1961-1970 1971-1980
7.6%
8.5%
2.4%
2.8%
1981-1985
1986-1990
1991-1995
1996-2000
2001-2006
Period of Construction Chatham-Kent Ontario
Figure 39: Age of Ownership Housing Stock, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2006
Percent of Total Owned Households
30.0% 25.0%
25.5%
21.3%
16.8%
14.9%
14.7%
20.0% 15.0%
12.7%
15.6%
1.0%
3.4%
11.2%
9.9%
7.0%
4.7%
5.1%
4.4%
6.1%
10.0%
5.0% 0.0% 1945 or before
6.7%
8.5%
1946-1960 1961-1970 1971-1980 1981-1985 1986-1990 1991-1995 1996-2000 2001-2006 Period of Construction Chatham-Kent Ontario
As part of the Census, households are asked to self-report on the condition of their dwelling. These results are not based on detailed inspections of units, rather on households perception of the condition of their housing. Overall, 7.5% of residents in Chatham-Kent in 2006 felt that their home was in need of major repairs. This finding is consistent with the 2001 Census figure of 7.4%. These findings are also consistent with other local areas including Bruce County (7.9%), Windsor/Essex (6.4%) and Lambton County (8.8%). 44
3.4%
11.5%
Figure 40: Comparison of the Condition of Dwellings in other Municipalities, 2006

Percent of Total Occupied Dwellings
70.0% 60.0%
26.2% 62.8%
80.0%
30.0%
20.0%
22.0%
40.0%
25.4%
29.4%
50.0%
67.2%
71.6%
65.0%
8.8%
10.0%
0.0% Regular Maintenance Minor Repairs Condition of Dwelling
6.4%
Major Repairs
Windsor-Essex
Lambton County
Chatham-Kent
Bruce County
3.4 Recent Housing Supply Activity In addition to Statistics Canada data, it is important to look at recent development activity within the Municipality. Such information is largely based on Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) data as well as readily available data from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. The following sections describe recent housing supply activity. 3.4.1 Housing Starts and Completions From 2005 to 2010 there were a total of 915 housing starts. Housing starts peaked in 2006 at 217 followed by a decline due to the economic downturn. Housing starts in 2010 have begun to increase with 103 starts last year. The vast majority of these new units were in the form of single detached dwellings (81.5% of starts between 2005 and 2010). There have been virtually no apartment starts over the past ten years with modest starts seen in row and semi-detached dwellings.
7.5%
7.9%
45
Figure 41: Housing Starts, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2010

250 200
Hosuing Starts
150 100 50 0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Year Single Detached Semi Detached Row Housing Apartments Total
Source: CMHC Starts and Completions Survey, 1998-2010
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Housing completions illustrate a similar trend with a decline in completions starting in 2007 following the peak of housing starts in 2006. Overall, there were 886 completions from 2005 to 2010 with a total of 113 in 2010.
Figure 42: Housing Completions, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2005
250
200
Housing Completions
150
100
50
0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Year Single Detached Semi Detached Row Housing Apartments Total
46
3.4.2 Demolitions and Conversions Given the lack of new rental housing being built in the Municipality, there is a strong need to preserve the existing stock and monitor the demolition and conversion of rental housing, in particular affordable rental housing. Preserving the stock of affordable rental housing is important to ensuring a diverse and adequate supply of housing for residents. In the 2006 Housing Study it was reported that Municipal staff do not see conversions and demolitions as a concern for their area. Residential demolitions totalled 93 from 2006 to 2010 (as referenced in Population Growth Forecast 2011-2031). Staff maintain that demolitions and conversions are not an issue for the area with a limited number occurring. In some cases there have been conversions of an old apartment to condominium but this is rare. 3.4.3 Summary of Building Permits Issued Building permits in Chatham-Kent have seen a decline since 2005. However, they have shown an increase since 2008 demonstrating some recovery from the recent economic downturn. In 2010 there were 123 building permits issues with almost half located in Chatham. Thirty-nine were located in the rural areas. Rural areas include all areas outside the community settlement areas and represent a large land area. Staff at the Municipality noted that there are some developments occurring in proximity to Chatham as well as along water course areas which are attracting retirement and recreation developments. They are currently looking more closely at these rural areas of interest.
47
Table 14: Residential Building Permits Issued by Ward, Chatham-Kent, 2002-2010 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Community Blenheim 11 3 2 2 5 6 4 2 Chatham 72 64 71 98 93 89 73 41 Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Remaining Rural Total 1 3 15 4 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 61 173 0 2 8 5 2 0 0 1 2 0 1 84 172 4 8 27 3 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 68 187 7 12 29 2 8 0 0 1 2 0 0 81 242 5 1 9 1 3 0 1 1 3 2 0 85 209 8 3 5 6 1 3 0 1 0 1 0 80 203 3 5 3 8 2 1 1 0 2 1 0 55 158 3 1 3 0 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 41 96
2010 3 53 7 4 5 8 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 39 123
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Building, Enforcement & Licensing Services, 2011
As indicated by the CMHC housing starts and completions data, the vast majority of permits issued were for singles and semis and no building permits were issued for apartment buildings. Some building permits were issued for townhouses in the early 2000s with only two in 2010 and just one in each of the two years prior. In addition to the permits listed below, two multi-residential apartment permits were issued over this time period; one for Remmcor Ltd. for the development of 27 units (24 AHP and 3 market) at Riverview Terrace, and the second for AUBI Design Build Construction for the development of 14 units (12 AHP and 2 market) at Adelaide Manor. Adelaide Manor was a conversion of a commercial building to residential while Riverview Terrace was a new build.
Table 15: Building Permits Issued by Housing Type, Chatham-Kent, 2002-2010 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Housing Type Singles and Semis Townhouses Apartments Total 166 7 0 173 169 3 0 172 180 7 0 187 227 15 0 242 204 5 0 209 203 0 0 203 157 1 0 158 95 1 0 96
2010 121 2 0 123
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Building, Enforcement & Licensing Services, 2011
48
3.4.4 Summary of Recent Activity to Projections Household projections indicate an increase of 4,565 new units from 2006 to 2031. Of these anticipated new units 3,390 or 74% will be low density (136 units/year), 730 or 16% will be medium density (29 units/year), and 445 or 10% will be high density (18 units/year). This represents an average annual increase of approximately 183 new units. Building permits over the last nine years (2002-2010) have averaged at 174 units per year. Over the past five years (2005-2010) housing starts for single-detached dwellings have averaged about 80% of all starts. In addition, high density developments (i.e. apartments) have not seen any building permit activity over the past nine years. Further diversification in development will be required to meet the projections by dwelling type. The aging of the population and diversification of household type and size (i.e. increasing number of smaller households) support the expansion of medium and higher denisty housing options to meet the current and future demand of Chatham-Kent residents. 3.4.5 Inventory of Designated Lands for Residential Development Based on registered and draft approved plans, there is the potential for an additional 4,602 residential units within the Municipality. Approximately three quarters (78.4%) of these units are for single detached dwellings, about 15% are for townhouses, and about 7% are for apartment units (all draft plans). By area, seventy-five percent (or 3,427 units) of registered and draft approved plans are in Chatham. Other areas such as Tilbury (410 units), Wheatley (296 units), and Blenheim (243 units) are showing signs of future growth. Overall, these four communities account for ninety percent of the anticipated future residential growth. Based on the draft approved and registered plans to the housing projections, there is sufficient land availability to support projected housing activity. The planned mix of units is generally in keeping with the housing projections; although as indicted above, further diversification should be encouraged to fully support changing trends in population, household and income characteristics. Such trends include an aging population, increasing number of one-two person households, diversification of household type (i.e. lone parent families), as well as affordability challenges for many residents (Section 9.0).
49
Table 16: Residential Development Potential by Community, Chatham-Kent, As of May 2011 Registered/Reference Plans Singles and Townhouses Apartments Semis 38 130 6 3 69 60 47 6 359 176 2,647 28 267 16 113 3,247 17 8 3 16 44 Draft Plans Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Total 12 478 16 60 12 60 638 164 62 60 28 314 188 3,289 44 60 341 16 233 28 4,199 0 Total Units 55 138 6 6 69 60 63 6 403
Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Total
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Planning Services, 2011
50
3.5 Summary of Existing Housing Stock Single Detached Dwellings Continue to Dominate Market Based on the recent (2006) Census, single detached dwellings continue to comprise about three quarters of the total housing stock. While there have been some recent development plans for semis and row houses and even apartments (in Chatham (164 units), in Tilbury (62), in Wheatley (60) and in Mitchells Bay (28)), the vast majority of recent development and development applications are for single detached dwellings. Ownership Rates Continue to Climb The home ownership rate in Chatham-Kent reached 73% based on the 2006 Census; higher than the previous three Census periods (1991, 1996, and 2000). Housing Stock is Aging Almost eighty percent of the rental housing stock in Chatham-Kent was built prior to 1980 including about 40% which was built prior to the 1960s. While there has been a greater proportion of ownership housing built in the past twenty years compared to rental housing, almost half (46.9%) of the ownership stock was built prior to the 1960s. In addition, new supply (i.e. housing built between 2001 and 2006) is not keeping up with provincial averages. Further, there a number of households (7.5%) who are reporting their homes are in need of major repairs. This is greater for renter households at 10.0% compared with owner households (6.6%). The provincial average was 6.6% in 2006. Further Diversification of Stock is Required to Meet Projections and Need By density, projections indicate that 74% of new units will be low density, however housing starts over the past five years (2005-2010) for single-detached dwellings have averaged about 80% of all starts. Further, given the aging of the population and diversification of household type and size (i.e. increasing number of smaller households), further expansion of medium and higher denisty housing options should be encouraged to meet the current and future demand of Chatham-Kent residents.
51
4.0 Home Ownership Market

4.1 Overview For many individuals and families, home ownership is the ideal housing form. It can provide security of tenure, a positive financial investment, and ideally a safe place to call home. The following sections describe the home ownership market in ChathamKent. 4.2 Trends in Ownership Tenure Overall, the number of owned dwellings in Chatham-Kent increased by 1,580 units from 2001 to 2006. Approximately half of these are located in Chatham.
Table 17: Distribution of Ownership Dwellings by Community in Chatham-Kent, 2006 Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Chatham-Kent # Owned 1,387 12,167 827 1,015 1,580 660 916 299 134 246 104 162 315 31,780 % Distribution by Community 4.4% 38.3% 2.6% 3.2% 5.0% 2.1% 2.9% 0.9% 0.4% 0.8% 0.3% 0.5% 1.0% 100.0% Total Housing Stock 1,870 19,635 1,010 1,365 1,830 4,485 1,110 395 205 300 155 205 385 43,670
With the exception of movable dwellings, all dwelling types experienced an increase in ownership. The number of owned semi-detached dwellings, for example, increased by about 13% and the number of owned row houses more than doubled. By comparison, however, the change in overall stock actually shows a decline of row houses and only a small increase in semis (0.4%), and apartments (2.0%). These trends imply that these housing forms which may have been used as rental properties in the past are being reverted (or converted) to ownership. Given the economic downturn in the area, landlords may have been prompted to sell their
52
properties therefore removing them from the rental market. As mentioned, conversions are not seen as an issue for the Municipality.
Figure 43: Proportion of Owned Dwellings (as a Proportion of Total Dwellings) by Dwelling Type, Chatham-Kent, 1996, 2001, and 2006
87.7%
100.0% 90.0% 80.0%

Percent of Total
88.7%
89.3%
93.3%
70.0% 60.0%
42.7%
37.1%
26.5%
23.6%
28.3%
40.0% 30.0%
32.0%
12.5%
7.0%
3.3%
10.0% 0.0% Single-detached Semi-detached house house
Row house
Apartment, detached duplex
Apartment, 5+ Apartment, less Other singlestoreys than five attached house storeys
3.0%
3.2%
4.2%
6.9%
20.0%
12.5%
21.6%
37.5%
50.0%
39.3%
52.9%
Dwelling Type 1996 2001 2006
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 1996, 2001, 2006
4.3 Trends in House Prices The following section provides an overview of sales prices in Chatham-Kent based on data gathered through the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). Based on this data, the average price for a single detached dwelling in Chatham-Kent as of August 30, 2011 was $149,854. Semi-detached and town houses were in a similar range although slightly higher at $153,766 and $165,400 respectively. While such housing types are typically smaller in size the higher price is likely a reflection of a newer stock. There are also fewer sales in semis and town houses, allowing for higher priced units to push the average upwards.
Table 18: MPAC Sales by Dwelling Type, 2006-2011
2006 Dwelling Type Single-Detached House Semi-Detached House Row/Town House Apartment/Condo Total Units Sold 1,469 69 42 164 1,744 Average Price $132,811 $109,028 $186,751 $90,901 Units Sold 1,530 83 35 114 1,762 2007 Average Price $138,087 $121,402 $178,736 $94,139 Units Sold 1,294 46 26 115 1,481 2008 Average Price $140,512 $112,701 $226,661 $110,781 Units Sold 1,036 38 10 77 1,161 2009 Average Price $142,802 $103,911 $193,890 $98,634 Units Sold 1,152 53 24 80 1,309 2010 Average Price $144,998 $122,616 $181,059 $109,384 As of Aug 30,2011 Units Sold 645 26 20 51 742 Average Price $149,854 $153,766 $165,400 $122,688
Source: Chatham-Kent MPAC Sales Data, 2005-2011
79.6%
Movable dwelling
82.6%
53
Figure 44: Average Price of MPAC Sales by Dwelling Type, 2006-2011

$250,000
$226,661 $193,890 $178,736 $181,059 $165,400
$200,000
$186,751
Average Price
$150,000
$132,811 $109,028
$138,087
$140,512 $112,701
$142,802
$144,998
$153,766 $149,854
$122,688
$122,616 $103,911
$109,384
$100,000
$90,901
$121,402
$94,139
$110,781 $98,634
$50,000
$0 2006 2007 2008 Year Semi-Detached House 2009 2010 As of Aug 30,2011
Apartment/Condo
Single-Detached House
Row/Town House
The following data, illustrates the number of house sales, by type, that would be affordable at each household income decile. This data is shown for 2005, 2010 and as of August 30, 2011. As shown, there were sales at affordable prices for all household deciles. Using the average price of about $150,000 for a single detached dwelling, this would be affordable to households in the fourth income decile. In general, most sales for single detached dwellings were affordable to households within the first six deciles. In 2011, almost forty-five percent of sales were affordable to households earning between $107,083 and $173,765; representing just twenty percent of households. Households in the top three deciles (representing thirty percent of households) had just under two percent of the sales within their affordable price range. Trends for semis/rows are similar with very few sales within the higher income decile affordability levels. In 2011, for example, the vast majority (78.2%) of sales were within the first five income decile affordability levels. Most sales in the condominium market are affordable to households in the second income decile; 100% in 2005, 52.2% in 2010, and 75% in 2011).
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Table 19: MPAC Sales by Price Range, 2005-2011 Sales by Price Range, 2005 HH Income Decile 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th $15,845 $24,377 $33,135 $41,854 $51,083 $62,404 $75,259 $91,704 $116,724 House Price Range Under $58,741 $58,741-$90,371 $90,371-$122,839 $122,839-$155,162 $155,162-$189,376 $189,376-$231,345 $231,345-$279,002 $279,002-$339,967 $339,967-$432,721 $432,721 and over Total Single Detached # 129 271 332 361 204 97 59 26 10 2 1,491 % 8.7% 18.2% 22.3% 24.2% 13.7% 6.5% 4.0% 1.7% 0.7% 0.1% 100.0% Semi/Row # 10 31 19 19 11 9 3 0 0 0 102 % 9.8% 30.4% 18.6% 18.6% 10.8% 8.8% 2.9% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0% # 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Condo % 0.0% 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0% Condo # 7 12 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 23 % 30.4% 52.2% 8.7% 4.3% 4.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0%
Sales by Price Range, 2010 HH Income Decile 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th $18,736 $28,080 $36,694 $45,996 $56,097 $68,452 $94,675 $104,987 $120,850 House Price Range Under $69,458 $69,458-$104,095 $104,095-$136,033 $136,033-$170,517 $170,517-$207,964 $207,964-$253,767 $253,767-$350,981 $350,981-$389,210 $389,210-$448,017 $448,017 and over Total Single Detached # 140 191 271 237 130 95 63 8 13 4 1,152 % 12.2% 16.6% 23.5% 20.6% 11.3% 8.2% 5.5% 0.7% 1.1% 0.3% 100.0% Semi/Row # 9 19 13 10 11 14 1 0 0 0 77 % 11.7% 24.7% 16.9% 13.0% 14.3% 18.2% 1.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0%
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Sales by Price Range, as of August 30,2011 HH Income Decile 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th $19,375 $28,885 $37,450 $46,872 $57,158 $69,730 $99,122 $107,867 $121,693 House Price Range Under $71,827 $71,827-$107,083 $107,083-$138,835 $138,835-$173,765 $173,765-$211,897 $211,897-$258,504 $258,504-$367,467 $367,467-$399,887 $399,887-$451,143 $451,143 and over Total Single Detached # 86 92 137 143 85 51 40 3 5 3 645 % 13.3% 14.3% 21.2% 22.2% 13.2% 7.9% 6.2% 0.5% 0.8% 0.5% 100.0% Semi/Row # 8 9 3 6 10 6 4 0 0 0 46 % 17.4% 19.6% 6.5% 13.0% 21.7% 13.0% 8.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0% # 1 12 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 Condo % 6.3% 75.0% 0.0% 18.8% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100.0%
4.4 Summary of Home Ownership Market Ownership Increasing in Chatham-Kent The number of owned dwellings increased by 1,580 from 2001 to 2006; the total increase in all dwellings was 1,600. This signals that this increase in ownership is not solely based on new supply rather that some of the supply (i.e. semis, rows, apartments), are being reverted back or converted to ownership. Given the economic downturn, landlords may be prompted to sell thus removing their units from the rental market or given high vacancy rates decided to convert to condominiums. House Prices Continue to Rise Steadily House prices for single detached dwellings continue to increase steadily. As of August 2011 the average house price for a single detached dwelling was $149,845 compared to $132,811 in 2005; an increase of 12.8%. Data for semis and town houses show more fluctuations in the market as a result of a relatively small supply and newer units raising the average sales price. Using the average price of about $150,000 for a single detached dwelling, this would be affordable to households in the fourth income decile (i.e. earning more than $33,135).
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5.0 Rental Housing Market

5.1 Overview Home ownership is not a viable or preferable option for everyone; often the rental housing market can better meet the needs of individuals and families. For some, rental housing can be a more affordable housing option, for others it can provide smaller units with less maintenance and care required, and for others, who may be in transition, it can be a more short-term housing options. The following sections examine the current rental housing market in Chatham-Kent and comment on changes in the market over time. 5.2 Trends in Rental Tenure The majority of the rental housing stock is found within the community of Chatham (53.4%) with the second highest proportion in Wallaceburg (10.5%). Overall there were 11,745 rental units within the Municipality in 2006; an increase of just 65 units from the 2001 Census. Given the number of building permits issued over this time period (no permits for apartments were issued and just 37 permits were issued for townhouses), it is likely that most of the addition to the rental housing stock was not through the development of purpose built apartment buildings but rather through secondary rental markets.
Table 20: Distribution of Rental Dwellings by Community in Chatham-Kent, 2006 Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Chatham-Kent # Rented 483 6,685 165 380 250 1,240 180 80 25 50 30 55 75 11,755 % Distribution by Community 4.1% 56.9% 1.4% 3.2% 2.1% 10.5% 1.5% 0.7% 0.2% 0.4% 0.3% 0.5% 0.6% 100.0% Total Housing Stock 1,870 19,635 1,010 1,365 1,830 4,485 1,110 395 205 300 155 205 385 43,670
Source: Statistics Canada; Custom Tabulations, 2006
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Consistent with the findings within the home ownership housing analysis, the proportion of rental dwellings as a proportion of total dwellings had declined for most housing types. In particular, the proportion of rented semis and row houses has declined since the previous Census period (2001).
Figure 45: Proportion of Rented Dwellings (as a Proportion of Total Dwellings) by Dwelling Type, Chatham-Kent, 1996, 2001, and 2006
96.8%
73.5%
75.9% 75.7%
100.0%
57.3%
87.4%
87.5%
96.7%
93.3%
97.3%
95.8%
93.1%
71.7%
63.6%
72.0%
Percent of Total
60.7%
80.0% 60.0%
20.4%
10.6%
12.3%
11.3%
20.0%
0.0%
Single-detached Semi-detached house house
Row house
Apartment, detached duplex 1996
Apartment, 5+ Apartment, less Other singlestoreys than five attached house storeys 2006
Movable dwelling
2001
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 1996, 2001, and 2006
5.2.1 Trends in Vacancy Rates Vacancy rates in Chatham-Kent were around 7% for the Municipality in 2005, suggesting that there was an adequate supply of rental housing to meet demand. While fluctuating slightly over the years, as of 2010 the vacancy rate for the Municipality was at 7%. This again suggests an adequate supply of rental housing. Of note is that the vacancy rates for areas outside of Chatham and Wallaceburg have a lower than average vacancy rate at 4.9% suggesting a tighter rental market in the less urban communities.
6.7%
58
17.4%
40.0%
47.1%
62.5%
Figure 46: Private Rental Apartment Vacancy Rates, Chatham-Kent CA, 2001-2010
20.0% 18.0% 16.0% 14.0%
Vacancy Rate
12.0% 10.0%
8.0%
6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0% 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Year Chatham Wallaceburg Rest of Chatham-Kent Chatham-Kent CA Healthy Market
Source: CMHC Rental Market Reports, 1999-2010
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Vacancy rates for one-bedroom units is lower at 5.9% compared with two (7.8%) and three-bedroom units (6.8%).
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Table 21: Rental Housing Vacancy Rates in Chatham-Kent, 2009-2010 Rest of Chatham-Kent Chatham Wallaceburg Chatham-Kent CA 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 Vacant Units Bachelor Universe Percent Vacant Vacant Units Universe Percent Vacant Vacant Units Universe Percent Vacant Vacant Units Universe Percent Vacant Vacant Units ** 30 ** 65 1,208 5.4% 93 1,700 5.4% 22 506 4.3% 182 ** 34 ** 75 1,183 6.3% 141 1,636 8.6% ** 554 ** 254 ** 11 ** ** 135 ** ** 289 ** ** 29 ** ** ** ** ** 0 85 0.0% 22 264 8.3% 4 43 9.3% 26 ** ** ** 29 237 12.4% 33 413 8.0% 7 61 11.9% 70 ** ** ** 13 236 5.7% 18 413 4.3% 4 69 5.5% 35 ** 44 ** 118 1,581 7.5% 163 2402 6.8% 29 597 4.9% 318 ** 41 ** 88 1,504 5.9% 180 2,313 7.8% 45 666 6.8% 315 4,525 7.0%
1 Bedroom
2 Bedroom
3+ Bedroom
Universe 3,444 3,408 465 396 715 721 4,624 Total Percent 5.3% 7.5% ** 6.5% 9.7% 4.9% 6.9% Vacant Source: CMHC Rental Market Reports, 2009-2010 ** Data suppressed to protect confidentiality or data not statistically reliable.
The following figure illustrates the rent range of the vacant units in 2010 for Chatham-Kent only in buildings with three or more units. Based on this data, there is no way of knowing whether the available units are adequate or in good condition. In general, one-bedroom vacant units ranged from under $460/month up to $740/month. About forty percent of the one-bedroom vacant units fell within the rent range of $540 to $659 per month6.
Utilities such as heating, electricity and hot water may or may not be included in the rent.
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Figure 47: Occupied and Vacant One-Bedroom Apartment Units in Chatham-Kent by Rent Range, 2010
350 300 15 15 19 9
Number of Untis
250 200 150 100 50 0
5 9 285
7 198 135 222 172 13
125
129
48
Under $460 $460-$499 $500-$539 $540-$579 $580-$619 $620-$659 $660-$699 $700-$739
26
$740+
Rent Range Occupied Vacant

Source: CMHC, Special Request
Vacant two-bedroom units were also reported along a broad rent scale. In general, most (73.9%) of the vacancies for two-bedroom units fell within a rent range of $620 and up per month.
Figure 48: Occupied and Vacant Two-Bedroom Apartment Units by Rent Range, 2010
700
600
38
Number of Units
500 400 300 200 31
32 11 11 3 61
4 34 152 20 146 211
38 355
603
100 0
288
217
Under $460 $460-$499 $500-$539 $540-$579 $580-$619 $620-$659 $660-$699 $700-$739 Rent Range Occupied Vacant
Source: CMHC, Special Request
$740+
5.2.2 Trends in Average Market Rents Looking at average market rents, the rents in Chatham-Kent have increased by approximately 10.3% from 2005 to 2010 (for all unit sizes)7. One-bedroom units in Chatham-Kent increased by about $50/month, two-bedroom increased by $60/month and three+ bedrooms increased by $90/month.
7
The overall average of 10.3% is consistent with the maximum allowed rent increase over this time period. Rent control guidelines averaged just under 2%/year from 2005-2010.
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Figure 49: Private Apartment Average Rents by Bedroom Type, Chatham-Kent CA, 1999-2010
$800 $700 $600
Average Rent
$500 $400 $300 $200 $100 $0 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Year Bachelor 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom +
Source: CMHC Rental Market Reports, 1999-2010
Rents within Chatham showed higher increases to rent levels between 2005 and 2010 when compared to the Municipality as a whole. Wallaceburg on the other hand had lower increases in rent levels and even showed a decline in rent for two-bedroom and three+ bedrooms.
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Table 22: Private Apartment Average Rents, 1999-2010, Chatham-Kent CA 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Average Annual Increase 1.2% 1.6% 1.7% 1.6% N/A 4.4% 2.2% N/A N/A 0.7% 0.2% 1.6% 2.0% 1.6% 1.4% 1.4% % Change 19992010 N/A 19.1% 20.4% 15.5% N/A 38.2% 11.9% 5.8% N/A N/A N/A N/A 23.1% 18.8% 16.3% 13.8%
Bachelor 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom + Bachelor 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom + Bachelor 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom + Bachelor 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom +
** $502 $593 $611 ** $419 $545 $599 N/A N/A N/A N/A $381 $495 $588 $610
City of Chatham ** ** ** ** ** $452 $440 $425 $456 $452 $478 $503 $506 $519 $522 $532 $541 $544 $556 $575 $581 $598 $596 $606 $607 $616 $625 $627 $634 $658 $645 $667 $714 $629 $611 $613 $622 $630 $602 $589 $675 $625 $603 $706 Wallaceburg ** ** ** ** ** $379 $395 $409 $425 $430 ** $429 $441 ** $505 $532 $534 $530 $546 $554 $556 $579 $551 $565 $585 $610 $609 $622 $616 $621 $630 $613 $610 ** ** ** ** $675 $656 $610 $639 $661 $565 $634 Rest of Chatham-Kent N/A N/A N/A N/A ** ** ** ** ** ** ** N/A N/A N/A N/A $510 $506 $508 $511 $518 $533 $533 N/A N/A N/A N/A $611 $607 $598 $608 $608 $617 $618 N/A N/A N/A N/A $578 $595 $628 $625 $615 $616 $635 Chatham-Kent CA $391 $409 $408 $441 $434 $421 $451 $444 $469 $497 $500 $514 $520 $529 $536 $538 $550 $565 $571 $588 $591 $601 $604 $616 $622 $624 $627 $646 $637 $653 $684 $627 $615 $617 $625 $629 $604 $593 $667 $626 $602 $694 Source: CMHC Rental Market Reports, 1999-2010 ** Data suppressed to protect confidentiality or data not statistically reliable.
Rent levels for all bedroom sizes in Chatham Kent remain lower than surrounding local areas including Sarnia and Windsor.
Figure 50: Comparison of 2010 Private Apartment Average Rents for Chatham-Kent CA and Similar Municipalities
$1,000 $900 $800 $700 $600 $500 $400 $300 $200 $100 $0 $943
$684
$588
$891
$752 $627
Average Rent
$694
$743
$632
Chatham CA 1 Bedroom
Sarnia CA 2 Bedroom
Windsor CMA 3 Bedroom +
Source: CMHC Rental Market Report Ontario Highlights, 2010
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5.3 Summary of Rental Housing Market Proportion of Renter Occupied Dwellings Continues to Decline Consistent with the findings within the home ownership housing analysis, the proportion of rental dwellings as a proportion of total dwellings has continued to decline for most housing types. In particular, the proportion of rented semis and row houses has declined further since the previous Census period (2001). With interest rates remaining relatively low up to the last Census period, more individuals and families were able to enter into the home ownership market. In addition, some homes that may have been used as rental dwellings (i.e. semis and row houses) may have been reverted back to home ownership through landlords deciding to sell their properties. Vacancy Rates in Chatham-Kent Remain Comparatively High Vacancy rates in Chatham-Kent were around 7% in 2010; approximately what they were at in 2005 (7.4%). A healthy vacancy rate is generally considered around 3% meaning a balance between choice of housing and households entering into the home ownership market. Areas outside Chatham and Wallaceburg have lower vacancy rates compared to the Municipality as a whole at 4.9% suggesting a tighter rental market in the less urban areas. Likely due to high vacancy rates, average market rents for the area remain lower than surrounding municipalities for all bedroom sizes. In addition, the rental housing stock is older with eighty percent of the stock built prior to the 1980s and thirty percent build prior to the 1960s. Just one percent of the rental stock was built from 2001 to 2006. An older housing stock can indicate higher utility costs and therefore, even if rents are more affordable the added costs of utilities could cause households to face affordability challenges. There are also a greater number of renter households reporting that their units are in need of major repairs at 10.0%, compared to 6.6% of owners. The overall decline in the population under the age of 35 may also be a result of high vacancies. Individuals and families in this age cohort may have traditionally been more likely to rent but due to economic reasons have moved out of the Municipality in search of employment opportunities.
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6.0 Social Housing

Social housing provides affordable rental housing for people whose income prevents them from obtaining housing that is affordable to them in the private market. The maximum rent in social housing is 30% of gross household income (rent-geared-toincome (RGI)) or market rent for the unit, whichever is lower. 6.1 Changes to Social Housing Portfolio Since the 2006 Housing Study, the social housing portfolio in Chatham-Kent decreased from 1,817 units to 1,592 units. Over this time, three federal housing projects paid out their mortgages thereby ending their operating agreements. As a result, the social housing stock has been reduced by 225 units (these units were mixed; just over half of them were one-bedroom units). As well, two unilateral federal social housing projects (Tilbury Centential ILM and Maple City) have gone into receivership and were subsequently sold. These projects had been administered by CMHC. There is one remaining federally administered cooperative in Chatham-Kent (Nova Housing). Despite expiring operating agreements and diminishing federal funding, the Municipality is still required to maintain its service level standards. This is an important consideration in developing housing policy; in addition to identifying opportunities to create new housing it is critical that the Municipality maintain their existing supply of affordable housing. In addition, while not an overall increase to the social housing stock, there was an increase in the public housing stock (i.e. stock managed by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent) of 100 units. In 2007, the Wallaceburg Housing Corporation was sold and transferred to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent resulting in a transfer of 100 units from the non-profit housing stock to the public housing stock.
Table 23: Public Housing Portfolio by Mandate, Geographic Location and Unit Size
# of Units Mandate Community Blenheim Bothwell Chatham Adult Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Total Adult # of Buildings 2 1 2 1 1 3 2 1 13 Bachelor 0 0 0 0 6 3 0 0 9 One Bedroom 61 10 209 40 4 36 71 20 451 Two Bedroom 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 Three Bedroom 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Four Bedroom 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 61 10 211 40 10 39 71 20 462 Special Needs 1 0 6 1 0 0 4 1 13
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Table 23: Public Housing Portfolio by Mandate, Geographic Location and Unit Size
% of Total Public Housing Stock Family Tilbury Wallaceburg 23.6% 7 32 39 70.9% 2 1 3 5.5% 55 100% 1.3% 0 0 0 0.0% 0 0 0 0.0% 9 1.3% 35 85 12.2% 536 76.8% 64.6% 0 0 0 0.0% 0.3% 4 64 68 9.7% 0 0 0 0.0% 70 10.0% 0.0% 9 56 65 9.3% 0 0 0 0.0% 65 9.3% 0.0% 4 14 18 2.6% 0 0 0 0.0% 18 2.6% 66.2% 17 134 151 21.6% 50 35 85 12.2% 698 100% 1.9% 0 4 4 0.6% 0 0 0 0.0% 17 2.4%
Total Family % of Total Public Housing Stock Senior Chatham Wallaceburg
Total Senior % of Total Public Housing Stock Total % of Total Public Housing Stock
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, May 2011
Table 24: Non-Profit, Co-operative and Federal Providers Housing Portfolio by Mandate, Geographic Location and Unit Size
Mandate Senior Adult/Family/Senior Family/Senior Family Community Blenheim Chatham Ridgetown Wallaceburg Total # of Buildings 1 158.5 7 4 170.5 0 0 # Units Bachelor 0 One Bedroom 25 174 17 0 216 Two Bedroom 10 256 17 9 292 Three Bedroom 0 204 6 21 231 Four Bedroom 0 33 2 0 35 Total 35 667 42 30 774 Special Needs 2 33 2 1 39
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, May 2011 Note: 25% of the Non-Profit, Co-operative and Federal Housing Portfolio is Market Rent
In addition to the supply of public and non-profit housing, there is also a supply of rent supplement housing in Chatham-Kent8. The number of rent supplement units within the public housing portfolio has not changed since 2006 and remains at 120 units. In October 2011, however, twelve supportive rent supplement units with the Ontario March of Dimes were terminated. The Municipality is providing twelve rentgeared-to income units to replace these units effective November 1, 2011.
A rent supplement is a subsidy paid to a landlord towards rent to help bridge the gap between market rent and the rent-geared-to-income portion of the rent paid by the tenant.
66
Within the non-profit and cooperative housing portfolios there has been an overall increase of 12 rent supplement units and 31 rent-geared-to income (RGI) units. The increase in RGI units is a result of market rent units changing to RGI units in two buildings: Wallaceburg Kinsmen Court (6 units) and Christian Senior Citizens (25 units). This was made possible by municipal Councils consent to convert these projects to the reformed provincial program.
Table 25: Summary of Social Housing Portfolio Rent Supplement Public Housing Rent Supplement (excluding NP/Co-op) Non-Profits & Co-operatives Total 120 35 RGI 683 562 Market Rent 15 177 Special Needs 17 1 44* 62
155 1,245 192 Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, June 2011 Note: *includes 10 units designated as supportive housing.
As of June 2011, there were no increases to the total number of accessible units within the Municipality.
Table 26: Social Housing Accessible Units by Community, C-K Social Housing, Non-Profits and Cooperatives Community Chatham Wallaceburg Blenheim Tilbury Wheatley Dresden Ridgetown Bothwell Number of Accessible Units 52 8 1 2 1 1 1 0 Unit Sizes 1Bd- 29, 2Bd- 17, 3Bd- 5, 4B-1 1Bd- 4, 2Bd- 2, 3Bd- 2 1Bd- 1 2Bd- 2 1Bd- 1 1Bd- 1 1Bd- 1 -
Total 66 Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, June 2011 Note: There are more accessible units than special needs units as some accessible units are not designated as special needs units under the Social Housing Reform Act.
More recently, Riverview Terrace was completed in November 2011 with 27 barrierfree apartments including 12 fully modified units. There have also been a number of improvements to the accessibility of the social housing stock. Enhancements include the addition of an elevator to Park View Apartments in Wallaceburg, installation of insuite ringers at Ridge Marsh Manor and Ridgetown Non-Profit, automatic door openers at the front entrances of several buildings, several wheelchair accessibility improvements at Clairvue Cooperative and Chatham Non-Profit, ramp added at 67
Tilbury property, as well as the addition of several ramps and handrails to specific units. For more details on the accessibility improvements to social housing units in Chatham-Kent, refer to the Accessibility Advisory Committees Annual Report to Council found on the municipal website (visit: 2010 - 2011 Chatham-Kent Accessibility Report). 6.2 Current Breakdown of Public Housing Stock Of the 698 public housing units, the majority (77%) are comprised of one-bedroom units and most (66%) are adult units.
Figure 51: Breakdown of the Public Housing Portfolio by Unit Size and by Mandate
3 Bedroom, 65, 9% 2 Bedroom, 70, 10% 4 Bedroom, 18, 3% Bachelor, 9, 1% Senior 12%
Family 22% 1 Bedroom, 536, 77%
Adult 66%
The majority of the public housing stock is located within Chatham and Wallaceburg with 37% and 34% respectively.
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Figure 52: Breakdown of the Public Housing Portfolio by Geographic Location

Wheatley 3% Blenheim 9%
Bothwell 2%
Wallaceburg 34% Chatham 37%
Tilbury 8%
Ridgetown 1%
Dresden 6%
6.3 Social Housing Market Rents Average market rents in social housing projects in Chatham-Kent have experienced some increases since the 2006 Housing Study. Average market rents remain, in general, slightly higher in Chatham compared to other areas within the Municipality. In Chatham, rents increased by approximately 5% from 2005 to 2011. This increase is below average market rent increases in the private sector, which were around 10% for a one-bedroom unit in Chatham. As of 2011, rents for apartments units range from $508 up to $581 for a one-bedroom unit. Townhouses and semis range from about $654 to $684 for a two-bedroom unit, and detached dwellings range from about $682 to $711.
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Table 27: Social Housing Average Market Rents Community Year Bachelor 1 Bd Apartment 2 Bd Apartment 3 Bd Apartment 1 Bd Townhouse 2 Bd Townhouse 3 Bd Townhouse/Semi 4 Bd Townhouse/Semi 2 Bd House 3 Bd House 4 Bd House Chatham 2005 $554.00 $644.82 $695.00 $631.14 $653.89 $694.37 $640.00 $694.37 $684.00 2011 $581.67 $680.67 $713.00 $654.67 $684.57 $730.75 $682.00 $692.00 $718.00 Wallaceburg 2005 Apartments $500.00 $569.33 $621.20 $658.75 $647.00 $688.00 $513.33 $644.00 $680.80 $719.33 $682.00 $683.00 $711.00 $418.50 $479.67 $633.78 $520.00 $589.85 $619.64 $661.39 $422.50 $508.64 $686.00 $425.00 $612.00 $654.33 $704.67 2011 Remainder of Chatham-Kent 2005 2011
Townhouses/ Semi-Detached Houses
Detached Houses
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, June 2011
6.4 Social Housing Waiting List Overall, the number of households on the social housing waiting list has fluctuated since 1998 from a low of 192 in 2003 to a high of 344 in 20009. As of December 2010, there were 321 households waiting for social housing, the 2006 Housing Study reported a waiting list of 216 households as of December 2005.
Annual wait list statistics are based on figures from December of each year.
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Figure 53: Trend in Number of Households on Social Housing Waiting List, 1998-2010
400 350 327 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Year
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, 1998-2011
344
335 308
246 235 192 214 216 277
321
296
235
As of May 2011, there were 353 households on the social housing waiting list; an increase of 32 households from December. The average number of households on the wait list for 2011 (as of May) was 353. Interestingly, while the supply of seniors units has not changed, the proportion of seniors on the waiting list has increased from 11.5% in 2005 to one-third of the households in 2011. The number of seniors has increased as a result of the Municipality considering seniors as 50 years and over as part of the cascading age policy. In addition, staff at the Municipality indicated that there are more support agencies providing supports to seniors living independently and therefore more seniors are aging in place longer. In addition, the waiting lists for long-term care homes (in particular for basic rooms which are more affordable) are growing and some seniors may be attempting to manage on their own longer with supports in place.
71
Figure 54: Social Housing Waiting List by Household Type, December 2005 and May 2011
Percent of Households on Waiting List
60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0%
11.5% 48.7% 39.9% 39.6% 33.3% 27.1%
10.0%
0.0%
Decemer 2005 Period With Dependents Without Dependents Seniors May 2011
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Division, December 2005 & June 2011
By community, there have not been considerable changes in the proportion of households waiting for social housing. Both Chatham and Wallaceburg have shown increases at 3.7% and 1% respectively and currently comprise almost ninety percent of the waiting list.
Figure 55: Social Housing Waiting List by Community, As of December 2005 and May 2011
Number of Households on Waiting List
250 200 150
116 78% 197 82%
100
50 0
8 3 2.0% 3.3% 9 7 6% 3% 8 5% 9 4% 9 6% 17 7% 2 1% 1 1 1 0 0.4% 1% 0.4%
Community Dec-05 May-11
So urce: Municipality o f Chatham-Kent, Ho using Services Division, December 2005 & June 2011
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Figure 56: Number of Households on Waiting List by Bedroom Type, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2010
160 140
149 125 123
142 130
138 111 91 106 91 71 89
139 125 120
120 100 80 60 40 20 23 0 Dec. 1998 16 62
56 32 16 Dec. 2000 38
54 27
58
2225
11 Dec. 2003
42 28 13 Dec. 2005
47 3635 2323 30
43 15
41 23
45
Dec. 1999
Dec. 2001
Dec. 2002
Dec. 2004 2 Bedrooms
Dec. 2006
Dec. 2007
Dec. 2008
Dec. 2009
Dec. 2010
Period 1 Bedroom 3 Bedrooms 4 Bedrooms

In general, vacancy rates remain lower (approximately 2%) for adult and seniors buildings with higher vacancy rates in family units. Vacancy rates for family units were at about 15% as of early 2011, rates reported in the 2006 Housing Study were at about 24%. Two-thirds of the current family unit vacancies are within Wallaceburg. Vacancies for family units in Wallaceburg have traditionally been higher in particular for the Wallace Street location. With the economic downturn in the area, many of the other family sites in Wallaceburg have started to fill up and it is anticipated that vacancies at Wallace Street may start to decline with a lack of other options. Typically, residents do not wish to live at the Wallace Street residence due to its location, many find it unsuitable to raise their families.
73
Figure 57: Social Housing Vacancy Rates by Mandate, Quarterly, 2009-2010

16.0% 14.0% 12.0%
Vacancy Rate
10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0%
2.0% 0.0%
Q1 2009 Q2 2009 Q3 2009 Q4 2009 Q1 2010 Q2 2010 Q3 2010 Q4 2010 Q1 2011 Quarter Adult Senior Family
Table 28: Social Housing Vacancy Rates by Community, Quarterly, 2009-2011 Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Q1 2009 0.0% 2.3% 2.5% 0.0% 3.6% 4.6% 5.0% 10.0% Q2 2009 3.3% 3.8% 2.5% 0.0% 1.8% 5.0% 5.0% 0.0% Q3 2009 4.9% 3.1% 2.5% 0.0% 1.8% 7.1% 0.0% Q4 2009 3.3% 1.9% 2.5% 0.0% 1.8% 5.4% 0.0% Vacancy Rates Q1 Q2 2010 2010 4.9% 8.2% 3.1% 10.0% 20.0% 0.0% 7.5% 10.0% 3.8% 2.5% 10.0% 5.4% 6.7% 10.0% Q3 2010 6.6% 2.7% 5.0% 20.0% 5.4% 7.5% 0.0% Q4 2010 4.9% 1.1% 5.0% 10.0% 3.6% 7.9% 0.0% Q1 2011 3.3% 0.8% 0.0% 0.0% 3.6% 11.7% 0.0% Average 4.4% 2.5% 3.6% 6.7% 3.0% 7.0% 3.3%
0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.1% Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , 2009-2011 Note: social housing vacancy rate date prior to 2009 is not included due to changes in the housing portfolio.
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Table 29: Public Housing, Number of Vacant Units by Community and Mandate, Quarterly, 20092011
Number of Vacant Units Community Mandate Total Units Q1 2009 0 0 5 1 1 0 0 2 2 8 1 1 1 22 Q2 2009 2 1 9 0 1 0 0 1 1 10 1 1 0 27 Q3 2009 3 2 6 0 1 0 0 1 2 14 1 0 0 30 Q4 2009 2 0 5 0 1 0 0 1 0 12 1 0 0 22 Q1 2010 3 2 5 1 4 2 0 0 2 14 2 2 0 37 Q2 2010 5 2 5 3 1 1 1 2 4 11 1 2 0 38 Q3 2010 4 0 4 3 2 2 3 0 0 18 0 0 0 36 Q4 2010 3 0 2 1 2 1 0 2 2 17 0 0 0 30 Q1 2011 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 3 23 2 0 0 34 Average 3 1 5 1 1 1 0 1 2 14 1 1 0 31
Blenheim Chatham Chatham Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Tilbury Wallaceburg Wallaceburg Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Total
Adult Senior Adult Family Adult Adult Family Adult Adult Family Senior Adult Adult
61 50 211 Included in Senior and Adult 40 10 17 39 71 134 35 20 10 698
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , 2009-2011
Social housing staff has indicated that one and two bedroom units are in high demand in particular in Chatham and, in general note that there is a sufficient supply of three and four bedroom units. Wait time trends, shown below, further illustrate this. With the exception of units in Chatham and Ridgetown (four bedroom units only) wait times are minimal for two, three, and four bedroom units. Wait times for one-bedroom units have increased since the 2006 Housing Study. With the exception of Wallaceburg and Wheatley, wait times for one-bedroom units have increased in all areas, generally by about four to six months. Wait times for seniors units have also increased; in most cases from minimal wait to at least four to six months.
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Table 30: Public Housing Wait Times, November 2005 and June 2011
Community Blenheim 1 Bedroom 2005 processing time 2011 4 to 6 months 2 Bedroom 2005 N/A East End minimal wait; Other than East End - 4 to 6 months N/A N/A 2011 N/A East End4 to 6 months; Other than East End 6 to 8 months N/A N/A 3 Bedrooms 2005 N/A East End minimal wait; Other than East End - 0 to 2 months N/A N/A 2011 N/A East End2 to 4 months; Other than East End- 2 to 4 months N/A N/A 4 Bedrooms 2005 N/A 2011 N/A
Chatham
12 months
14 to 16 months
4 to 6 months
6 months
ChathamSeniors Dresden
no wait list no wait list 8 to 10 months processing time minimal wait 3 to 4 months no wait list minimal wait wait minimal minimal wait
8 to 10 months minimal wait list 4 to 6 months 4 to 6 months 6 to 18 months 2 to 4 months 6 to 8 months minimal wait list 8 to 10 months 2 to 12 months
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Ridgetown
N/A
N/A
N/A
minimal wait list
12 Months +
12 Months +
RidgetownSeniors Tilbury Wallaceburg WallaceburgSeniors Wheatley Bothwell Thamesville
minimal wait list 8 to 12 months no wait list N/A N/A N/A N/A
no wait list 6 to 8 months no wait list N/A N/A N/A N/A
4 to 6 months N/A no wait list N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A no wait list no wait list N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A no wait list no wait list N/A N/A N/A N/A
N/A no wait list no wait list N/A N/A N/A minimal wait list
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , 2011
6.5 Affordable Housing The Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program (2005) was administered through the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. There were four components to the program: Rental and Supportive, Home ownership, Northern, and Housing Allowances. Service Managers are responsible for establishing local program guidelines. Under the program, Chatham-Kent successfully implemented the following program initiatives with $4.69 million in program funding plus $339,125 in administrative funding: Capital, Rental & Supportive: has resulted in the addition of a total of 41 new affordable rental units, including: One Chatham Hope Non Profit Housing Inc. single family dwelling modified for the physically disabled;
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Twelve Remmcor Ltd rental units (three with mental health supports and four modified for physically disabled); Four Chatham Kent Womens Centre second stage housing (at Nancys Place) for victims of domestic violence supports; and 24 Riverview Terrace rental units (12 modified for physically disabled). Housing Allowance/Rent Supplement (HARS): 40 rental units with private landlords, including four victims of domestic violence, for a five year period, ending March 31, 2013. Affordable Home Ownership: assisting 75 low to moderate income households purchase re-sale homes in Chatham-Kent. In most cases we assisted first time home buyers enter the private housing market.
Table 31: Affordable Housing Program (AHP) Funding Summary Supportive Supportive Supportive Program Total Mental Domestic Physically Funding Units Health Violence Disabled Received 41 40 75 3 N/A N/A 4 4 N/A 16 N/A N/A $4,030,000 $384,000 $276,000 Admin Funding Received $75,000 $37,440 $26,685
Program Capital, Rental and Supportive Housing Allowance Rent Supplement Home Ownership Sub-totals
156 3 8 16 $4,690,000 $139,125 (Used for admin of Social Housing Renovation & AHP/SHRRP $200,000 Retrofit Program: hired Eng Tech on contract 09-11) Totals 156 3 8 16 $4,690,000 $339,125 Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Housing Services Report January 11, 2012.
As a result of the implementation of the HARS program, the wait time for one and two bedroom units in Chatham dropped from 16 to18 months down to between 8 and 12 months. The HARS program is set to lapse on March 31, 2013 unless the Ministry agrees to extend the program. The implementation of the Home Ownership program exceeded expectations in Chatham-Kent. Due to the lower cost of re-sale homes, the municipality was able to assist 75 households in the purchase of their first home (in Canada). The average purchase price of homes was just under $99,000. While there was some great achievements over the past few years in affordable housing in Chatham-Kent, particularity through the AHP program, stakeholders strongly emphasize a continued need for affordable housing in communities throughout the Municipality. 77
In 2011, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) executed the CMHC-Ontario Agreement for Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) 2011-2014 with the stated objective being to improve the living conditions of households in need by improving access to Affordable Housing off-reserve that is sound, suitable and sustainable. The IAH program will provide about half a billion dollars to Ontario in funding for six program components (Rental Housing, Homeownership, Northern Repair, Rent Supplement, Housing Allowance, and Ontario Renovates) from 2012 to 2015. The Program provides new flexibilities for Service Managers to determine which components of the Program to participate in and how much funding is directed to each component. Chatham-Kent is expected to receive $3,498,860 for the creation and repair of affordable housing over the next three years (starting in 2012 and ending March 31, 2015. Program Delivery and Fiscal Plans (PDFPs) are required to be submitted for approval by February 29, 2012. The Chatham-Kent PDFP was endorsed by Council on January 30 2012 and submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing on January 31, 2012. The projected plan includes 12 new rental units, 37 re-sale ownership unit and one new build ownership unit, and 40 rent supplement units (maintained from previous funding program to be funded for an additional three years). In addition, the plan projects assisting 312 home owners repair or modify their homes or rental units, or creating new residential units such as secondary or garden suites through the (Ontario) Chatham-Kent Renovates Program. 6.6 Summary of Social Housing Social Housing Stock Declines Since the 2006 Housing Study, the social housing portfolio in Chatham-Kent decreased from 1,817 units to 1,592 units. Over this time, three federal housing projects paid out their mortgages thereby ending their operating agreements. Thus reducing the social housing stock by 225 units (these units were mixed; just over half of them were one-bedroom units). As well there have been two unilateral federal social housing projects (Tilbury Centential ILM and Maple City) go into receivership and were subsequently sold. These projects had been administered by CMHC. There is one remaining federally administered cooperative in Chatham-Kent (Nova Housing). In addition, while not an overall increase to the social housing stock, there was an increase in the public housing stock (i.e. stock managed by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent) of 100 units. In 2007, the Wallaceburg Housing Corporation was sold and transferred to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent resulting in a transfer of 100 units from the non-profit housing stock to the public housing stock. Social Housing Waiting List Increasing Especially for Seniors From December 2005 to December 2010 the social housing waiting list increased by 105 households. As of May 2011 there were 353 households on the waiting list. The proportion of seniors on the waiting list has increased from 11.5% in 2005 to onethird of the households in May 2011. This is primarily a result of the Municipality 78
considering seniors as 50 years and over as part of the cascading age policy. It is also likely in part due to the aging of the population. In addition, there are more support agencies providing supports to seniors living independently and therefore more seniors are aging in place longer. Waiting lists for long-term care homes (in particular for basic rooms which are more affordable) are growing and some seniors may be attempting to manage on their own longer with supports in place. High Vacancy Rates for Family Units Have Decreased but Remain High In general, vacancy rates remain lower (approximately 2%) for adult and seniors buildings with higher vacancy rates in family units. Vacancy rates for family units were at about 15% as of early 2011, rates reported in the 2006 Housing Study were at about 24%. Two-thirds of the current family unit vacancies are within Wallaceburg. Vacancies for family units in Wallaceburg have traditionally been higher in particular for the Wallace Street location. With the economic downturn in the area, many of the other family sites in Wallaceburg have started to fill up and it is anticipated that vacancies at Wallace Street may start to decline with a lack of other options. Typically, residents prefer not to live at the Wallace Street residence due to its location; many potential applicants have expressed the sentiment that its location is not conducive to how they want to raise their families. Wait Times Getting Longer Smaller Unit Sizes Wait times indicate that there is considerable demand for one and two-bedroom units within the Municipality. For most areas, wait times for one-bedroom units have increased by about four to six months. Wait times for seniors units have also increased; in most cases from minimal wait to at least four to six months. More Affordable Housing Units as a Result of AHP As a result of the Affordable Housing Program, Chatham-Kent has seen an increase of 59 affordable home ownership units, 17 affordable rental dwellings (including 3 supportive housing units for persons with mental illness and 4 supportive housing units for women of domestic violence), and 40 housing allowances rent supplement units (including an additional 4 supportive housing units for women of domestic violence).
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7.0 Special Needs Housing

Special needs housing is generally defined as the integration of housing and support services. The Province defines special needs housing as housing, including dedicated facilities, in whole or in part, that is used by people who have specific needs beyond economic needs, including but not limited to, needs such as mobility requirements or support functions for daily living (Provincial Policy Statement, 2005). Special needs housing is housing for persons who need some form of support to maintain their health and their wellbeing. Special needs housing can be provided in various forms including, but not limited to, temporary housing for persons in crisis, housing with supports provided on site such as group homes and retirement homes, and housing where supports are brought into an individuals home. The following sections provide an overview of the current demand and supply for special needs housing in Chatham-Kent. 7.1 Emergency and Transitional Housing There are currently two emergency shelters serving the Chatham-Kent area. One is located in Chatham (Chatham-Kent Womens Centre) and the second is located in Walpole Island (Three Fires Womens Centre). While Walpole Island is located in Lambton County it serves residents of Chatham-Kent as well. Since the 2006 report, Chatham-Kents Womens Centre (CKWC) has opened a transitional housing facility, Nancys Place, for women and children who are victims of domestic violence. The Chatham-Kent Womens Centre recently (June 2011) completed an expansion and were able to increase the total number of beds to 32, an increase of five beds from 2005. Overall the number of women and children served by CKWC has increased. Staff have also indicated that over the past few years the average length of stay has increased due to increased wait times for social housing and a lack of safe and affordable housing in the community. Staff also noted an increase in the number of clients with mental health and/or substance abuse issues along with experiences with violence seeking assistance from CKWC In general, the shelter tries to accommodate all women and children that come to the shelter but an average of six to seven families are transferred to another shelter each year. Nancys Place has been in operation since 2008 and provides temporary housing as well as support services (i.e. counselling) to women and their children. To date, they have not had to turn women away due to capacity. It was noted, however, that in some cases it is difficult to provide space for larger families (i.e. women with four children) as a result of occupancy restrictions per unit. All women who have stayed at Nancys Place have been able to secure housing upon leaving the program.
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The 2006 Housing Study noted a lack of transitional housing in the Municipality. Youth, males, women fleeing abuse and persons with addictions were populations noted to be in need of transitional housing. At Three Fires Womens Centre, while the supply of beds has not changed, they are seeing an increase in demand. Often they have to turn women away due to capacity limitations. They are hoping in the future to be able to expand the number of bedrooms they have and offer transitional housing as well. Many of the women who stay at Three Fires need to stay for extended periods of time in order to obtain housing on the Reserve. The Chatham-Kent Womens Centre also provides transitional counselling and support to assist women and children re-establish themselves in the community. This Transitional Housing Support Program (THSP) includes assistance with understanding abuse and relationships, housing assistance, legal referral services, and budgeting skills. Counselling is provided to women across Chatham-Kent.
Table 32: Overview of Emergency and Transitional Housing Supply, Chatham-Kent 2010 Provider and Number of Beds Needs Served/ Support Services Occupancy Rate and Length of Stay 50% Number of Clients
Nancys Place
Abused Women and their children - 2nd stage housing - Counselling Abused women and their children - Shelter -Counselling Abused women and their children -Counselling -Counselling for children -Advocacy -Outreach -24 hour crisis line
2008: 3 women; 7 children 2009:6 women; 11 children
5 units 10 beds Chatham-Kent Womens Centre
8 months 1 year
2010: 3 women; 3 children 2011: 3 women; 6 children
Generally at capacity Usually six weeks
2005:212 2010:298 (208 women plus 87 children) 2011:313 (169 women plus 144 children *Stats based on April 1st to March 31st Varies
32 Beds Three Fires Womens Centre
Generally not at capacity Usually six weeks
4 units 16 beds
81
Provider and Number of Beds
Needs Served/ Support Services
Occupancy Rate and Length of Stay Usually at capacity
Number of Clients
CMHA
Persons with developmental disabilities -Housing -Case management -One home provides 24 hours supports Low income individuals and families
Generally at capacity
9 beds (8 transitional + 1 emergency)
Generally 6 months
Salvation Army Family and Housing Services
N/A
2005: 159 2006: 164 2007: 209 2008: 233 2009: 245 2010: 228
Does not have units, refer to motels
2011: 112 (to date June 30/11) -Homelessness and emergency housing -Housing Support Services -Emergency assistance programs -Budget management -Youth support services -Local motels -Provides housing information and view housing -Provides ongoing housing lists Usually 2-3 night stay (up to 7 nights)
Source: Survey of Supportive and Emergency Housing Providers, 2011
In addition to dedicated emergency and transitional housing units, the Salvation Army Family and Housing Services provides emergency assistance (including referrals to motels for short-term accommodation) and housing support. Generally individuals would stay in the motels for a couple days and would be referred to Ontario Works for 82
assistance. Since 2005, the number of referrals has increased from 159 in 2005 to 228 in 2010. The number of referrals peaked in 2009 at 245. As of July 2011, the Salvation Army has referred 112 persons to motels for emergency housing. Most of the individuals served continue to be men representing approximately 65% of clients served in 2010.
Figure 58: Number of Clients Served by the Salvation Army, 2006-2010
180 160 140 155 156 149 149
Number of Clients
120 100 80 60 40
121 96
77
45
79
44 52
43
43
54
41 4
20
0
5
2006
0 2007
1 2008
4 2009
8 2010
Children (15 years) Youth (16 to 21 years) Men Women Seniors (65 years and over)
Source: Survey of Supportive and Emergency Housing Providers, 2011
Emergency service providers noted affordability challenges for youth, newcomers and seniors. Stakeholders have also noted a lack of emergency housing and emergency services for men in the community. Survey respondents and workshop participants also emphasized a need for housing for youth (transitional and affordable).
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Case Study - Peel Youth Village, Mississauga, Ontario Peel Youth Village is a mixed-use development that incorporates housing with a community centre. The residential component provides safe, stable, transitional housing and support services for homeless youth aged 16 to 30 years. There are 48 single rooms with 32 rooms that are clustered into groups of four and these clusters are called houses. Each house shares a kitchen, washrooms, and a common lounge. The remaining 16 rooms have either one or two beds and are intended for short term stays. The residential areas are designed to take advantage of social supports and community building interaction. The community centre services residents as well as the surrounding neighbourhood. There are recreation opportunities and social services, such as employment and life skills counselling.
Emergency service providers also noted a need for new funding to keep up with the need in the community. Staff at CKWC noted that many women who experience domestic violence do not seek help from the shelter and therefore staff are working hard at getting the community more involved to help address this issue and provide more support to women and children. Stakeholders also noted that while Nancys Place has been a positive development in Chatham-Kent there is still a continued need for transitional and affordable housing for single women coming out of abusive relationships in the area. 7.2 Supportive Housing
While there are no new supportive housing providers since the 2006 Housing Study was completed there have been some changes to the overall supply. Community Living Wallaceburg is now operating 40 twenty-four hour supportive housing beds; an increase of 15 beds from 2006. They are also currently providing support to 46 persons who are living independently (currently own, rent or live with family), and employment support to 15 individuals. There is a waiting list of nine people for the supportive housing beds located in several group homes and ten people waiting for supports who are living independently in their own home or with a family. Community Living Chatham-Kent also increased its overall supply by 21 beds since 2006. Community Living Chatham-Kent built a new home in 2007 and in 2009 bought a new home for residents. Despite these increases in supply, the waiting list for beds has increased from 31 in 2005 to 66 currently. Given the extremely low turnover in such units (usually only when a current resident passes away), the wait time can be long. Often the wait time for supportive housing such as that provided by Community Living is dependent on new funding to build new beds for individuals in need. In addition to providing 87 beds, Community Living Chatham-Kent also provides supports to 115 individuals currently (July 2011) in their own home. There has been no change in the number of beds provided by the Ontario March of Dimes, although they have experienced an increase in their waiting list. March of 84
Dimes does have 12 new units at Riverview Terrace (a seniors building built with funding under the Affordable Housing Program), however these units were moved from a previous location. The Westover Treatment Centre in Thamesville provides housing and support to persons 16 years and older who suffer from or have been affected by the problems of substance abuse. They currently have 22 funded beds plus three fee-for-service beds. They have an application in to the Erie St. Claire LHIN to increase their number of funded beds. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) experienced a decline in their number of units (by 12) since 2005. CMHA sold one of their group homes, Lorne House, as a result of no further funding for this home. In addition to their transitional home, they now operate two group homes for persons with mental illness on a long-term basis. In addition to supportive housing located within the Municipality, Brentwood Recovery Home for Alcoholics (Windsor) provides housing and support to residents of ChathamKent. Brentwood currently operates 120 residential beds and many support programs. They provide housing to approximately 730 clients per year, approximately 14% of the population served is from Chatham-Kent (about 102 clients/year).
Table 33: Overview of Supportive Housing Needs Support Number Served Services of Beds Individuals -Case 16 beds with mental management in two illness -Housing homes Supply, Chatham-Kent 2010 Number of Waiting List Clients 2002: 14 Generally at 2003: 19 capacity 2004: 30 2005: 28 2011: 16 plus 61 rent supplement clients 2005: 18 2006: 18 2007: 18 2008: 18 2009: 18 2010: 18 2005: 66 2011: 202* *87 beds plus 115 independent support
Provider Canadian Mental Health Association
Wait Times N/A
Ontario March of Dimes
Adults with physical disabilities
Support with daily living activities
18 onebed units
Community Living ChathamKent
Individuals who have an intellectual disability and in some cases a physical disability
-Community -Day -Employment -Residential -Respite
87 beds
2005: 9 2006: 11 2007: 11 2008: 12 2009: 14 2010: 14 2005: 41 2011: 66* *for supportive housing beds only
Varies
There is no specific wait time
85
Community Living Wallaceburg
Individuals with intellectual disabilities
Westover Treatment Centre
Individuals who suffer from or have been affected by the problems of substance abuse Individuals recovering from alcohol abuse
-24 hr supported accommodation -employment support -Respite -Support with daily living -Enhanced specialized services -24 hr supported accommodation -Family support - Aftercare - Addictions support
40 beds
2005: 25 2011: 101* *40 supportive housing, 46 independent support, and 15 employment support
2005: 0 2011: 19* *9 for supportive housing, 10 independent support
There is no specific wait time
Brentwood Recovery Home for Alcoholics
Approximately 730 clients per year approx. 105 clients from Chatham-Kent Source: Survey of Supportive and Emergency Housing Providers, 2011
-Personal care -Outreach -Aftercare program -Counselling
22 funded beds (including 2 no wait beds) Plus 3 fee for service beds 120 beds
Generally at capacity (25 clients)
Generally at capacity
6-8 weeks for Substance Dependent Program Up to 3 months for coDependence Program 2 weeks
Similar to findings in the 2006 Housing Study, a number of stakeholders noted a lack of affordable and accessible housing as a key challenge facing persons with special needs in the Chatham-Kent area. Stakeholders also expressed long waiting lists for supportive housing as gap in the area and emphasized that more funding was needed to provide additional services. Stakeholders also noted a need for more support for persons with mental illness. Supportive of findings from the 2006 Housing Study, workshop participants indicated a continued need for additional support services for some persons receiving social assistance. In some cases individuals and families are in need of additional lifeskill support (i.e. budgeting, positive parenting, healthy eating), counselling, and referral support in order to gain the necessary skills to maintain their tenancy and/or their home. Support needs for persons with brain injuries were also identified by Stakeholders at the New Beginnings Club and Brain Injury Association of Chatham-Kent. It was expressed that such individuals are often not capable of living safely on their own due to behavioural or wandering issues. Often the only option for individuals is to apply for a secured unit in a long term care facility. When the injured person is young, however, a long-term care facility is not appropriate and does not provide the support 86
that an individual needs for rehabilitation. In other cases, individuals are put on a waiting list for a facility in London, which means they must leave their community and often their family support. Also identified and supported in 2006 Housing Study findings, is the need to ensure support services are accessible to rural residents. While there have been some enhancements to public transportation it remains challenging for individuals, particularly seniors and persons with disabilities who live in rural areas, to access the services they need. In some cases the housing may be more affordable, but access to services is more challenging than in urban areas. 7.3 Student Housing As reported in the 2006 Housing Study, there are two major post-secondary educational institutions in Chatham-Kent; St. Clair College and Ridgetown College of Agriculture and Technology (which is also a Guelph University Campus). Enrolment at St. Clair College Thames Campus has increased from 872 students in the Fall of 2005 up to 1,300 in the Fall of 2010. Original forecasts, reported in the 2006 Housing Study noted that the College expected enrolment to be about 1,500 by 2010. Since the 2006 Housing Study, the campus has developed a student residence of 48 townhouse rooms which are at capacity with a waiting list. At this point there is no intention to expand. Enrolment at Ridgetown College has remained the same at about 500 full-time students. They also continue to house 250 students in single and double rooms which are at full capacity. 7.4 Aboriginal Housing The Municipality of Chatham-Kent had a total Aboriginal population of 2,715 in 200610; an increase of 630 from 2001. The Moravian Reserve had a total population of 412 in 2006. Although not located in the Municipality, Walpole Island First Nation Reserve is located close to the Municipality within the County of Lambton. The population of this Reserve was 1,878 in 2005. Additional Statistics Canada data identifies a total of 945 Aboriginal-led households (primary household maintainer with Aboriginal identity). Of these households approximately 34% are within Chatham, 23% are within Wallaceburg and 32% are located in the rural areas (areas outside the primary and secondary urban areas).
10
Including the Moravian Reserve.
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Aboriginal-led households had a greater proportion of households in the lower income deciles compared to the Municipality as a whole. Approximately forty-six percent of Aboriginal households earned less than $33,134 in 2005 (compared to 30% for the Municipality as a whole).
Figure 59: Income Deciles for Aboriginal Households, Chatham-Kent, 2005
20.0% 18.0% 16.0% 14.0% 12.0% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0%
16.9% 160
10.6% 100
19.0% 180 10.1% 95

9.0% 85 8.5% 80
6.9% 65
5.8% 55
6.9% 65
6.3% 60
Income Deciles
Stakeholders identified that some Aboriginal persons living in social housing may be in need of additional support services. As mentioned, some social housing tenants, including Aboriginal persons, may require some additional supports (i.e. life-skills, referral services, counselling) to help them maintain their home. In addition, there are nine former Rural and Native Housing Program units and five former Rural and Native Housing Program home ownership units owned and operated by Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services in the district. These units are not administered by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. 7.5 Housing for New Canadians Overall, Chatham-Kent has a lower proportion of immigrants when compared to the Province. In 2006, approximately 10% of the Chatham-Kent population was comprised of immigrants compared to 28.3% for the province. About 1% of the immigrant population arrived between 2001 and 2006.
88
Figure 60: Immigration Status and Period of Immigration, Chatham-Kent, 2006

120.0% 100.0%
Percent of Immgrants
NonPermanent Immigrants, 10.1% Residents, 0.4%
9.9%
80.0% 60.0% 40.0% 20.0% 0.0% Before 1991
15.80%
74.3%
NonImmigrants, 89.5%
1991 to 2000
2001 to 2006
Source: Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit, Chatham-Kent 2010 Health Status Report, 2011
Source: Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit, Chatham-Kent 2010 Health Status Report, 2011
In general, there is some diversity among the incomes of new immigrant households. While there is a slightly higher than average proportion in the first decile (13.5% for recent immigrants compared with 10% for the Municipality as a whole) the distribution of incomes until the 7th decile is fairly proportional to the overall population. There are not, however, as many new immigrant households in the upper income deciles, in particular the tenth decile, compared with households overall.
Figure 61: Income Deciles for Recent Immigrant Households, Chatham-Kent, 2006
20.0% 18.0% 16.0% 14.0% 12.0% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0%
13.5% 35 15.4% 40 9.6% 25 3.8% 10 13.5% 35 17.3% 45 9.6% 25 9.6% 25 3.8% 10
Percentage of Households
5.8% 15
Income Deciles
7.6 Seniors Housing 7.6.1 Seniors Age Distribution and Projections As outlined within the demographic profile, the population in Chatham-Kent is aging. As of 2006, there were 17,625 persons over the age of 65 (about 16% of the population).
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By community, there were a total of 10,900 senior households in 2006. Most (43.4%) of senior households were located in Chatham with another ten percent located in Wallaceburg.
Table 34: Households Age 65+ by Community, 2006 Community # % Blenheim 500 4.6% Chatham 4,730 43.4% Dresden 305 2.8% Ridgetown 420 3.9% Tilbury 440 4.0% Wallaceburg 1,165 10.7% Wheatley 265 2.4% Bothwell 95 0.9% Charing Cross 60 0.6% Merlin 45 0.4% Mitchells Bay 45 0.4% Pain Court 30 0.3% Thamesville 145 1.3% Rural Areas 2,645 24.3% Chatham-Kent 10,900 100.0% Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 2006
With the exception of the 70 to 74 age category, all age groups over the age of 50 years increased between 2001 and 2006. Some of the greatest increases occurred in pre-retiree age groups of 50 to 64 years; suggesting the aging of the population will continue. Overall there were 38,490 persons over the age of 50 in 2006 comprising about 36% or just over one-third of the total population. From 2001 to 2006, the number of persons over the age of 50 increased by 4,325 persons.
Figure 62: Distribution of Adults Ages 50 and Over, Chatham-Kent, 1996-2006
8,010
5,960 7,325
4,635 4,930
Population
4,060
4,270 4,175
3,000 2,000 1,000 0
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
75-79
80-84
Age Groups
1996 2001 2006
Source: Statistics Canada, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
1,695 1,885
85+
2,090
2,140 2,245
4,000
2,760
5,000
3,080 3,540
3,545
6,000
4,675 4,340
4,810
7,000
5,100 5,730
5,885
8,000
7,330
9,000
90
Population projections indicated that by 2031 the number of persons over the age of 55 years will increase to 42,662, which would comprise about 36% of the total population. It is anticipated that the number of persons between the ages of 55 and 74 years will peak in 2021 at just over thirty thousand followed by a decline in 2031. These trends, as previously indicated, point to the need to provide an appropriate range of housing forms and supports to meet the needs of Chatham-Kents current and future senior population.
Figure 63: Population Projections for Adults Ages 55 Years and Over, 2006-2031
27,941
35,000
22,593
30,000
Population
25,000 20,000
24,408
25,421
30,715
10,000 5,000 0 55-75 Age Groups 2006 2009 2011
8,551
8,993
75+
2021
2031
Source: Watson & Associates Economists Ltd., 2011
7.6.2 Seniors and Tenure The proportion of senior households over the age of 65 increased between 2001 and 2006 by 5.8%. Seniors are likely staying in their homes longer as a result of increased supports into the home either through family members or support services provided by local agencies. As seniors reach 75+ years, they are more likely to enter into the rental market. Longer waiting lists for long-term care beds (basic units) may also be contributing to seniors maintaining their homes longer.
9,107
15,000
10,730
14,721
91
Figure 64: Housing Tenure of Seniors in Chatham-Kent, 1996-2006

79.8% 80.5%
79.7% 80.3% 78.9% 81.5%
80.0%
70.0% 60.0% 50.0%
66.0%
73.2%
90.0%
76.4%
34.0%
20.3%
20.2%
19.7%
21.1%
19.5%
30.0% 20.0% 10.0%

0.0% 1996 2001 Owners 55 to 64 Years 2006
1996
2001 Renters
2006
65 to 74 Years
75 and Over
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 1996, 2001, and 2006
7.6.3 Household Income of Senior Households The majority, approximately two-thirds of seniors (aged 65+) in Chatham-Kent, were earning less than $30,000 in 2005. This is largely a result of seniors living on fixed incomes. Given increasing costs to maintain homes, many of these seniors are likely facing affordability challenges.
Figure 65: Distribution of Income (In Constant 2005 Dollars) for Seniors Aged 65+, Chatham-Kent, 2000 and 2005
Precent of Senior Population
35.7%
40.9%
50% 40% 30%

7.1% 6.6%
21.7%
26.0%
14.3%
6.5%
7.6%
4.1%
5.4%
2.6%
20%
10%
12.8%
18.5%
23.6%
2.0%
40.0%
26.8%
0%
2000
2005
1.2%
1.3%
92
2.1%
2.1%
By tenure, senior renter households are more likely to be in the lower income deciles (i.e. first to third deciles) when compared to senior owner households. In addition, seniors for both tenure groups over the age of 75 are more likely to be in the lower income deciles. Many of these seniors would likely be on a fixed income.
Figure 66: Senior Renters by Age and Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006
45.0% 40.0% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
28.5% 40.4% 13.9% 14.5% 19.3% 18.0% 34.8%
20.3% 13.6%
Percent of Renters
9.1% 10.6% 11.2%
9.5% 7.7% 8.0%
6.4% 4.3% 3.2%
4.7% 2.9% 1.2%
4.1% 1.0% 1.6%
3.4% 3.4% 2.8%
Income Deciles 55-64 65-74

75 and over
Figure 67: Senior Homeowners by Age and Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006
19.6%
25.0%
Percent of Homeowners
15.1% 12.0%
14.9%
14.5% 11.7%
11.8% 12.6% 9.5%
12.4% 9.2% 7.2%
11.5% 9.7%
10.0%
10.2%
15.0%
5.5%
5.9% 3.3%
5.5%
10.0% 5.0%
0.0%
7.7%
9.0%
9.3%
11.1%
14.8%
20.0%
20.9%
Income Deciles 55-64 65-74

75 and over
4.3% 3.1%
3.9%
3.7%
0.0% 1.9% 0.0%
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7.6.4 Seniors Subsidized Housing Section 6.0 summarizes the social housing portfolio for seniors as well as waiting list statistics. As a summary, the following Table provides a breakdown of the social housing stock in Chatham-Kent designated as seniors:
Table 35: Summary of Housing Providers for Seniors in Chatham-Kent, 2011 Number Number Special Number One Two of of Needs Community of Units Bedroom Bedroom Projects Buildings (Modified)3 Chatham Wallaceburg Ridgetown Chatham Chatham Blenheim 4 Communities 1 1 1 3 1 1 8 Projects 2 1 1 1 1 1 7 Buildings 50 35 12 67 35 35 234 Units 50 35 12 42 24 25 188 One Bedroom 0 0 0 25 11 10 46 Two Bedroom 0 0 0 0 2 2 4 Special Needs (Modified)
Housing Provider CK Public Housing CK Public Housing1 Ridge Marsh Manor1 Christian Seniors2 Evangel Villa2 Legion Villa2 5 Housing Providers
1. CK Public Housing and Ridge Marsh Manor are 100% RGI portfolios 2. Christian Seniors, Evangel Villa and Legion Villa have mixture of RGI and Market Rents 3. Special Needs/Modified Units are units designated as such under the Social Housing Reform Act (SHRA): units are modified for accessibility.
As of May 2011, one third of the wait list was comprised of seniors. The increase in the number of seniors on the wait list is in part a result of the aging of the population as well as a result of the Municipality considering seniors as 50 years and over as part of the cascading age policy. In addition, staff at the Municipality indicated that there are more support agencies providing supports to seniors living independently and therefore more seniors are aging in place longer. Waiting lists for long-term care homes (in particular for basic rooms, which are more affordable) are growing and some seniors may be attempting to manage on their own longer with supports in place. The Municipality has also recently completed a 27 unit affordable housing building with 15 units for seniors and 12 units for clients of March of Dimes.
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7.6.5 Retirement Housing for Seniors Retirement homes are privately owned and operated rental housing residences. They offer minimal to moderate levels of on-site support such as meals, homemaking, and personal care. Overall, the number of retirement home beds has increased from a total of 658 to 686, an increase of 28 beds since 2004. There has been a shift to more one-bedroom private units and fewer semi-private and ward beds compared to 2004 statistics.
Figure 68: Distribution of Retirement Home Beds by Type, Chatham-Kent, 2004 and 2011
100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
74.3% 545
86.9% 596
Percent
23.4% 172 3.5% 24
2.3% 17
9.6% 66
Semi Private & Ward
Private/Studio
Bed Type 2004 2011
One Bedroom
Source: CMHC Retirement Homes Report, 2004; CMHC Senior's Housing Report, 2011
Average monthly rents are shown below. Rates have increased since the 2006 Housing Study for semi-private rooms (by $86/month) and private studios (by about $110/month). However, rents for one bedroom units have decreased by $172/month since the 2006 Housing Study.
95
Figure 69: Average Rent by Retirement Home Bed Type, 2009-2011

$3,500 $3,000 $2,500 $2,000 $2,288 $1,679 $2,369 $3,002 $2,830 $2,398
Rent
$1,765
$1,500 $1,000 $500 $0 2009 2010 Year Semi Private & Ward Private/Studio One Bedroom 2011
Source: CMHC Senior's Housing Report, 2009, 2010 & 2011 Note: 2010 data for Semi Private/Ward and One Bedroom is supressed to protect confidentiality
The overall vacancy rate for retirement homes in Chatham-Kent was at 11.1% in 2011; up from the previous two years. This is consistent with provincial rates of 16.4% in 2010 and 15.7% in 2011. Most of the vacancies were for private/studio units ranging in monthly rent from $2,000 up to $2,500.
Table 36: Retirement Home Vacancy Rates by Bed Type, Chatham-Kent and Ontario, 2009-2011 Bed Type Semi Private & Ward Private/Studio One Bedroom Two Bedroom Total ** 8.6% 13.8% -9.9% 2009 Chatham -Kent Ontario 19.4% 12.6% 13.9% 16.1% 13.3% ** 5.6% ++ -7.5% Year 2010 Chatham -Kent Ontario 21.5% 14.8% 19.1% 16.8% 16.4% ++ 10.9% 5.2% -11.1% 2011 Chatham -Kent Ontario 26.0% 14.70% 16.20% 18.70% 15.70%
Source: CMHC Senior's Housing Report, 2010 & 2011 ** Suppressed to protect confidentiality ++ Not statistically reliable -- No units exist in universe for this category
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Table 37: Retirement Home Vacancy Rates by Rent Range, Chatham-Kent, 2009-2011 Rent Range $2,000 or less $2,001 - $2,500 $2,501 - $3,000 $3,001 - $3,500 $3,501 and more Total spaces where rents are known Year 2009 19.4% 6.5% 13.1% 8.3% -9.3% 2010 ** 5.9% ** ** -7.5% 2011 ++ 13.3% 2.9% ++ ** 11.1%
Source: CMHC Senior's Housing Report, 2010 & 2011 ** Suppressed to protect confidentiality ++ Not statistically reliable -- No units exist in universe for this category
7.6.6 Long-Term Care Homes Long-term care (LTC) homes are facilities for individuals requiring personal and nursing care, meals, and support services. The number of LTC homes/beds has remained unchanged from the 2006 Housing Study at a total of seven homes and 847 beds.
Table 38: Overview of LTC Homes, 2011 LTC Home Location Number of Beds Blenheim Community Village Blenheim 65 Copper Terrace LTC Facility Chatham 151 Fairfield Park Wallaceburg 99 Meadow Park Nursing Home Chatham 97 Tilbury Manor Nursing Home Tilbury 75 Riverview Gardens Chatham 320 The Village Ridgetown 40 Source: Community Care Access Centre Ontario, List of Long-Term Care Homes in Chatham-Kent, 2011
As of August 2011, a total of 118 clients were waiting for a long-term care bed. The 2006 Housing Study reported a waiting list of 90 individuals. Most of the persons waiting are females, consistent with 2006 trends.
97
Table 39: Trends in the Waiting List for Long-Term Care Facilities, As of August 2011 Bed Application Waiting List as of August 2011 Basic Male 34 Basic Female 71 Private Male 9 Private Female 9 Semi-Private Female 3 Semi-Private Male 4 Total Unique Clients* 118 Source: Erie St. Clair Community Care Access Centre, 2011 *1 client may have multiple bed applications
While showing a decline from 2010 to 2011, wait times are typically longer for basic rooms (for both males and females). The longest wait time for beds in 2011 was for females seeking a basic room (199 days). Wait times are shorter for private and semiprivate rooms. This is due to affordability reasons where many seniors cannot afford the costs for private and semi-private rooms.
Figure 70: Trends in Average Waiting Times for Long-Term Care Facilities, July 2009-July 2011
Average Number of Days Waiting
350 300
250
329 286 271 204 171 103 58 36 15 Jan-09 Jan-10 Period

Basic - Female Private - Female Semi-Private - Female
200 150 100 50 0
207
199 153 107 84 22 5 Jan-11
Basic - Male Private - Male Semi-Private - Male Average Wait Time for All Admissions*
Source: Erie St. Clair Community Care Access Centre, 2011 *1 client may have multiple bed applications
Staff at Riverview Gardens noted that there are long wait times for individuals needing a basic room. Many of the seniors in the area have low incomes (i.e. less than $20,000) and are unable to afford rents. Staff also noted that there are some residents with developmental delays who do not require 24-hour support who may be better suited to a group home or other housing form with some support services.
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7.6.7 Other Supportive Housing for Seniors The Red Cross Homemaker services provides supportive housing for seniors in two buildings in Chatham-Kent. They have a total of nine units including three accessible units. These units are generally at capacity. 7.6.8 In-Home Supports for Seniors
Table 40: Erie St. Clair Community Care Access Centre Caseload by Age, 2007-2011 Age Group 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 Under 55 Aged 55 to 65 Over 65 Total 6,628 3,605 15,050 25,283 7,164 3,744 15,281 26,189 7,260 3,748 14,678 25,686 7,034 3,818 15,217 26,069
Source: Erie St. Clair Community Care Access Centre, 2011
7.6.9 Supply and Demand for Seniors Housing The following Table summarizes the housing supply of seniors in Chatham-Kent.
Figure 71: Demand and Supply for Seniors Housing
45,000 40,000 35,000 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0
42,662 31,144
Number
14,720
3,765
686
847
249
Seniors Seniors Owner Renter Retirement Population - Population Senior Senior Home Beds 2006 2031 Households Households
Long Term Care Beds
Social Housing For Seniors
Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census and Custom Tabulations based on 2006 Census; Watson & Associates Ltd., 2001; CMHC Senior Housing Report, 2011; Municipality of Chatham-Kent Housing Services Division Note: A "senior" is considered to be 55 years or older
As of November 2011, there were also 27 additional seniors units at Riverview Terrace. 7.6.10 Summary of Special Needs Housing
Nancys Place Responding to Need Nancys Place has been in operation since 2008 and has provided temporary housing as well as support services (i.e. counselling) to women and their children. To date, they have not had to turn women away due to capacity. All women who have stayed at Nancys Place have been able to secure housing upon leaving the program. 99
Emergency Housing and Service Referrals Increasing The Salvation Army Family and Housing Services, provides emergency assistance (including referrals to motels for short-term accommodation) and housing support. Since 2005, the number of referrals has increased from 159 in 2005 to 228 in 2010. The number of referrals peaked in 2009 at 245. Loss of Supportive Housing for Persons with Mental Illness Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) sold one of their group homes (12 units), Lorne House, as a result of no further funding for this home. Stakeholders emphasized housing for persons with mental illness as a continued need in the community. Further, it is noted that there are some social housing tenants who have mental health challenges and/or substance abuse issues who do not have adequate supports in place to assist them. Supply of Supportive Housing for Persons with Developmental Disabilities Increased Although Still Strong Demand Community Living Wallaceburg and Community Living Chatham both expanded the supply of housing for persons with developmental disabilities by 15 and 21 beds respectively. Given the extremely low turnover and increasing waiting list, however, wait times will remain long without new units. Need for Accessible Housing Emphasized Respondents of the Special Needs Housing Survey indicated a strong need for affordable and accessible housing in the area. There have been no increases to the number of units provided by March of Dimes or the number of accessible units within Social Housing Stock for persons with physical disabilities. However, 12 March of Dimes clients have recently (November 2011) moved into the new Riverview Terrace facility. Aboriginal Population Increasing The population of Aboriginal households increased by 30%, or 630 households, from 2001 to 2006. Many Aboriginal households are facing affordability challenges. Approximately forty-six percent of Aboriginal households earned less than $33,134 in 2005 (compared to 30% for the Municipality as a whole). Majority of Seniors (aged 65+) in Chatham-Kent Earning Less than $30,000 Approximately two-thirds of seniors (aged 65+) in Chatham-Kent were earning less than $30,000 in 2005. Further, seniors aged 75 and over were more likely to be in the lower income deciles (i.e. first three deciles) and earning less than $33,134; over seventy-percent in 2005. Many of these seniors would have likely been on a fixed income. In general, as seniors age the more likely they are to be in the lower income deciles.
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Range of Housing Options Needed for Seniors Aging in place continues to be a key direction for senior government policy. In particular, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has placed an emphasis on keeping people in their homes and within their communities. Housing options and support services need to be available in order to facilitate seniors remaining in their homes. Demand for Basic Accommodation in LTC Homes Continues to Increase As of August 2011, there were a total of 118 clients waiting for a long-term care bed. This is an increase of 90 applicant reported in the 2006 Housing Study. The majority of persons waiting for an LTC bed are waiting for basic rooms (89%).
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8.0 Housing Affordability Analysis

Housing is the single largest monthly expenditure for most households. Research has shown that housing affordability is a problem disproportionately faced by lower income households although it is also an issue faced by some moderate income households who opt to spend a large proportion of their income on housing in order to move from the rental market to the home ownership market. Housing affordability is a critical element in the social well-being of all residents, and an adequate supply of affordable housing greatly contributes to the creation of complete and more economically viable communities. Measuring housing affordability involves comparing housing costs to a households ability to meet those costs. Income and wages are used as a measure of housing affordability. Housing is generally, considered affordable if shelter costs account for less than 30% of before-tax household income. The following sections provide a review of current housing affordability in ChathamKent as well as changes in overall affordability levels of households since the 2006 Housing Study. 8.1 Home ownership Affordability The following section provides a review of home ownership affordability, including trends in mortgage rates, incomes of homeowners, an analysis of proportion of income spent on housing costs, and an analysis of home ownership affordability by income decile. 8.1.1 Trends in Mortgage Rates Since the 2006 Housing Study, interest rates increased to 7.54% in 2007 followed by a steady decline reaching 5.19% as of 2010.
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Figure 72: Mortgage Interest Rates, (1992=100), 1996-2010

20% 18% 16% 14% 12% 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0%
Mortgage Rate
8.1.2 Income of Home Owners The average household income for homeowners in Chatham-Kent was $72,148, an increase of 12.6%, in 2005. The median household income was $62,310, an increase of 11.9%.
Figure 73: Average and Median Income for Chatham-Kent Homeowners, 1995, 2000, and 2005
$64,091
$60,000
Income
$50,000
$40,000
$30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0 1995 Average 2000 Median 2005
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 1996, 2001 and 2006
$49,684
$70,000
$55,493
$55,699
$62,310
$72,148
$80,000
1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Year 1-Year Conventional Mortgage Rate* 5-Year Conventional Mortgage Rate*
Source: Bank of Canada, Data and Statistics Office, 2010
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The following Figure illustrates the distribution of income by decile for homeowners. As income increase, so does the percentage of owners falling within the higher income ranges. Over one-third (38.2%) of homeowners earned more than $75,259 in 2005.
Figure 74: Distribution of Income for Homeowners Chatham-Kent, 2005
16.0%
14.0% 12.0% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0%

5.1% 7.0% 7.8% 9.2% 10.0% 11.0%
11.7%
12.2%
12.7%
13.4%
Income Deciles
8.1.3 Ownership Affordability by Income Spent on Shelter Statistics Canada defines income spent on shelter as the proportion of a households average monthly total household income that is spent on owners major payments, in the case of owner-occupied dwellings, or on gross rent, in the case of tenant-occupied dwellings. This percentage is calculated by dividing the total shelter related expenses by the households total monthly income and multiplying the result by 100. These expenses include the monthly rent or the mortgage payment and the costs of electricity, heat, municipal services, property taxes and other shelter-related expenses.11 Households spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing, therefore, are considered to be facing affordability challenges. In 2005, about 15% of households spent more than thirty percent of their income ownership housing costs. This is up slightly from the 2001 Census, which showed 12.5% of homeowners were spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs in 2000.
11
Statistics Canada 2006 Census Dictionary
104
Figure 75: Proportion of Income Spent on Ownership Costs, 2005

100.0%
85.2%
80.0%
60.0% 40.0% 20.0%
9.3%
2.3%
3.3%
0.0%
Less than 30% 30% to 49% 50% to 69% 70% and over
Income Spent on Ownership Costs

Source: Statistics Canada; Custom Tabulations, 2006
Similar to findings with trends outlined in the 2006 Housing Study, a comparatively higher proportion of lone parent families and single person households were spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing costs.
Figure 76: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Homeowners
74.5% Percent of Households
90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30%
6.3%
71.8%
77.5%
100%
92.0%
90.4%
90.1%
17.3%
15.8%
13.7%
4.6%
5.0%
3.1%
1.1%
10% 0% Less than 30%
30% to 49%
50% to 69%
70% and over
Percentage of Income Spent on Ownership Payments One-family households: Married/Common-law without children One-family households: Lone parents Non-family households: One person only One-family households: Married/Common-law with children Multiple family and Other family households Non-family households: Two or more persons
8.1.4 Home Ownership Affordability by Income Decile In 2005, eighty percent of owner households in the first income decile (earning less than $15,845) were spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing. In general, once households reached the sixth income decile (i.e. earning at least $51,083 in 2005) they were likely not experiencing affordability challenges. 105
1.1%
1.6%
2.1%
1.2%
1.5%
3.9%
20%
5.7%
6.9%
6.8%
7.8%
Figure 77: Percentage of Household Income Spent on Home Ownership Costs by Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006
$116,724+ $91,704-$116,723 $75,259 - $91,703 $62,404-$75,258 $51,083 - $62,403 $41,854 - $51,082 $33,135 - $41,853 $24,378 - $33,134 $15,846 - $24,377 $15,845 and under
Income Decile
99.3% 98.4% 98.0% 96.1% 92.3% 85.8% 75.5% 72.9%

53.6% 46.4%
0.7% 1.6% 2.0% 3.9% 7.7% 14.2% 24.5% 27.1% 80.5%
19.5%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Percentage of Homeowners <30% 30% or more

Using average sales prices, the home ownership market is generally affordable to households in the fourth income decile (i.e. earning $46,872 or more annually) and higher. As shown in Section 4.3, however, there are some limited options available to households at all income levels. The Affordable Housing Program, Home Ownership Component, provided an opportunity for low to moderate income households (i.e. second to fourth income decile) to purchase re-sale homes in Chatham-Kent and enter the home ownership market. The new Investment in Affordable Housing Program (2012-2015) will provide further opportunities for first time home buyers to enter the private market in Chatham-Kent.
106
Figure 78: Comparison of Average Housing Cost to Affordable Housing Cost by Household Income Deciles, Chatham-Kent, 2011
$500,000
$450,000 $400,000 $350,000
Apartment/Condo =$122,688
$451,143 $399,887
$367,467
House Price
$300,000
$250,000 $200,000
$150,000
Not Affordable
Single-Detached House =$149,854 Semi-Detached House =$153,766 Row/Town House =$165,400
$258,504
$211,897
$173,765
$100,000 $50,000 $0
$71,827
$139,543 $107,083
Household Income
So urce: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 2006;Chatham-Kent MPAC Sales, 2011; SHS Calculations based o n 30% o f inco me for housing costs Note: 2011 Income deciles are based on SHS cacluations
8.2 Rental Housing Affordability The following section provides a review of rental housing affordability, including incomes of renters, an analysis of proportion of income spent on rental costs, and rental affordability by income decile. 8.2.1 Income Ranges for Renter Households As of 2005, the average income for renters was $35,106; less than half the average income of homeowners. The median household income for rents was $28,810 in 2005.
107
Figure 79: Average and Median Income for Chatham-Kent Renters, 1995, 2000 and 2005
$32,652
$29,103
$30,000
Income
$25,000
$20,000 $15,000 $10,000
$5,000
$0 1995 2000 Year Average Median 2005
Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations,1996, 2001 and 2006
In contrast to trends identified in the ownership market, when looking at the distribution of income by deciles, for renters, the trend shows a higher proportion of renters earning incomes in the lower deciles with a lower proportion of renters in the higher income deciles. Almost one quarter of renters fell within the first income decile and earned less than $15,845 in 2005. Over half (57.9%) of renter households fell within the first three deciles and earned less than $33,134 in 2005.
$23,900
$35,000
$26,347
$28,810
$40,000
$35,106
108
Figure 80: Distribution of Income for Renters Chatham-Kent, 2005

25.0%
23.6% 18.3%
Percent of Renters
20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0%
16.0% 12.0% 10.0% 7.4% 5.4% 3.8%
2.8%
0.7%
0.0%
Income Deciles
8.2.2 Rental Affordability by Income Spent on Rent Just over forty percent (42.2%) of renter households in 2005 were spending more than thirty percent of their income on rent. This is up slightly from 41.6% in 2000. The number of households spending more than 50% of their income on rent declined from 19.5% in 2000 to 16.6% in 2005.
Figure 81: Proportion of Income Spent on Rent
70.0% 60.0%
57.9%
Percent of Renters
50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Less than 30% 30% to 49% 50% to 69% 70% and over Income Spent on Rent
25.6%
9.2%
7.4%
Similar to trends in the ownership market, lone parent families and single person households face the highest proportion of affordability challenges compared to other household types. Almost 15% of lone parent families and 12.2% of single person families were spending more than 50% of their income on rent. 109
Figure 82: Gross Rental Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Renters
75.1% 75.2%
90%
80% 70%
48.0%
69.9%
60% 50% 40%
46.8%
80.0%
31.3%
16.9%
13.3%
14.6%
20%
10%
2.7%
3.8%
3.5%
12.2%
30%
18.1%
24.7%
30.1%
0% Less than 30% 30% to 49% 50% to 69%
One-family households: Married/Common-law without children One-family households: Lone parents Non-family households: One person only
One-family households: Married/Common-law with children Multiple family and Other family households Non-family households: Two or more persons
8.2.3 Rental Affordability by Income Decile In 2005, eighty-six percent of renter households in the first income decile (earning less than $15,845) were spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing. Not surprising, as income increases, it is less likely a household is spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing. In general, once households reached the fifth income decile (i.e. earning at least $41,854 in 2005) they were not experiencing affordability challenges. It is the households, therefore, in the first four income deciles that require further assistance in attaining and maintaining affordable housing.
110
0.0%
Figure 83: Percentage of Household Income Spent on Rental Housing Costs by Income Decile, Chatham-Kent, 2006
$116,724+ $91,704-$116,723 $75,259 - $91,703 $62,404-$75,258 $51,083 - $62,403 $41,854 - $51,082 $33,135 - $41,853 $24,378 - $33,134 $15,846 - $24,377 $15,845 and under 100.0% 98.4% 96.7% 99.2% 100.0% 97.0% 87.2% 64.5% 23.1% 13.4% 76.9% 86.6% 35.5% 0.0% 1.6% 3.3% 0.8% 0.0% 3.0% 12.8%
Income Decile
0%
20%
40% 60% Percentage of Renters <30% 30% or more
80%
100%
So urce: Statistics Canada,Custom Tabulations, 2006
In general, based on average market rents, the private rental market becomes affordable to households in the second income decile. There may be some opportunities for one-bedroom units for households within the upper end of the first income deciles; a one-bedroom unit would be affordable to households earning $23,520 based on the average market rent provided by CMHC. Based on average market rents single persons on OW and ODSP would not be able to afford the private rental market. Based on the proportion of renters in the first and second income deciles, approximately 40% of renters could not afford the private rental market. Many of these households are either living in some form of subsidized housing or are experiencing affordability challenges and spending more than 30% of their income on rent. Such affordability challenges are further exacerbated if utility costs are over and above the rents charged, which can further impede households from entering the private rental market. Importantly, while Chatham-Kent continues to have numerous requests for assistance with energy payments, the issues behind the requests are caused by the fact that Ontario Works and ODSP rates are not high enough to cover the costs of living. Many rental units do not include energy costs and the maximum shelter allowances are far below market rental rates. The modest increase to the shelter allowance for Ontario Works each year does not match the increase in the energy rates. This makes it extremely challenging for those in receipt of Social Assistance to find appropriate ,
111
affordable housing and making the need for additional affordable Social Housing units in Chatham-Kent necessary. Also of note, starting March 1, 2012 Chatham-Kent Hydro will be called Entegrus. Since the 2006 Housing Study, Entegrus has changed their billing cycle from a two month bill to a one month bill. This has for the most part been a very positive change for Ontario Works recipients. This allows them to budget monthly for these payments and the arrears payments are more manageable. Also in October 2010 the Ontario Energy Board made some changes that are very positive for this client group. Security deposits can no longer be required by energy providers for eligible low income families. eligible low-income customer means residential electricity customers who have a pre-tax household income at or below the current pre-tax Low Income Cut-off, according to Statistics Canada, plus 15% as confirmed by a social service agency or government agency accepted by the Board for this purpose. This would automatically include all Ontario Works and ODSP clients. The Ontario Energy Board also introduced an Arrears Payment Agreement, which assists low income customers with paying their arrears rather than face disconnection of the utility. These changes have assisted OW and ODSP clients in avoiding disconnects and, according to staff, there has been a noticeable decrease in the numbers of clients facing disconnection in Chatham-Kent.
Figure 84: Comparison of Average Market Rents (AMR) to Affordable Rents by Household Income Deciles, Chatham-Kent, 2011
$3,500 $3,000
Monthly Rent
$2,500 $2,000
AMR (1 Bdrm) =$588
AMR (2 Bdrm) =$684
$3,042 $2,478 $2,697
$1,500 $1,000 $500 $0

$409
Not Affordable
AMR (3 Bdrm) =$694
$1,743 $1,429
$1,172
$722 $474 $484
$941
Household Income
So urce: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulations, 2006; CMHC Ontario Rental Market Report, 2010; SHS Calculations based on 30% of income for housing costs; Ontario Works Act 1997, Amended 2010; Ontario Disability Support Program, Directive 6.2: Shelter Calculation. March 2011 Note: 2011 Income deciles are based on SHS cacluations; OW and ODSP Shelter Alowance are for 1 Bedroom units
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8.3 Affordability by Household Type and Size A well functioning housing system provides adequate, safe, accessible, adaptable and affordable housing to meet the needs of all households and removes barriers to enhance access to housing for these groups. Looking at diverse population groups that may be experiencing affordability challenges in the ownership market, about one-quarter of lone-parent (24.7%), single person (27.8%), and youth led (27.9%) households were spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing costs in 2005. Recent immigrants had the highest proportion of owner households spending more than 30% of their income on rent at one third in 2005.
Figure 85: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Diverse Groups
84.0%
72.3%
90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
70.8%
69.6%
63.0%
61.5%
80.2%
16.8%
15.6%
19.0%
25.9%
10.3%
12.2%
8.8%
8.3%
7.9%
8.9%
7.4%
Less than 30%
30% to 49% Percentage of Income Spent on Ownership Payments
50% and over
Lone Parents Youth Led Household (<25 Years) Recent Immigrant One of More Members of Household Have Activitiy Limitations
Single Person Senior Led Household (>65 Years) Aboriginal
In the rental market, half of most diverse population groups are spending more than 30% of their income on rent; this includes lone parents (51.9%), single persons (52.9%, youth led (58.5%), senior led (50.3%) and households where one or more persons have activity limitations. Over one-quarter of youth led households were spending more than fifty percent of their income on rent in 2005, followed by 23% of single person households, and 21% of lone parent renter households.
3.9%
5.5%
6.6%
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Figure 86: Rent Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Diverse Groups
80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
68.0%
Percent of Renters
51.9%
47.9%
46.4%
48.8%
49.1%
39.4%
39.4%
31.2%
29.9%
29.7%
33.3%
27.8%
20.6%
22.9%
28.8%
Less than 30%
30% to 49% Percentage of Income Spent on Rent
8.0%
50% and over
Lone Parents Youth Led Household (<25 Years) Recent Immigrant One of More Members of Household Have Activitiy Limitations
Single Person Senior Led Household (>65 Years) Aboriginal
While the following two Figures further illustrate the affordability challenges faced by lone-parent and smaller households it should be noted that a number of families in Chatham-Kent are experiencing affordability challenges in both the ownership and rental markets. In 2005, ten percent of households comprised of couples with children were spending more than 30% of their income on housing costs and onequarter of renter households comprised of couples with children were spending more than thirty percent of their income on rent. For a further breakdown of household payments as a percentage of household income by household type and size refer to Appendix A.
Figure 87: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Household Characteristics
100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
90.4%
90.1% 92.0%
74.5%
71.8%
77.5%
17.3%
15.8%
13.7%
10.9%
12.0%
12.4%
16.5%
17.3%
6.3%
6.8%
5.7%
3.3%
3.2%
8.2%
Less than 30%
30% to 49%
50% and over
Percentage of Income Spent on Ownership Payments Couples without children Multiple-families Couples with children One-person only Lone parents Two or more persons
2.3%
10.8%
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Figure 88: Rent Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income for Selected Household Characteristics
90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
69.9% 80.0% 46.8%
75.1% 75.2%
Percent of Renters
48.0%
31.3%
24.7%
30.1%
16.9%
18.1%
13.3%
8.3%
6.7%
20.7%
5.5%
23.1% 4.0%
3.2% 4.4%
Less than 30%
30% to 49%
50% and over
Percentage of Income Spent on Rent Payments Couples without children Multiple-families Couples with children One-person only Lone parents Two or more persons
In general, as household size increases, fewer households are experiencing affordability challenges (i.e. spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing costs or rent).
Figure 89: Gross Ownership Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income by Household Size
88.4% 91.0%
100.0% 90.0% 80.0% 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0%
71.7%
88.2%
87.4%
89.4%
15.8%
8.2%
7.7%
7.3%
6.0%
7.8%
12.3%
3.8%
Less than 30%
30% to 49%
50% and over
Percentage of Income Spent on Ownership Payments

1 Person 2 Persons 3 Persons 4 Persons 5 Persons 6+ Persons
2.8%
4.6%
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Figure 90: Rent Payments as a Percentage of 2005 Household Income by Household Size
72.6%
90.0%
67.4%
Percent of Renters
70.0%
60.0%
50.0% 40.0%
46.9%
61.4%
80.0%
67.1%
78.6%
30.2%
27.5%
28.0%
13.7%
10.8%
30.0%
20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Less than 30%
18.7%
19.4%
21.4%
23.2%
9.1%
2.4%
30% to 49% Percentage of Income Spent on Rent Payments
50% and over
1 Person
2 Persons
3 Persons
4 Persons
5 Persons
6+ Persons
8.4 Affordability by Wage Rates For housing to be affordable, a household should not be spending more than 30% of its gross household income on housing costs. In 2010, a person earning the minimum wage would have to work 212 hours per month to be able to afford the average market rent in Chatham-Kent. This means that this person would have to work approximately 10.5 hours Monday to Friday (based on twenty day work month); higher than one person would generally be expected to work (based on a 40/hour work week). Individuals earning minimum wage therefore would either need to work extra hours (i.e. more than one job) or share accommodation to ease the affordability gap.
0.0%
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Figure 91: Number of Work Hours Required to Maintain Affordable Rental Housing Costs at Minimum Wage, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2010
$700
255 255 254
300
235 212
Average Monthly Rent
250 200 150
$650
$652 $618
$600
$594
$612
$610
100
50
0
$550 2006 2007 2008 Year Average Monthly Rental Cost 2009 2010
Number of Hours Required to Work for Rent to be Affordable per Month

Source: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, Minimum Wage Database, 2011; CMHC Rental Market Report, 2006-2010
8.5 Summary of Housing Affordability in Chatham-Kent Renters More Likely to be Experiencing Affordability Challenges Generally speaking, renters earn less than home owners. They are households that often for affordability reasons are unable to enter into the home ownership market. The average income of renter households ($35,106) in Chatham-Kent is less than half the average income of home owners. Moreover, over forty percent (42.2%) of renter households were experiencing affordability challenges (i.e. spending more than thirty percent of their income on rent) compared to 14.9% of homeowners who were paying more than thirty percent of their income on housing in 2005. Many Renters Still Unable to Afford Average Market Rents Despite comparatively low average market rents, approximately 40% of renter households are unable to afford (based on spending less than thirty percent of their income on rent) the private rental market. In order to afford (based on spending thirty percent of household income on rent) a one-bedroom unit, based on CMHC average market rents, an individual or family would need an annual income of approximately $23,520. For the growing caseload of persons in receipt of OW and ODSP, the private rental market is out of reach. Many rental units do not include energy costs and the maximum shelter allowances are below market rental rates. The modest increase to the shelter allowance for Ontario Works each year does not match the increase in the 117
Hours Worked
energy rates making it extremely challenging for those in receipt of Social Assistance to find appropriate , affordable housing making the need for additional affordable Social Housing units in Chatham-Kent necessary. The Investment in Affordable Housing (2012-2015) program provides an opportunity for additional funding to create more opportunities to meet the housing needs of households in the lower income deciles (i.e. first and second deciles). Given the number of renters with affordability challenges this is valuable program that can help further assist some of the households most in need of financial support. Average House Prices Affordable to Households in Fourth Income Decile Using average sales prices, the home ownership market is generally affordable to households in the fourth income decile (i.e. earning $46,872 or more annually) and higher. As shown in Section 4.3 and based on Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) data, there are options available to households in the lowest income levels (below the 30th income decile). Given the age of the housing stock in Chatham-Kent it is likely that the more affordable (by price) home ownership units are older stock, and while the price may seem affordable, many of these homes would have higher utility and maintenance costs making them less affordable to households in the lower income deciles. Programs such as Ontario Renovates are important as this funding can be used to improve the efficiency of the home making them more affordable and providing a greater opportunity for families to maintain their home. Based on MPAC data, in 2011, almost forty-five percent of sales were affordable to households in the third and fourth deciles (earning between $107,083 and $173,765); representing just twenty percent of households. Households in the top three deciles (representing thirty percent of households) had just under two percent of the sales within their affordable house range. Importantly, the upcoming Investment in Affordable Housing Program (2012-2015) has the potential to assist some first time home buyers as well as low and moderate income households that may not have otherwise had the opportunity to enter the homeownership market. Some Population Groups Experiencing Higher than Average Affordability Challenges Looking at population groups which may be experiencing affordability challenges in the ownership market, about one-quarter of lone-parent (24.7%), single person (27.8%), and youth led (27.9%) households were spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing costs in 2005. Recent immigrants had the highest proportion of owner households spending more than 30% of their income on rent at one third in 2005.
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In the rental market, half of several diverse population groups are spending more than 30% of their income on rent; this includes lone parents (51.9%), single persons (52.9%, youth led (58.5%), senior led (50.3%) and households where one or more persons have activity limitations (50.7%). Over one-quarter of youth led households were spending more than fifty percent of their income on rent in 2005, followed by 23% of single person households, and 21% of lone parent renter households.
Table 41: Summary of Affordable Rents and Affordable Housing Cost in Chatham-Kent, 2011
Household Income ODSP OW LICO ($17,906) 1st Decile ($19,375) 2nd Decile ($28,885) 3rd Decile ($37,641) 4th Decile ($46,872) 5th Decile ($57,158) 6th Decile ($69,730) 7th Decile ($99,122) 8th Decile ($107,867) 9th Decile ($121,693) Affordable Monthly Rent $409 $474 $448 Under $484 $722 $941 $1,172 $1,429 $1,743 $2,478 $2,697 $3,042 1 Bedroom $588 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable 2 Bedrooms $684 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable 3 Bedrooms $694 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable House Price $60,650 $70,289 $66,381 $71,827 $107,083 $139,543 $173,765 $211,897 $258,504 $367,467 $399,887 $451,143 Apartment/Condo $122,688 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable SingleDetached $149,854 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable SemiDetached $153,766 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Row/Townhouse $165,400 Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Not Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable Affordable
Source: CMHC Rental Market Report, 2011; Statistics Canada Custom Tabulations, 2006; Chatham-Kent MPAC Sales, 2011; SHS Calculations Note: ODSP, OW, and LICO are calculated for a 1 person household.
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9.0 Summary of Changes in Housing Needs

The 2006 Housing Update summarized thirteen current housing issues to form the basis of the recommended strategies. These are summarized below along with an update on their current status based on the above analysis.
Housing Issues 2006 Housing activity is not keeping pace with growth projections and should be monitored
Current Trends
There needs to be a greater emphasis on smaller units
The overall housing stock in Chatham-Kent is older than provincial stock and should be monitored
Fluctuating labour market points to need for flexible housing supply
Based on projections, there will need to be an average annual increase of 194 new units over the 2011 to 2031 period which is slightly higher than the average number of building permits issued over the past nine years (174 units/year). While permits are almost keeping up with projections, activity by type has not shown much diversification. By density, projections indicate that 74% of new units will be low density, 16% will be medium density and 10% will be high density. Over the past five years (2005-2010) housing starts for single-detached dwellings have averaged about 80% of all starts signaling a need for further diversification. Smaller households and aging of the popualtion further emphaize the need for a diverse and flexible housing stock. The housing stock in Chatham-Kent remains older than the average for the provincial stock as a whole and had seen less new development since the last Census period. Just 2.7% of the stock was built between 2001 and 2006; compared to 9.2% for the Province. Almost half the rental stock was built prior to the 1980s. Unemployment rates in Chatham-Kent have remained high over the 2009-2011 period, peaking at 15.2% in October 2009. Recent figures show improvements with a rate of 8.4% as of September 2011. The recent economic downturn resulted in considerable job loss. In addition, stakeholders noted that many new jobs in the area are lower paying jobs than the ones lost in the downturn (largely in automotive manufacturing). 120
Housing Issues 2006
Current Trends
A range of housing and support service options are needed for the aging of the population, especially those at the lowest income ranges
Home ownership options for low income individuals should be explored
Vacancy rates in Chatham-Kent are decreasing but remain high in private rental and some social housing units.
Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program caseloads have both experienced an increase from the 2006 Housing Study. The aging of the population will continue with forecasts estimating that over one-third of the total population will be over the age of 55 by 2031. Many seniors are staying at home longer and looking for supports in the home. This is consistent with provincial directions, which are emphasizing more aging at home options for seniors. Waiting lists for affordable long term care are growing as are waiting lists for senior social housing units. A strong proportion of seniors remain within the lower income deciles; approximately two-thirds of seniors (aged 65+) in Chatham-Kent were earning less than $30,000 in 2005. Ownership has increased in Chatham-Kent; this is in part due to an increasing proportion of owned semis, rows and apartments and not solely a result of new supply. Given the economic downturn, landlords may be prompted to sell thus removing their units from the rental market or given high vacancy rates decided to convert to condominiums. Based on average house prices, the home ownership market is affordable t o households in the fourth income decile (i.e. earning $46,872 and higher). Further analysis of MPAC data show that there were sales at all income decile affordability levels. Using funding from the Affordable Housing Program Homeownership Program 75 new affordable housing units were built in ChathamKent. Social housing units saw vacancy rates decline for adult and seniors buildings while vacancy rates remain higher for family units particularly in Wallaceburg. Vacancy rate in the private market remain high 121
Housing Issues 2006
Current Trends
Low income households, in particular those on OW and ODSP are currently facing affordability challenges
at about 7%. Areas outside Chatham and Wallaceburg have slightly lower vacancy rates at about 5%. Given high vacancy rates and the continued need for affordable housing, stakeholders emphasize a need to work with private landlords to encourage them to work with the Municipality and support agencies in the provision of affordable housing. Vacancy rates in the social housing stock point to an oversupply of family housing in Wallaceburg. Given fairly high vacancy rates and continued wait list for some type of social housing units, additional rent supplement units should be considered and limited new rental units. Similar to findings in 2006, approximately forty percent of renter households are spending more than thirty percent of their income on rent. For persons earning less than $23,520 (just less than twenty percent of households) including single persons on OW and ODSP the private rental market would be out of reach. New data on income deciles suggests that several population groups are experiencing higher rates of affordability challenges. Such households include lone parents, single persons, youth, Aboriginals, and households where one or more persons have activity limitations. Many rental units do not include energy costs and the maximum shelter allowances are below market rental rates. The modest increase to the shelter allowance for Ontario Works each year does not match the increase in the energy rates making it extremely challenging for those in receipt of Social Assistance to find appropriate , affordable housing making the need for additional affordable Social Housing units in Chatham-Kent necessary. Rural area residents have a higher average household income when compared to the Municipality. While there have been some improvements to 122
Rural residents are facing barriers accessing necessary services
Housing Issues 2006
Current Trends
There is a strong demand for support services for some social housing tenants
There is a need for more accessible units throughout Chatham-Kent
public transportation, access to services remains a challenge for individuals, in particular seniors and persons with disabilities, to access the services they need. Stakeholders emphasized a continued need for support services for some social housing tenants. At times some residents may experience various challenges (addictions/substance abuse, mental health issues, hoarding, housecleaning/lifeskills) and additional support programs would be helpful to both tenants and housing providers. Stakeholders did emphasize a continuing need for accessible housing units within the Municipality. Current custom tabulation data indicates that 38.7% of households in 2005 had one or more members experiencing activity limitations. There have been a number of improvements to the accessibility of the social housing stock. Riverview Terrace, completed in November 2011 included 27 barrier-free apartments including 12 fully modified units. Population projections by age suggest that the need for accessible units will increase with the anticipated further aging of the population. An Affordable Housing Program project (Remmcor - 2008). added 12 affordable units including 4 that are fully accessible. Community Living Wallaceburg and Community Living Chatham both expanded the supply of housing for persons with developmental disabilities by 15 and 21 beds respectively. Given the extremely low turnover and increasing waiting list, however, wait times will remain long without new units. In addition to housing for persons with developmental disabilities the Housing Study Update also points to a need for additional supportive housing for persons with mental illness and/or addictions issues. New transitional units were added for women, yet stakeholders point to continued need for 123
There is currently a long waiting list for housing for persons with developmental disabilities
There is a need to monitor the demand for emergency and transitional housing throughout
Housing Issues 2006 the Municipality, especially for youth, males, and women
Current Trends
affordable and transitional housing for single women fleeing abusive relationships. Emergency service providers continue to note a lack of services for youth and men. Stakeholders continue to highlight need for funding for emergency and supportive housing and services.
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10.0 Summary of Achievements and Current Status of Recommendations

There have been many achievements in housing since the 2006 Housing Study, in particular the successful implementation of the Affordable Housing Program. Chatham-Kent was successful in assisting 75 households enter into the private home ownership market (with the vast majority being first time home buyers) and in adding 41 rental and supportive housing units. As well, 40 new housing allowance/ rent supplement units were created. The 2006 Housing Study was also critical to launching a Habitat for Humanity affiliate. In October of 2009 Habitat for Humanity Canada - Chatham-Kent (HFHC-CK) obtained affiliate status. Currently an Employment and Social Services Supervisor is the Vice President of the Board and Chair of the Family Selection Committee. CFHC-CK recently (October 2011) announced a donation of land and anticipates starting to build in the Spring of 2013. Responding to some of the needs of youth and newcomers, the Municipality has hired a Youth and Immigrant Coordinator. A key aspect of this position is to attract newcomers and retain the Municipalitys youth population. An initiative underway is the Newcomer Portal Project aimed at attracting and supporting new immigrants to Chatham-Kent. The 2006 Housing Study highlighted issues related to seniors housing and high vacancies in some buildings. In response, the Municipality implemented its Cascading Age Policy in 2006. In addition, a number of educational activities have been underway in the Municipality. These include a homeowner seminar hosted in partnership with CMHC, a seniors housing survey, a Healthy and Active Living Community Forum, as well as a number of ongoing advocacy initiatives. The full set of 57 recommendations is outlined in Appendix E highlighting all progress over the past five years.
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11.0 Housing Directions and Actions 2012-2022

11.1 Policy Context The Chatham-Kent Housing Study Update has been developed within the context of relevant provincial legislation as well as key local existing and proposed policy.
Housing Services Act
CK Official Plan and Growth Analysis CK Community Strategic Plan
Provincial Policy Statement Investment in Affordable Housing Program Local Health Integrated Nework Home First Strategy CK Healthy Community Initiatives
Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy
CK Cultural Master Plan
CK Parks and Rec Master plan
CK Transportation Master Plan
Provincial Policy: Long Term Affordable Housing Strategy It is a goal of the LTAHS to consolidate Ontarios Housing and Homelessness programs to give municipalities more flexibility in addressing their local needs. Amendments to Planning Act include requiring municipalities to establish policies allowing second units in new and existing developments, and adding affordable housing as a matter of provincial interest. One of the new requirements for Service Managers is to have Housing and Homelessness Plans. These Plans must include an assessment of current and future housing needs; objectives and targets relating to housing needs; a description of measures proposed to meet objectives and targets; and a description of how progress towards meeting the objectives and targets will be measured. The Plan must have a minimum 10-year horizon and a requirement to review every five years.
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Housing Services Act The Strong Communities through Affordable Housing Act (2011) has been enacted. The Strong Communities through Affordable Housing Act repeals and replaces the Social Housing Reform Act (2000) with the Housing Services Act (2011) as well as includes amendments to the Planning Act and the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). The Housing Services Act is a key part of Ontarios Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy. Provincial Policy Statement The Provincial Policy Statement (2005) requires municipalities to provide a full range of housing types and densities and requires municipalities to establish minimum targets for the provision of affordable housing. The Ontario Housing Policy Statement (2011) is intended to provide further direction to Service Managers to support the development of their Housing and Homelessness Plans. Policy directions include: ensuring a coordinated approach to delivering a system of housing and homelessness services; including strategies to reduce gaps (including short and long-term housing targets) and increase awareness and access to affordable and safe housing; providing measures to prevent homelessness and support people to stay in their homes; including the non-profit and private sector in planning; ensuring plans assess the needs of persons with disabilities, victims of domestic violence, Aboriginal persons (off-Reserve), and other local groups reflective of the evolving demographics of the community; and ensuring a commitment to improve the energy efficiency of existing and future publicly funding housing stock. Investment in Affordable Housing for Ontario The new bilateral agreement with the federal government for the Investment in Affordable Housing for Ontario (IAH) program will provide about half a billion dollars to Ontario in funding for six program components (Rental Housing, Homeownership, Northern Repair, Rent Supplement, Housing Allowance, and Ontario Renovates) from 2012 to 2015. The Program provides new flexibilities for Service Managers to determine which components of the Program to participate in and how much funding is directed to each component. Program Delivery and Fiscal Plans (PDFPs) are required to be submitted for approval by February 28, 2012 and funding is for the period from 2012 to 2015. Local Health Integrated Network Home First Strategy The Local health Integrated Network (LHIN) Home First Strategy continues the provincial direction and focuses on keeping seniors safe in their homes for as long as possible with community supports. Local Policy: Growth Analysis A Municipal growth analysis is currently underway to prepare comprehensive municipal-wide population, housing and employment forecast update. The aim of this analysis is to guide decision making and policy development specifically related to 127
growth management, urban land needs, master plans and fiscal planning. Projections related to population and households have been incorporated into the Housing Study Update and used in the development of affordable housing targets. Official Plan The Municipality is currently undertaking a comprehensive review of its Official Plan. Results from the HSU will form a foundation for housing policies within the new/updated Official Plan. Community Strategic Plan The Community Strategic Plan will be the overarching strategic document for the municipality. The 2011 work plan outlines three key objectives for the Community Strategic Planning Committee (CSPC): communicate with Council and stakeholders on community focus areas of Health, Economy, Environment, Culture and Learning; inspire community action; and enhance capacity of committee members. While not one of the five focus areas for the Strategic Plan, housing, as one of the social determinants of health, is an important component in the overall health, vitality and sustainability of the Municipality. Cultural Master Plan The Cultural Master Plan outlines culture and tourism priorities for Chatham-Kent. Objectives include establishing a role for the Municipality in cultural planning project, conducting cultural mapping, establishing partnerships, and raising awareness of issues and activities. Attracting newcomers to the area and promoting cultural diversity is a strategic direction of Municipal Council; accordingly housing actions and targets need to promote a housing supply that can respond to this direction. Parks and Recreation Master Plan The Parks and Recreation Master Plan supports renewal and investment in parks, recreation facilities, and open space. The Plan strives to enhance the capacity of community organizations to contribute to recreation activities. Transportation Master Plan The Transportation Master Plan was adopted March 3, 2008. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent currently operates three of the four potential interurban transit routes. This provides access to public transit for approximately 75% of the geographic area of the Municipality. Roll-out of the fourth route is subject to public consultation and Council approval for budget considerations. All interurban vehicles are accessible. Healthy Community Initiatives In 2011 an amendment to the Chatham-Kent Official Plan was enacted which was aimed at reducing health inequities by addressing improvements in neighbourhood design, improving infrastructure, increasing the provision of accessible and affordable healthy food choices, transit, active transportation options, housing, and recreation 128
programs and facilities to support healthy lifestyles. In addition there was a Healthy Communities Forum Held in January 2011 where 180 delegates looked at ways to enhance the quality of life for citizens by focusing on health issues. The Public Health Unit is also investigating developing a comprehensive health strategy. 11.2 Chatham-Kent Housing Plan Framework Given the fundamental necessity for a range of housing within Chatham-Kent the Municipality is aspiring to create greater opportunities to respond to these diverse needs. The Chatham-Kent Housing Plan Framework takes into consideration both the local and senior government policy context, as well as the identified housing issues in Chatham-Kent in order to provide a structure for effectively and efficiently meeting these needs. The following diagram represents the Chatham-Kent Housing Framework. Each of its four key components (vision, targets, objectives, measures) is described in the following sub-sections. CHATHAM-KENT HOUSING PLAN FRAMEWORK
HOUSING VISION
Senior Govt Policy
HOUSING TARGETS 25% Affordable Housing (including 2% supportive) & 5% Accessible Housing Local Policy
HOUSING OBJECTIVES
Plan for Diverse Supply Improve and Maintain Supply Increase affordable Supply Ensure Emergency and Transitional Options Expand Range of Supports Promote and Educate
HOUSING MEASURES Housing Report Card & 5 year Official Plan and Housing Plan Reviews
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11.2.1
A Housing Vision for Chatham-Kent
On November 22, 2011, stakeholders gathered to collectively set a direction for housing in Chatham-Kent. Stakeholders included representatives from various support service agencies and non-profit organizations, housing providers, municipal staff, and the private sector. A housing vision resulted from this dialogue and is presented below. Achieving this vision calls for great leadership from the Municipality and strong dedication by all stakeholders. The housing vision for Chatham-Kent is: To provide residents of Chatham-Kent with a full range of housing choices that meet their diverse needs and promote a community of collaboration, acceptance, and pride. This range of housing includes accessible, affordable, safe and supportive housing. 11.2.2 Housing Targets
To support the vision of having a full range of housing choices, and to meet senior government regulations, it is recommended that the Municipality of Chatham-Kent adopt housing targets for new housing supply. Housing targets form the foundation for the development of housing actions. Importantly, these targets are aimed at creating new supply over and above the existing supply of affordable housing. The overall housing goal for Chatham-Kent is to achieve: 25% affordable housing, including 2% supportive housing 5% accessible housing (fully modified to meet Chatham-Kent Facility Accessibility Design (FAD) requirements) The housing targets are based on the income profile of the Chatham-Kents residents. Achieving these targets would address the needs of the additional households anticipated to make Chatham-Kent their home in the future. The number of new units to be constructed from 2011 to 2016 is based on Chatham-Kents household projections prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd., 2011. The targets assume that the tenure split that existed in Chatham-Kent in 2006; rental housing accounting for 30% of the total stock, is maintained for the future.
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The Municipality of Chatham-Kent uses the provincial definition of affordable housing as defined within the Provincial Policy Statement (2005). In Chatham-Kent this means that: Affordable rental housing is housing where monthly rental costs (excluding utilities) do not exceed 30 percent of the tenant gross monthly household income and is rented at or below the average market rent for a rental unit in the Municipality of ChathamKent. In 2011, this translates to rents of less than $637/month (less than average market rent) and households earning less than $24,480. Affordable ownership housing is housing where monthly housing expenses (including mortgage principle, interest and property tax but excluding insurance or utilities expense) do not exceed 30 percent of gross monthly household income and where the purchase price is at least 10% below the average purchase price of a resale home in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. In 2011, this translates to house prices of less than $124,859 (10% below average price) and households earning between $25,480 and $33,680. Using this methodology, it is recommended that 25% of new housing be affordable. In addition to an affordable housing target, and critical to ensuring a diverse range of housing, it is further recommended that a target of 2% of the new affordable housing stock be supportive (i.e. for persons with disabilities and/or seniors). Estimating the need for supportive housing is based on the need and demand going forward, stemming from literature, data, and/or waiting lists. The accessibility housing target is aimed at creating fully modified units in 5% of the new housing supply. These units would meet the requirements of Chatham-Kent Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS) (2006). Of note, in addition to the recommended accessibility target, the Ontario Building code requires 10% of units to be barrier-free. Barrier-free includes a level access path of travel and a bedroom and washroom on the same floor as the entrance in buildings greater than 3 storeys and 600 square metres in area. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), passed in 2005, builds on the Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ODA) 2001 with the creation of Standards Development Committees. The purpose of the AODA is to benefit all Ontarians by: developing, implementing, and enforcing accessibility standards in order to achieve accessibility for Ontarians with disabilities with respect to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures and premises on or before January 1, 2025. The AODA requires the establishment of Standards Development Committees to develop accessibility standards. Five standards development committees were established to develop standards in the following areas: customer service, transportation, information and communications, built environment, and employment. 131
These standards define measures, policies, and steps needed to remove barriers for persons with disabilities. A barrier means anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in all aspects of society because of his or her disability, including a physical barrier, an architectural barrier, information or communication barrier, an attitudinal barrier, a technological barrier, a policy or a practice. The Accessibility Standards for Customer Service came into effect January 1, 2012. Requirements for Transportation, Employment and Information and Communication will be phased in between 2012 and 2021. The proposed accessible built environment standard was issued for public review in July 2009. This standard has now been submitted to the Minister of Community and Social Services. 11.2.3 Housing Objectives
In support of the housing vision and to guide Chatham-Kents Housing and Homelessness Plans, six housing objectives have been identified. Plan for a diverse range of housing choices A range of housing choices are needed to accommodate the diversity of residents within the community. A diverse range of housing means ensuring the housing stock can accommodate an aging population, a variety of household types and sizes, a greater diversity of culture, a range of physical and mental disabilities, and can respond to fluctuations in these need (i.e. economic downturn, family crisis). Improve and maintain existing housing supply Chatham-Kent has an older housing stock. Often an aging housing stock can result in high maintenance and operating costs due to the lack of energy efficient designs and deterioration of a unit. Such increasing costs can create affordability challenges, especially for individuals and families on fixed incomes. In an area where there are high vacancy rates in the rental housing market, maintaining and improving the existing stock can help meet affordable housing needs without the high costs of new development. Increase supply of affordable housing There is a gap in meeting the housing needs of individuals and families in the lower income ranges. Many households are spending more than thirty percent of their income on housing and putting them at risk of losing their home. Waiting lists for social housing and caseloads of persons in receipt of social assistance are increasing. There continues to be a strong need in the area to increase the supply of affordable housing.
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Ensure availability of emergency and transitional housing options for residents Meeting the housing needs of all residents includes being able to respond to individuals and families in times of crisis or in times of transition. Promote expanding range of housing support services (in urban and rural areas)
A range of support services are needed for a safe, healthy and high quality lifestyle for residents. In addition, such supports can help residents maintain their home longer and stay in their community and close to support from family and friends. Promote, educate and create awareness of housing needs in Chatham-Kent The Municipality has an important role in educating community stakeholders in housing issues as well as in creating greater awareness to ensure an understanding and tolerant community. In addition to providing education and awareness to residents and community groups within Chatham-Kent, the Municipality has an important role in promoting the housing needs of Chatham-Kent residents to senior levels of government and other agencies to ensure collaboration in responding to housing needs. 11.2.4 Housing Measures
A requirement of the Housing Services Act, monitoring the housing stock is essential to ensuring the housing stock is responding to community needs and objectives and targets are being achieved. To ensure accountability, and meet the Housing Service Act requirement to monitor the housing targets, it is recommended that the Municipality publish and distribute an annual Housing Report Card to monitor community progress in achieving the housing targets and housing actions. The Housing Report Card will include such indicators as number of new units created (affordable, accessible, supportive, other), updated waiting list statistics, amount of funding and/or investments obtained towards housing, number of partnerships created, number of educational initiatives implemented etc. A sample Housing Report Card Template is provided in Appendix F. Other measuring systems/tools include the five-year reviews of the Official Plan as well as the new requirement that Housing and Homelessness Plans be reviewed every five years also. These reviews provide an important opportunity to re-assess the housing actions and update policies and recommendations as needed. The annual Housing Report Card will provide valuable insight for these reviews. Other measuring tools include additional reports such as workshop summary reports and additional research reports (i.e. building conditions reports). All of these achievements will also be noted in the annual Housing Report Card in order to monitor all housing actions and targets. 133
11.2.5
Housing Actions and Targets
Based on the above analysis of housing need and in consultation with community stakeholders, a series of actions and targets have been established which respond to the current housing issues facing Chatham-Kent.
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Objectives 1. Plan for a diverse range of housing choices
Context A diverse housing supply in terms of type and tenure is critical to meeting needs of current and future residents. Zoning bylaws contain a range of regulations and standards governing the development of land use within a Municipality. Zoning barriers which may restrict the development of affordable and supportive housing generally include provision of range of housing types, parking requirements, and distancing bylaws. Amendments to the Planning Act, as a result of the new Housing Services Act (2011) require that municipalities establish second suite policies in new and existing developments.
Recommended Actions and Targets 1. Incorporate and adopt the housing vision, objectives and targets (as outlined in the Housing Study Update) as part of the Official Plan review. 2. Eliminate zoning barriers that create restrictions for affordable and supportive housing development options.
Measures Official Plan Review
Official Plan Review Annual Housing Report Card
3. Include a policy as part of Official Plan Review, which permits second suites in all residential zones in accordance with appropriate planning criteria.
An important component of ensuring housing meets the needs of residents is an adequate supply of accessible housing in particular given the aging of the population within the Municipality. In addition to the 5% accessible housing target (fully modified as per ChathamKent Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS)), the Ontario Building Code requires that 10% of all new apartment units (exceeding 3 storeys) be barrier-free (bedroom and washroom on same floor as entrance, barrier-free
4. Adopt accessible housing targets as follows: 5% of new multi-unit housing units be accessible (fully modified to meet CK FADS)
Annual Housing Report Card Evaluate and update every five years to support Official Plan Review and Housing and Homelessness Plan review requirements.
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Objectives
Context path of travel from entrance to bedroom and bathroom)
Recommended Actions and Targets
Measures
2. Improve and Maintain Existing Supply
The Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) is being replaced with the new Ontario Renovates Program offered under the IAH program. Many municipalities have benefited from the RRAP program over the years through improvements to energy efficiency, accessibility, and affordability. This new version of the program will now become a responsibility of the Service Manager to administer (unlike previously where the program was typically administered by CMHC). Service Managers now have the responsibility of allocating funds, developing procedures and business processes, and the overall administration of loans. Council has approved Housing Services Recommendation to administer (Ontario) Chatham-Kent Renovates Program over fiscal years 2012-2015. In addition to efforts to create new affordable housing units, it is critical that the Municipality ensure service level standards continue to be met
5. Continue to participate in housing renovation funding programs.
Program Delivery and Fiscal Plan12 Annual Housing Report Card
6. Develop a plan to maintain service level standards as required by the Housing Services Act.
Service Level Standards Report Annual Housing
12
Chatham-Kent Program Delivery and Fiscal Plan was approved by Council on January 30, 2012.
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Objectives
Context despite diminishing funding levels. A service level standard plan would take into consideration expiring operating agreements, mortgage end dates, public housing debenture end dates, rent supplement agreement end dates, and overall diminishing federal funding. Service Level Standards are prescribed the Housing Services Act Regulations 367/11 Schedule 4: Item 3. Service Level Standards for Chatham-Kent is 1,365 RGI units including 747 high need units and 63 modified units. Building condition reports provide a summary of the overall state of a building and outline any needed repairs and/or renovations. 2006 Building Condition Assessment (BCA) and Reserve Fund Study (RFS) completed for Chatham-Kent municipal public housing portfolio and all private non-profit social housing providers funded by Chatham-Kent. Energized Building Condition Assessment (EBCA) and Reserve Fund Forecasts completed in 2011. Council added both public housing and funded private non-profit social housing to the municipal corporate lifecycle funding model/strategic plan for municipal infrastructure funding.
Measures Report Card
7. Continue to complete regular building condition assessments and commit funding to social housing reserves.
Building Condition Assessment Reports Annual Housing Report Card
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Objectives
Context Strategic management plans assess the existing condition of the stock, identify portfolio priorities, and provide consideration for replacement, intensification or disposition. Given the aging of the stock and expiring senior government operating agreements a strategic asset management plan can assist with identifying challenges and opportunities. Consistent with findings in the2006 Housing Study, the Housing Study Update points to continued vacancy concerns for family units in Wallaceburg. It is suggested that the Municipality evaluate options to address these concerns.
Recommended Actions and Targets 8. Develop a strategic asset management plan for social housing stock.
Measures Strategic Asset Management Plan Annual Housing Report Card
9. Investigate feasibility and appropriateness of selling family units in Wallaceburg to address vacancy concerns, and determine most appropriate reallocation of units to meet current and projected housing needs (while maintaining service level standards). 10. Adopt affordable housing targets as follows: 25% affordable housing, including 2% supportive housing
Summary report of analysis and options for addressing social housing vacancies in Wallaceburg Annual Housing Report Card Annual Housing Report Card (monitoring process) Evaluate and update every five years to support Official Plan Review and Housing and Homelessness Plan review requirements. Annual Housing Report Card
3. Increase Supply of Affordable Housing
It is a requirement under the PPS that Municipalities establish a target for affordable housing.
The development of housing that can meet the affordability needs of
11. Encourage linkages with various funding programs and municipal
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Objectives
Context households in the lower income ranges often requires funding from a number of sources in order to be feasible. It is a requirement under the PPS that Municipalities establish a definition for affordable housing. Based on the PPS and the Municipal Housing Facilities By-law, affordable housing in Chatham-Kent is defined as: Rents of less than $637/month (less than average market rent); and House price of less than $124,859 (10% below average price).
Recommended Actions and Targets incentives to maximize funding potential for affordable housing. 12. Adopt definition of affordable housing, as per the Provincial Policy Statement and Municipal Facilities Bylaw, as part of the current Official Plan review.
Measures
Official Plan Review
The new bilateral agreement with the federal government for the Investment in Affordable Housing for Ontario (IAH) program will provide about half a billion dollars to Ontario in funding for six program components (Rental Housing, Homeownership, Northern Repair, Rent Supplement, Housing Allowance, and Ontario Renovates) from 2012 to 2015.
13. Continue to participate in affordable housing programs and other funding programs that may become available in order to achieve affordable housing targets.
Program Delivery and Fiscal Plan (approved by Council Jan 30, 2012, submitted to MMAH Jan 31, 2012) Annual Housing Report Card
Municipal incentives are an important tool in increasing the supply of affordable housing and in achieving the affordable housing targets.
14. Encourage new affordable housing using municipal tools and incentives such as relief of taxes and charges, securing sites and including affordable housing in new developments.
Annual summary of municipal financial incentives in the development of affordable housing (as part of Housing Report Card)
139
Objectives 4. Ensure availability of emergency and transitional housing options
Context Given vacancy rates of some rental properties within the Municipality and the need for emergency/transitional and supportive housing options, consideration of potential partnerships should be further investigated. Based on the Ontario Housing Policy Statement a provincial objective is the goal of ending homelessness. As part of this goal Service Managers are required to develop strategies to prevent homelessness which are developed in consultation with a range of stakeholders including those who have experienced homelessness. The Housing Study Update identified a need for more emergency/transitional housing options and supports for youth, men, and single women.
Recommended Actions and Targets 15. Investigate opportunities to collaborate with housing providers and local support agencies to provide emergency and supportive housing options within existing buildings that may be experiencing vacancies. 16. Further analyze emergency and transitional housing and support needs within Municipality (including consultation with persons experiencing homelessness) in order to develop a Homelessness Plan which responds to the requirements of the HSA.
Measures Annual Housing Report Card
Homelessness Plan Annual Housing Report Card
17. Support community agencies (i.e. in accessing funding opportunities) in developing emergency and transitional housing and support options for youth, men, and single women. 18. Conduct landlord and tenant positive relationship workshop.
Annual Housing Report Card
5. Promote Expanding Range of Support Services (in urban and rural areas)
Developing positive relationships among landlords and tenants was identified as a priority among stakeholders and is identified as a key housing issue within Chatham-Kent.
Workshop summary report Annual Housing Report Card
A Chatham-Kent Seniors Advisory Committee was appointed by Council. The Director of Seniors Services is the staff support person. The Committee is currently comprised of each
19. Broaden membership of Seniors Advisory Committee to include more agencies (i.e. CCAC).
New membership Annual Housing Report Card
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Objectives
Context community seniors centre (except one). It was suggested by community stakeholders that membership could be broadened to include support agencies and other organizations such as the CCAC.
Measures
Additional support for social housing tenants was identified need in the community in order to help foster improved landlord-tenant relationships and help tenants maintain their housing. Support services might include free services for landlords and tenants, housing support services (assistance with utilities etc.), assistance with daily living (positive parenting, money management, health eating), assistance with job loss, referrals etc.
20. Conduct a survey of social housing providers and tenants to determine supports needed to foster positive tenant-landlord relationships and to identify supports needed to assist tenants to maintain their housing. 21. Initiate community working group comprised of housing providers, municipal staff (Housing Services), support service agencies as well as representation from the Erie St. Clair CCACs Chatham-Kent Geographic Implementation Committee for Home First, to identify opportunities to leverage resources and provide more support services for tenants. 22. Continue efforts to provide service hubs at municipal locations to assist support agencies in delivering support services to rural communities
Survey summary report Annual Housing Report Card
Community Supports Working Group Annual Housing Report Card
Stakeholders identified challenges for rural residents in accessing necessary support services. Municipal hubs such as libraries and community centers can provide a local location for residents to access services and referrals.
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Objectives
Context The Ontario Housing Policy Statement identifies meeting a broad range of community needs as a priority and as such requires that Service Managers respond (through assessment and strategies) of the specific needs of Aboriginal people living off-Reserve, victims of domestic violence, people with disabilities, and others in locally defined groups.
Recommended Actions and Targets 23. Conduct target focus groups to further identify housing and support service needs of: Aboriginal persons Persons with disabilities Homeless Victims of domestic violence Youth
Measures Homelessness Plan Focus group summary report(s) Annual Housing Report Card
6. Promote, educate, and create awareness of housing issues in Chatham-Kent
An education campaign is needed to engage partners, government, housing providers, community agencies and the private sector. An education campaign will help put a face on affordable housing needs.
24. Continue to be a leader in further education and awareness of housing issues, in particular: Accessibility issues and the Accessibility for Ontarians Disability Act (AODA) Landlord and tenant relationships Homeownership training Benefits of affordable housing and understanding its role Affordable housing funding programs (SEED, IAH) Supportive housing and support service funding programs (LHIN, MOH-LTC, MCSS) Affordable housing development options (i.e. cooperatives, shared living, life lease) Renovation and energy efficiency
Annual summary of all housing education and awareness initiatives (as part of Housing Report Card) Prosperity Roundtable participation
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Objectives
Context
Recommended Actions and Targets funding/programs Community support programs (i.e. Salvation Army) Community Partnership Fund (as tool for housing awareness initiatives)
Measures
Given the various partners in housing policy and development and the complexity of meeting the housing needs across the continuum, advocacy is an important tool. It is important to align advocacy efforts with other stakeholders.
25. Continue to advocate with local and provincial partners on such issues as: Increases to income support programs Inclusionary zoning provisions Continued and increased funding for housing assistance (emergency housing, social housing, affordable housing, rent banks, energy banks etc.) Simplified guidelines/rules for funding programs
Annual summary of all housing and funding advocacy efforts (as part of Housing Report Card)
A capacity workshop may provide new ideas and strategies in expanding the current level of financial support for affordable and supportive housing.
26. Conduct affordable housing capacity workshop to bring together potential partners (i.e. community organizations, private corporations, developers, builders, financial institutions, support service agencies, real estate sector etc.) to work towards enhancing capacity for affordable housing programs.
Capacity Workshop Summary Report Annual Housing Report Card
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11.3 Cost Benefit Analysis of Recommended Actions The above framework outlines, based on the housing vision for Chatham-Kent, the approach and actions needed to address the housing issues facing the Municipality and ultimately to achieve healthier and more sustainable communities. The following table outlines the category of each action (research and policy, financial incentive, advocacy and support, education and awareness), outlines any anticipated costs, summarizes the overall benefits, identifies the linkages with other Municipal initiatives, provides an overall priority level (immediate, high, ongoing), and identifies if any new supply is anticipated as a result of the implementation of that action.
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Action Plan for a diverse range of housing 1. Incorporate and adopt the housing vision, objectives and targets (as outlined in the Housing Plan) as part of the Official Plan review. 2. Eliminate zoning barriers that create restrictions for affordable and supportive housing development options.
Category
Cost
Benefit
Linkages with other Initiatives
Priority
New Supply
Research & Policy
n/a
Establishes a clear direction for Housing in Municipality
Immediate
No new supply directly created, although the supply target is identified
Research & Policy
Staff time (additional research)
Ensures zoning is meeting diverse housing needs Facilitates an increase in supply of affordable housing Increases supply of accessible housing Creates greater awareness of housing activity and ability to meet targets and address need
Zoning By-law review (to follow OP review) Official Plan Review
High
Potential to increase affordable and supportive housing through removal of barriers Potential to increase supply of affordable housing through creation of second suites Increase supply of accessible multiunit housing (5% annual target)
3. Include a policy as part of Official Plan Review, which permits second suites in all residential zones in accordance with appropriate planning criteria. 4. Adopt accessible housing targets as follows: 5% of new multi-unit housing units be accessible (fully modified to meet CK FADS)
Research & Policy
Staff time (additional research)
Immediate
Research & Policy
Staff time (monitoring of targets)
Immediate
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Action Improve and maintain existing supply 5. Continue to participate in housing renovation funding programs.
Category
Cost
Benefit
Priority
New Supply
Financial Incentive
Staff time to oversee program administration and possibly design a made in ChathamKent program Funding outlined in PDFP ($75,000 in admin funding and $1.5 million program funding)
Improvements to current housing supply Reduces energy costs for residents
(Ontario) ChathamKent Renovates program
Immediate
(Ontario) ChathamKent Renovates program projected to assist 132 home owners repair or modify their homes or rental units, or create new residential units such as secondary or garden suites between 2012 and 2015
6. Develop a plan to maintain service level standards as required by the Housing Services Act. 7. Continue to complete regular building condition assessments and commit funding to social housing reserves13.
Research & Policy
Staff time to monitor maintaining standards Staff time and consulting costs to update the BCAs14
Meets HSA requirement (1,365 units) Creates awareness of social housing portfolio needs and reserve fund
Housing Services Policies Housing Services Policies
High
Maintain supply of subsidized units
Research & Policy
Ongoing
No new supply, potential to improve/retain existing stock
13 14
First BCA completed in 2005 and updated in 2011. Energy Audit also completed in 2011. Costs for previous BCAs range from $245,000 (completed in 2004/05) to $350,000 (completed in 2010/11).
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Action
Category
Cost Estimated amount for funding for social housing reserves
Benefit status
Priority
New Supply
8. Develop a strategic asset management plan for social housing stock.
Research & Policy
Staff time Potential consulting fees
Improves awareness of demand and supply of stock Identifies options to better meet current and projected housing needs
Housing Services Policies
High
Possible redistribution of existing units and addition of new units
9. Investigate feasibility and appropriateness of selling family units in Wallaceburg to address vacancy concerns, and determine most appropriate reallocation of units to meet current and projected housing needs (maintaining service level standards).
Research & Policy
Staff time Potential consulting fees Appraisal fees15 ESA fees Realtor commission Land Transfer Tax
Improves awareness of demand and supply of family housing stock in Wallaceburg Identifies options to better meet current and projected housing needs
Immediate
Possible redistribution of existing units and addition of new units
15
Based on an appraisal of public housing buildings in 2011, the building has been valued at $2,813,100.
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Action Increase Supply of Affordable Housing 10. Adopt affordable housing targets as follows: 25% affordable housing, including 2% supportive housing
Category
Cost
Benefit
Priority
New Supply
Research & Policy
Staff time (monitoring of targets)
Meets HSA requirement Increases supply of affordable and supportive housing in Chatham-Kent Creates greater awareness of housing activity and ability to meet targets and address need (monitoring of targets)
Immediate
Potential to increase affordable housing (25% of new supply) and supportive housing (2% of 25% new affordable housing supply)
11. Encourage linkages with various funding programs and municipal incentives to maximize funding potential for affordable housing.
Education & Awareness
Staff time
Improves synergies in program and service delivery Creates greater leveraging of funding opportunities
Housing Services Policies Employment and Social Services Policies Healthy Community Initiatives
Ongoing
Potential to create new supply through additional funding opportunities
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Action 12. Adopt definition of affordable housing, as per the Provincial Policy Statement and Municipal Facilities Bylaw, as part of the current Official Plan review. 13. Continue to participate in affordable housing programs and other funding programs that may become available in order to achieve affordable housing targets.
Category Research & Policy
Cost Staff time
Benefit Establishes clear definition for Municipality Meets PPS requirement
Linkages with other Initiatives Official Plan Review
Priority Immediate
New Supply No new supply created
Financial Incentive
Staff time Allocation of $3.5 million in IAH funding for 2012 to 2015
Increases supply of affordable housing
Immediate/ Ongoing
IAH projected to create 12 new affordable rental units and 37 affordable re-sale and one new ownership units for the period 2012 to 2015 Potential for increased supply based on funding incentives
Financial Incentive
Staff time Lost opportunity costs of municipal revenue related to any financial incentives
Increases supply of affordable housing
Official Plan Review Housing Services Policies Planning Services Policies
High
Ensure Availability of Emergency and Transitional Housing Options 15. Investigate opportunities to collaborate with housing providers and local support agencies to provide Research & Policy Staff time Identify new opportunities for partnerships Housing Services Policies Employment High No new supply created, potential for increased number of
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Action emergency and supportive housing options within existing buildings that may be experiencing vacancies.
Category
Cost
Benefit Increase emergency and supportive housing options
Linkages with other Initiatives and Social Services Policies Prosperity Roundtable Housing Services Policies Employment and Social Services Policies Prosperity Roundtable
Priority
New Supply emergency and supportive units
16. Further analyze emergency and transitional housing and support needs within Municipality (including consultation with persons experiencing homelessness) in order to develop a Homelessness Plan which responds to the requirements of the HSA.
Research & Policy
Staff time Consulting fees
Meet HSA requirement Develop Plan to respond to needs of homeless and at-risk population Improved support for persons in need Engage homeless population in Plan
Immediate
No new supply created, potential to identify housing and support options for persons who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness
17. Support community agencies (i.e. in accessing funding opportunities) in developing emergency and transitional housing and support options for youth, men, and single women.
Advocate & Support
Staff time
Improve housing and supports for persons in need Increased funding for emergency and
Housing Services Policies Employment and Social Services Policies Prosperity
Ongoing
Potential to create new emergency and transitional housing and support options
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Action
Category
Cost
Benefit transitional funding Community partnership development
Linkages with other Initiatives Roundtable
Priority
New Supply
Promote Expanding Range of Support Services (in urban and rural areas) 18. Conduct landlord and tenant positive relationship workshop. Education & Awareness Staff time Materials for workshop Improved relationship among landlords and tenants Greater awareness of issues 19. Broaden membership of Seniors Advisory Committee to include more agencies (i.e. CCAC). Advocacy & Support Staff time Improve coordination of agencies addressing needs of seniors Improve supports for tenants and landlords Greater awareness of issues Improve relationship Senior Services Policies and Initiatives High No new supply created Housing Services Policies High No new supply created
20. Conduct a survey of social housing providers and tenants to determine supports needed to foster positive tenantlandlord relationships and to identify supports needed to assist tenants to maintain their housing.
Research & Policy
Staff time Potential fees for survey implementation and analysis
Social Housing Policies
High
No new supply, potential to improve existing housing conditions
151
Action
Category
Cost
Benefit among landlords and tenants
Priority
New Supply
21. Initiate community working group comprised of housing providers, municipal staff (Housing Services), support service agencies as well as representation from the Erie St. Clair CCACs ChathamKent Geographic Implementation Committee for Home First, to identify opportunities to leverage resources and provide more support services for tenants. 22. Continue efforts to provide service hubs at municipal locations to assist support agencies in delivering support services to rural communities.
Staff time Materials (printing)
Community partnership development Opportunity to leverage resources to meet community support needs
Social Housing Policies
High
No new supply, potential to identify resource opportunities
Advocacy & Support
Staff time
Improved access to services for rural residents Develop synergies in delivery of services
Housing Services Policies Employment and Social Services Policies Prosperity Roundtable Housing Services Policies Employment and Social
Ongoing
No new supply, potential for improved access and availability of support services
23. Conduct target focus groups to further identify housing and support service needs of Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, homeless persons, victims of domestic
Staff time Facilitation fees Materials
Greater awareness of unique housing and support needs of persons in
Immediate (as part of Homelessness Plan)
No new supply created
152
Action violence, and youth.
Category
Cost
Benefit need in Chatham-Kent
Linkages with other Initiatives Services Policies Prosperity Roundtable
Priority
New Supply
Promote, Educate and Create Awareness of Housing Issues in Chatham-Kent 24. Continue to be a leader in further education and awareness of housing issues Education & Awareness Staff time Greater awareness of housing issues in the community Community partnership development Housing Services Policies Healthy Communities Initiatives Senior Services Initiatives Housing Services Policies Employment and Social Services Policies Planning Services Policies Ongoing No new supply created, potential to improve tools for creating more affordable housing or improving living conditions Ongoing No new supply created
25. Continue to advocate with local and provincial partners on such issues as: Increases to income support programs Inclusionary zoning provisions Continued and increased funding for housing assistance (emergency housing, social housing, affordable housing, rent banks, energy banks etc.) Simplified guidelines/rules
Advocacy & Support
Staff time
Opportunity for increased funding for housing and supports
153
Action for funding programs 26. Conduct affordable housing capacity workshop to bring together potential partners (i.e. community organizations, private corporations, developers, builders, financial institutions, support service agencies, real estate sector etc.) to work towards enhancing capacity for affordable housing programs.
Category
Cost
Benefit
Priority
New Supply
Staff time Materials Potential facilitation fees
Community partnership development Capacity building Greater coordination in developing affordable housing Improve awareness of various housing partners
Housing Services Policies Employment and Social Services Policies Planning Services Policies
High
Potential for new supply through funding and agency synergies
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11.4 Next Steps The Chatham-Kent Housing Plan Framework represents a compressive approach to addressing housing needs in Chatham-Kent. It establishes a housing vision, housing targets, housing objectives and housing measures for Chatham-Kent while taking into consideration both senior and local government policies. Importantly, the housing vision for Chatham-Kent cannot be achieved by the Municipality alone but rather requires the collective efforts of a broad range of stakeholders to come together to implement the recommended actions and ultimately achieve the housing vision for Chatham-Kent. The information provided in the above sections provides the context and structure for meeting the Housing and Homelessness Plan requirements as outlined within the Housing Services Act. A template for the Chatham-Kent Housing Plan and Housing Report Card is provided in Appendices F and G. At this time it is anticipated that Housing Services will provide a final draft of the Housing Study Update and Proposed Housing Plan to Council in March 2012. Following this, Housing Services will circulate the proposed Housing Plan to social housing providers funded through the Municipality, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH), community agencies and groups (who were invited to participate in the Housing Study Update consultation activities), and the community at large via website and media release. Comments will be accepted for input for up to 60 days and results will be summarized and incorporated into final HSU and Housing Plan. Following the preparation of the final draft, Housing Services will return to Council to seek Council approval of the HSU and Housing Plan. Following Council approval, Housing Services will provide MMAH with final Plan, post document on municipal website and issue media release. In addition, with Councils approval of the 2012 budget, provision has been made for undertaking the work of preparing a Homelessness Study and Plan. Administration anticipates that a Request for Proposal for this work will be issued possibly as early as April 2012.
Present Draft HSU and Housing Plan to Council
Circulate Draft HSU and Housing Plan to MMAH and Local Stakeholders
Summarize and Incorporate Feedback
Seek Council Approval of HSU and Housing Plan
Provide MMAH with Final Housing Plan and Share with Stakeholders
155
Appendices
156
Appendix A Tables
Appendix A 1: Historical Population by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006............................ 158 Appendix A 2: Trends in Household Growth, Chatham-Kent, 1991 to 2006 .................................. 158 Appendix A 3: Population by Household Type by Community and Ontario, 2006 ........................... 159 Appendix A 4: Household Income Ranges, Chatham-Kent, 1995, 2000, and 2005 .......................... 159 Appendix A 5: Unemployment Rates by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006 ........................... 160 Appendix A 6: Occupied Private Dwellings, Chatham-Kent (1991-2006) ..................................... 160 Appendix A 7: Occupied Private Dwellings by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2006........................... 161 Appendix A 8: Conditions of Dwellings by Municipality, Chatham-Kent, 2006 .............................. 163 Appendix A 9: Housing Starts and Completions, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2010 ................................. 163 Appendix A 10: Tenure Rates for Chatham-Kent, 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006 ............................. 164 Appendix A 11: Geographic Location of Rent Supplement Units by Unit Size ............................... 164 Appendix A 12: Summary of Social Housing Portfolio by ........................................................ 164 Appendix A 13: Snapshot of Social Housing Waiting List by Household Type and Unit Size, December of 1998-2010 ................................................................................................................ 165 Appendix A 14: Snapshot of Social Housing Waiting List by Community, December of Each Year 19982010 ....................................................................................................................... 166 Appendix A 15: Total Income in Constant (2005) Dollars, for Seniors Aged 65+ in Chatham-Kent, 20002005 ....................................................................................................................... 167
157
Appendix A 1: Historical Population by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006 Change 20012001 2006 2006 Community # % # % # % Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Chatham-Kent 4,917 44,669 2,647 3,453 4,672 11,290 2,745 1,002 364 719 339 500 928 4.6% 41.6% 2.5% 3.2% 4.4% 10.5% 2.6% 0.9% 0.3% 0.7% 0.3% 0.5% 0.9% 4,624 46,863 2,504 3,243 4,855 10,723 3,057 968 426 762 285 525 930 4.3% 43.3% 2.3% 3.0% 4.5% 9.9% 2.8% 0.9% 0.4% 0.7% 0.3% 0.5% 0.9% -293 2,194 -143 -210 183 -567 312 -34 62 43 -54 25 2 836 -6.0% 4.9% -5.4% -6.1% 3.9% -5.0% 11.4% -3.4% 17.0% 6.0% -15.9% 5.0% 0.2% 0.8%
107,341 100.0% 108,177 100.0% Source: 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
Appendix A 2: Trends in Household Growth, Chatham-Kent, 1991 to 2006 1991 Number of Households 39,950 1996 41,320 2001 41,945 2006 43,670 % Change 1991-1996 3.4% % Change 1996-2001 1.5% % Change 2001-2006 4.1%
Source: Statistics Canada, 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006 Census of Canada
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Appendix A 3: Population by Household Type by Community and Ontario, 2006 Geography Blenheim Chatham Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchells Bay Pain Court Thamesville Rural Areas Chatham-Kent Ontario Total Households 1,910 19,630 1,365 1,895 4,485 1,105 390 210 295 155 200 380 10,630 43,670 4,555,025 Family # 1,370 13,160 910 1,360 3,080 860 270 165 245 95 155 260 8,290 30,915 3,301,130 % 71.7% 67.0% 66.7% 71.8% 68.7% 77.8% 69.2% 78.6% 83.1% 61.3% 77.5% 68.4% 78.0% 70.8% 72.5% Non-Family # 530 6,480 450 535 1,410 245 125 40 60 60 50 120 2,335 12,750 1,253,895 % 27.7% 33.0% 33.0% 28.2% 31.4% 22.2% 32.1% 19.0% 20.3% 38.7% 25.0% 31.6% 22.0% 29.2% 27.5%
Appendix A 4: Household Income Ranges, Chatham-Kent, 1995, 2000, and 2005 1995 Income Range Under $10,000 $10,000-$19,999 $20,000-$29,999 Under $29,999 $30,000-$39,999 $40,000-$49,999 $50,000-$59,999 $60,000-$69,000 $70,000-$79,999 $80,000-$89,999 $90,000-$99,999 $100,000 and over All households # 2,370 6,765 5,615 14,750 5,155 4,775 4,050 3,525 2,535 1,925 1,370 2,905 40,990 % 5.8% 16.5% 13.7% 36.0% 12.6% 11.6% 9.9% 8.6% 6.2% 4.7% 3.3% 7.1% 100.0% # 2,325 5,500 4,860 12,685 5,065 4,595 4,100 3,655 3,035 2,365 1,690 4,760 41,950 2000 % 5.5% 13.1% 11.6% 30.2% 12.1% 11.0% 9.8% 8.7% 7.2% 5.6% 4.0% 11.3% 100.0% # 1,730 4,940 4,790 11,460 5,015 4,835 3,875 3,725 2,880 2,630 2,070 7,025 43,515 2005 % 4.0% 11.4% 11.0% 26.3% 11.5% 11.1% 8.9% 8.6% 6.6% 6.0% 4.8% 16.1% 100.0%
Source: Statistics Canada; 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
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Appendix A 5: Unemployment Rates by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006 Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Chatham-Kent Ontario 2001 11.2% 9.1% 14.5% 7.1% 7.1% 11.2% 4.0% 6.0% 7.0% 5.4% 7.8% 5.8% 4.4% 8.3% 6.1% 2006 5.5% 7.5% 9.5% 5.0% 9.3% 8.3% 6.8% 9.4% 5.7% 6.0% 14.5% 2.9% 9.9% 7.2% 6.4%
Appendix A 6: Occupied Private Dwellings, Chatham-Kent (1991-2006) Housing Type # Single Detached Semi-Detached Row House Apartment, detached duplex Apartment building, five or more storeys Apartment building, less than five storeys Other single attached house Movable unit Total occupied private dwellings 29,725 1,190 1,275 675 1,405 4,755 260 580 39,865 1991 % 74.6% 3.0% 3.2% 1.7% 3.5% 11.9% 0.7% 1.5% 100% # 31,400 1,060 1,505 850 1,470 4,475 105 255 41,120 1996 % 76.4% 2.6% 3.7% 2.1% 3.6% 10.9% 0.3% 0.6% 100% # 32,070 1,065 1,815 595 1,475 4,310 180 445 41,955 2001 % 76.4% 2.5% 4.3% 1.4% 3.5% 10.3% 0.4% 1.1% 100% # 33,090 1,265 1,480 780 1,530 5,175 110 130 43,560 2006 % 76.0% 2.9% 3.4% 1.8% 3.5% 11.9% 0.3% 0.3% 100%
Source: Statistics Canada, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
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Appendix A 7: Occupied Private Dwellings by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2006 Chatham-Kent Housing Type Single-detached house Semi-detached house Row house Apartment, detached duplex Apartment, building that has five or more storeys Apartment, building that has fewer than five storeys Other single-attached house Movable dwelling Total occupied private dwellings Housing Type Single-detached house Semi-detached house Row house Apartment, detached duplex Apartment, building that has five or more storeys Apartment, building that has fewer than five storeys Other single-attached house Movable dwelling Total occupied private dwellings Housing Type Single-detached house Semi-detached house Row house Apartment, detached duplex Apartment, building that has five or more storeys Apartment, building that has fewer than five storeys Other single-attached house Movable dwelling Total occupied private dwellings # 33,090 1,265 1,480 780 1,530 5,175 110 130 43,560 # 949 7 47 24 0 67 0 4 1,098 # 311 10 15 15 0 39 0 0 390 % 76.0% 2.9% 3.4% 1.8% 3.5% 11.9% 0.3% 0.3% 100% % 86.4% 0.6% 4.3% 2.2% 0.0% 6.1% 0.0% 0.4% 100% % 79.7% 2.6% 3.8% 3.8% 0.0% 10.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100% Chatham # 11804 805 718 533 1355 3297 35 22 18,569 # 1,473 44 133 15 0 240 5 0 1,910 Merlin # 266 0 0 4 0 21 0 0 291 % 91.4% 0.0% 0.0% 1.4% 0.0% 7.2% 0.0% 0.0% 100% % 63.6% 4.3% 3.9% 2.9% 7.3% 17.8% 0.2% 0.1% 100% % 77.1% 2.3% 7.0% 0.8% 0.0% 12.6% 0.3% 0.0% 100% # 848 5 14 12 0 129 0 0 1,008 # 1047 41 97 29 50 114 0 0 1,378 # 119 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 122 Dresden % 84.1% 0.5% 1.4% 1.2% 0.0% 12.8% 0.0% 0.0% 100% % 76.0% 3.0% 7.0% 2.1% 3.6% 8.3% 0.0% 0.0% 100% % 97.5% 0.0% 2.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 100% Wallaceburg # 3369 161 205 89 115 487 24 1 4,451 # 1,443 33 107 23 0 261 10 0 1,877 # 348 5 18 7 0 18 0 0 396 % 75.7% 3.6% 4.6% 2.0% 2.6% 10.9% 0.5% 0.0% 100% % 76.9% 1.8% 5.7% 1.2% 0.0% 13.9% 0.5% 0.0% 100% % 87.9% 1.3% 4.5% 1.8% 0.0% 4.5% 0.0% 0.0% 100%
Wheatley
Tilbury
Ridgetown
Blenheim
Thamesville
Mitchell's Bay
Bothwell
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Pain Court Housing Type Single-detached house Semi-detached house Row house Apartment, detached duplex Apartment, building that has five or more storeys Apartment, building that has fewer than five storeys Other single-attached house Movable dwelling Total occupied private dwellings # 182 0 6 3 0 8 3 0 202 % 90.1% 0.0% 3.0% 1.5% 0.0% 4.0% 1.5% 0.0% 100%
Charing Cross # 156 6 0 3 0 7 0 0 172 % 77.2% 3.0% 0.0% 1.5% 0.0% 3.5% 0.0% 0.0% 85%
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Appendix A 8: Conditions of Dwellings by Municipality, Chatham-Kent, 2006 Community Blenheim Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Bothwell Charing Cross Merlin Mitchell's Bay Pain Court Thamesville Chatham-Kent Regular Maintenance # 1,281 12,995 700 967 1,229 2,804 722 221 97 170 82 132 279 29,240 % 68.5% 70.3% 68.7% 69.5% 64.7% 63.4% 66.5% 56.2% 58.4% 60.7% 64.1% 67.7% 73.6% 67.2% Minor Repairs # 464 4,135 231 329 557 1,267 295 127 59 73 46 57 81 11,035 % 24.8% 22.4% 22.7% 23.6% 29.3% 28.7% 27.2% 32.3% 35.5% 26.1% 35.9% 29.2% 21.4% 25.4% Major Repairs # 126 1,360 88 96 114 350 69 45 10 37 0 6 19 3,250 % 6.7% 7.4% 8.6% 6.9% 6.0% 7.9% 6.4% 11.5% 6.0% 13.2% 0.0% 3.1% 5.0% 7.5% 1,871 18,490 1,019 1,392 1,900 4,421 1,086 393 166 280 128 195 379 43,525 Total
Appendix A 9: Housing Starts and Completions, Chatham-Kent, 1998-2010 Housing Starts 1998 Single Detached Semi Detached Row Housing Apartments Total 164 4 4 34 206 1998 Single Detached Semi Detached Row Housing Apartments Total 157 4 9 2 172 1999 119 0 0 0 119 1999 144 0 0 32 176 2000 108 20 8 0 136 2000 108 18 4 0 130 2001 65 6 25 0 96 2001 54 8 13 0 75 2002 74 8 8 0 90 2002 85 8 24 0 117 2003 122 16 12 0 150 2003 85 10 8 0 103 2004 120 18 5 0 143 2004 151 24 9 0 184 2005 147 12 38 0 197 2005 131 10 22 0 163 2006 141 28 46 2 217 2006 118 22 39 2 181 2007 165 8 4 0 177 2007 164 12 20 0 196 2008 126 10 0 0 136 2008 129 6 7 0 142 2009 72 10 3 0 85 2009 81 10 0 0 91 2010 95 4 4 0 103 2010 102 8 3 0 113
Housing Completions
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Appendix A 10: Tenure Rates for Chatham-Kent, 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2006 Year Ownership Rented Total 1991 27,545 12,395 39,940 1996 28,915 12,285 41,200 2001 30,270 11,680 41,950 2006 31,780 11,745 43,525 Years % Owner Occupied % Rented Total 1991 69.0% 31.0% 100.0% 1996 70.2% 29.8% 100.0% 2001 72.2% 27.8% 100.0% 2006 73.0% 27.0% 100.0% Source: Statistics Canada, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada
Appendix A 11: Geographic Location of Rent Supplement Units by Unit Size Community Chatham Thamesville Tilbury Wallaceburg Total Bachelor 0 0 0 0 0 One Bedroom 85 2 2 5 94 Two Bedroom 25 0 0 0 25 Three Bedroom 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 Four Bedroom 0 0 Total 111 2 2 5 120 Special Needs 1 0 0 0 1
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , May 2010 Appendix A 12: Summary of Social Housing Portfolio by Geographic Location and Provider Type Community Public Rent Supp NP & Co-op Total Units % of Units Blenheim Bothwell Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Thamesville Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheately Total 61 10 261 40 10 56 240 20 698 111 2 2 5 120 35 667 42 30 774 96 10 1,039 40 52 2 58 275 20 1,592 6.0% 0.6% 65.3% 2.5% 3.3% 0.1% 3.6% 17.3% 1.3% 100.0%
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , June 2011
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Appendix A 13: Snapshot of Social Housing Waiting List by Household Type and Unit Size, December of 19982010
Households Dec. 1998 Dec. 1999 Dec. 2000 Dec. 2001 Dec. 2002* Dec. 2003 Dec. 2004 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2007 Dec. 2008 Dec. 2009 Dec. 2010 Average
With Dependents 2 Bedrooms 3 Bedrooms 4 Bedrooms Total With Dependents 1 Bedroom 2 Bedrooms Total Without Dependents 1 Bedroom 2 Bedrooms Total Seniors 59 23 8 90 28 16 9 53 51 16 6 73 52 38 12 102 58 27 2 87 21 11 1 33 41 25 9 75 70 28 6 104 21 13 5 39 36 23 7 66 44 35 17 96 41 30 9 80 39 15 8 62 43 23 8 74
Without Dependents 109 2 111 97 1 98 99 3 102 109 2 111 114 0 114 74 0 74 131 0 131 84 0 84 63 1 64 55 0 55 44 0 44 75 0 75 62 0 62 86 1 87
Seniors 40 1 41 28 3 31 24 2 26 33 0 33 16 0 16 17 1 18 Total 1 Bedroom 2 Bedrooms 3 Bedrooms 4 Bedrooms Processing Total 149 62 23 8 54 296 125 32 16 9 145 327 123 56 16 6 143 344 142 54 38 12 N/A 246 130 58 27 2 18 235 91 22 11 1 67 192 138 42 25 9 N/A 214 111 71 28 6 N/A 216 106 23 13 5 130 277 91 36 23 7 78 235 89 47 35 17 120 308 139 43 30 9 114 335 125 41 15 8 132 321 120 45 23 8 115 311 7 1 8 27 1 28 43 1 44 36 0 36 45 3 48 64 2 66 63 2 65 34 1 35
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , 1998-2010 *Jan 2003 data substituted for Dec. 2002 as Dec. 2002 data not available.
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Appendix A 14: Snapshot of Social Housing Waiting List by Community, December of Each Year 1998-2010
Community Blenheim Bothwell Chatham Dresden Ridgetown Thamesville Tilbury Wallaceburg Wheatley Processing Total Dec. 1998 7 2 213 1 1 0 6 11 1 54 296 Dec. 1999 1 0 168 0 1 0 4 8 0 145 327 Dec. 2000 2 0 181 0 0 0 11 7 0 143 344 246 Data not available by community Dec. 2001 Dec. 2002* 12 3 156 1 7 0 15 22 1 139 356 Dec. 2003 0 0 86 0 8 0 13 18 0 67 192 Dec. 2004 3 0 108 0 13 1 10 15 0 64 214 Dec. 2005 3 0 116 0 9 1 8 9 2 68 216 Dec. 2006 1 0 124 0 9 0 8 5 0 130 277 Dec. 2007 2 0 131 1 5 0 7 11 0 78 235 Dec. 2008 7 0 135 1 6 0 11 28 0 120 308 Dec. 2009 7 0 174 2 7 0 11 20 0 114 335 Dec. 2010 3 1 154 0 4 1 8 17 1 132 321 Average 4 1 146 1 6 0 9 14 0 105 282
Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, , 1998-2010 *Jan. 2003 data used instead of Dec. 2002 data as Dec. 2002 data not available.
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Appendix A 15: Total Income in Constant (2005) Dollars, for Seniors Aged 65+ in Chatham-Kent, 2000-2005 Income Categories # Under $2,000 $2,000 to $4,999 $5,000 to $6,999 $7,000 to $9,999 $10,000 to $11,999 $12,000 to $14,999 $15,000 to $19,999 $20,000 to $24,999 $25,000 to $29,999 $30,000 to $34,999 $35,000 to $39,999 $40,000 to $44,999 $45,000 to $49,999 $50,000-$59,999 $60,000-$69,999 $70,000-$79,999 $80,000 and over Total - Income Groups Average Income Median Income 75 55 270 655 665 2130 3270 1780 1445 1265 860 525 445 610 315 180 300 14845 $27,097 $20,765 2000 % 0.5% 0.4% 1.8% 4.4% 4.5% 14.3% 22.0% 12.0% 9.7% 8.5% 5.8% 3.5% 3.0% 4.1% 2.1% 1.2% 2.0% # 55 60 240 695 685 1575 3380 2240 1870 1220 800 645 560 850 410 205 335 15810 $28,401 $22,705 2005 % 0.3% 0.4% 1.5% 4.4% 4.3% 10.0% 21.4% 14.2% 11.8% 7.7% 5.1% 4.1% 3.5% 5.4% 2.6% 1.3% 2.1% Change 1995-2000 # -20 5 -30 40 20 -555 110 460 425 -45 -60 120 115 240 95 25 35 965 $1,304 $1,940 % -26.7% 9.1% -11.1% 6.1% 3.0% -26.1% 3.4% 25.8% 29.4% -3.6% -7.0% 22.9% 25.8% 39.3% 30.2% 13.9% 11.7% 6.5% 4.8% 9.3%
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Appendix B List of Key Informants

The following individuals provided input to this report by completing a survey and/or participating in interviews. Name Austin, Melaney Babcock, Michelle Bechard, Brandon Belore, Rebecca Colasanti, Valerie Coristine, Ron Corso, Angela Coyne, Marsha Craig, Jennifer Craig, Shelley Cross, Denise Davidson, Lyndsay Dickson, Rhonda Gall, Lori Hebrick, Crystal Henley, Hilary Jacobs, Suzanne Jacques, Ryan Johns, Jennifer Kalbfleisch, Nancy Kaminek, Renee Lennox, Mark Menelaws, Andy Michaud, Gilles Mieras, Janet Mofat, Sylvia Nelmes, April Nordam, Jean Peltier, Glen Organization Habitat for Humanity Canada, ChathamKent Family Service Kent Chatham-Kent Housing Services Chatham-Kent Housing Services Chatham-Kent Employment & Social Services Association for Community Living, Chatham-Kent District Nancys Place Chatham-Kent Womens Centre Chatham-Kent Planning Services Chatham-Kent Riverview Gardens Riverway Non Profit Housing Corporation Association for Community Living, Wallaceburg & Sydenham District Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit Chatham-Kent Salvation Army Brain Injury Association of Chatham-Kent Delaware Nation Canadian Mental Health Association, Chatham-Kent Three Fires Womens Centre Chatham-Kent Planning Services Chatham-Kent Housing Services Chatham-Kent Housing Services Clairvue Co-operative Housing Corporation Brentwood Recovery Home for Alcoholics Canadian Mental Health Association Chatham-Kent Home Builders Association Canadian Mental Health Association, Chatham-Kent Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors March of Dimes Canada Christian Senior Citizens Home of Chatham St. Vincent de Paul 168
Peters, Roberta Pickering, Mary Lynn Pugliese, Ralph Rabideau, Nancy Reaume, Maril Salisbury, Linda Smoke, Gail Thain, Allison Verburg, Tonya Verfaillie, Brad Wilcox, Amy
Delaware Nation Chatham-Kent Employment & Social Services Chatham-Kent Planning Services Columbus Estates of Chatham Brentwood Recovery Home for Alcoholics Chatham-Kent Housing Services Clairvue Co-operative Housing Corporation Community Living Wallaceburg Chatham-Kent Womens Centre Community Living Chatham-Kent Community Development (CAOs Office)
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Appendix C Surveys
Organization Name: Contact Person: Telephone Number: Email Address:
Please verify if the Needs Served and our Support Services are correct and complete the table for Number of Beds, Number of Clients, Waiting List, and Wait Time. Needs Served Support Services Number of Number of Waiting Beds Clients List Wait Time
1. 2. 3.
What are the key housing and support challenges facing your clients? How have these changed since 2006? Do you have any recent (i.e. post 2006) reports/studies that you feel we should look at? Do you feel the actions adopted by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent have been effective in addressing the housing issues experienced by your clients? Why or why not? Do you have any ideas/strategies that the Municipality of Chatham-Kent could put into place to address the housing needs of your clients?
4.
5.
We thank you for your assistance. Please return your survey to vminichiello@shsinc.ca or fax to (905) 763-7558
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Appendix D Summary of Ontario Housing Policy Statement

The Ontario Housing Policy Statement is intended to provide further direction to Service Managers to support the development of their plans. The Province outlines seven broad policy directions each with more specific requirements for service managers. These requirements are outlined below: 1. Accountability and Outcomes Service Managers will ensure that local housing and homelessness plans: a. demonstrate a system of coordinated housing and homelessness services to assist families and individuals to move toward a level of self-sufficiency; b. include services, supported by housing and homelessness research and forecasts, that are designed to improve outcomes for individuals and families; c. are coordinated and integrated with all municipalities in the service area; d. contain strategies to increase awareness of, and improve access to, affordable and safe housing that is linked to supports, homelessness prevention and social programs and services; e. contain strategies to identify and reduce gaps in programs, services and supports and focus on achieving positive outcomes for individuals and families; f. contain local housing policies and short and long-term housing targets; g. provide for public consultation, progress measurement, and reporting. 2. Goal of Ending Homelessness Service Managers will ensure that housing and homelessness plans: a. provide measures to prevent homelessness by supporting people to stay in their homes including eviction prevention measures and the provision of supports appropriate to clients needs; b. are based on a Housing First philosophy and developed in consultation with a broad range of local stakeholders including those who have experienced homelessness; c. support innovative strategies to address homelessness; d. include the provision of supports prior to and after obtaining housing to facilitate transitioning people from the street and shelters to safe, adequate and stable housing. 3. Non-Profit Housing Corporations and Non-Profit Housing Co-Operatives Service Managers will ensure that their housing and homelessness plans: a. reflect the active engagement of non-profit housing corporations and non-profit housing co-operatives in current and future needs planning; b. include strategies to support non-profit housing corporations and non-profit housing cooperatives in the delivery of affordable housing; c. include strategies to support ongoing access to affordable housing by preserving existing social housing capacity.
171
4. The Private Market Service Manager housing and homelessness plans will set out a strategy to generate municipal support for an active and vital private ownership and rental market, including second units and garden suites, as a necessary part of the housing continuum including affordable home ownership, where appropriate. 5. Co-ordination with other Community Services Service Manager housing and homelessness plans will demonstrate how progress will be made in moving toward integrated human services planning and delivery. 6. A Broad Range of Community Needs a) Accessibility Service Manager housing and homelessness plans will contain an assessment of needs that identifies and sets local requirements for accessible housing and homelessness services for people with disabilities, including those who have mental health needs or illness and/or substance use issues. b) Special Priority Policy Service Manager housing and homelessness plans will include a strategy setting out how the housing needs for victims of domestic violence will be addressed and managed at the local level, in coordination with other community-based services and supports. c) Aboriginal Peoples Living Off-Reserve Service Manager housing and homelessness plans will identify and consider the housing needs of Aboriginal Peoples living off-reserve. d) Community Needs Service Manager housing and homelessness plans reflect the evolving demographics of their community and address the needs of specific local groups. Local groups might include: seniors, youth, women, immigrants, persons released from custody or under community supervision, Crown Wards, and Franco-Ontarians.
7. Environmental Sustainability and Energy Conservation Service Manager housing and homelessness plans will demonstrate a commitment to improve the energy efficiency of existing and future publicly funded housing stock. This includes support for energy conservation and energy efficiency through operating programs, tenant engagement, housing located near transportation choices, and innovative investment decisions such as the installation of renewable energy and low carbon technologies.
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Appendix E Summary of 2006 Recommendation
173
Current Status of 2006 Housing Study Recommendations
Strategic Direction (4) Completed Recommendations (10) No Longer Applicable (3) For Discussion: Incomplete (19) For Discussion: Ongoing Recommendations (25) OP = OFFICIAL PLAN HSU= HOUSING STUDY UPDATE
174
2006 Recommendation
Strategic Housing Direction 1: Housing Choices
Status
Background/Progress
Ensuring there is an appropriate supply and mix of housing for all household types, including persons with special needs will support the creation of liveable, sustainable communities across Chatham-Kent. 1. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent consider adding specific housing objectives into the development of any updated or future Community Strategic Plan. -The CSP has not been updated since 2005 The Community Strategic Plan Committee (CSPC) is an advisory committee to Chatham-Kent Municipal Council has been working to pull together existing plans and people. The 2011 Workplan outlines 3 key objectives for CSPC: communicate with Council and stakeholders on community focus areas Health, Economy, Environment, Culture and Learning; inspire community action; and enhance capacity of committee members. The Community Strategic Plan will be the overarching strategic document for the municipality. It will be important for the HSU to include, in the introduction to the strategy, how the HSU helps contribute to the overall principles of the Strategic Plan (i.e. health, economy, environment, culture). Promotion of healthy active people is one of six Council directions in the Strategic Plan. Pending OP Review & HSU
2. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent put in place a system to ensure that new housing production and mix is monitored on a regular basis, preferably annually or at least every three years. 3. That, in keeping with the policies of the Official Plan, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent reevaluate its housing projections once the 2006 Census data on population and household information is available.
-Incomplete
-Completed in 2009 and update currently underway
2009 Growth Analysis adopted by Council. Current OP Review process & HSU process underway
175
2006 Recommendation
4. That the Municipality adopt affordable housing target ranges.
Status
-Partially completed ________________ -In progress
Background/Progress
Housing Delivery Plan for AHP, adopted in 2006 OP Review & HSU in Progress
5. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, in conjunction with community agencies, monitor the effectiveness of its new group home distancing bylaw in reducing barriers to the creation of this form of housing. 6. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent permit accessory apartments in all residential zones in accordance with appropriate planning criteria in order to help provide a wider mix of unit types in such areas. 7. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, through its Accessibility Committee, monitor the development of the Accessibility for Ontarians Disability Act (AODA) standards and provide support to organizations covered by the new regulation to ensure compliance. 8. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent invite CMHC to co-host an Accessibility Forum to provide public awareness and education on accessibility legislation and best practices for design standards.
-Completed
Has been seen as a positive change by community organizations (i.e. Community Living Association).
-Incomplete
It is possible that this will be completed as part of Phases 2 and 3 of the OP Review. Amendments to the Planning Act (as a result of the Housing Service Act) requires municipalities to have a policy to permit secondary units. Dec 2/02 Council established the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC). AAC has made annual reports to Council since 2004. The 2010-2011 Accessibility Report was approved by Council Feb 14/11. Community FADs adopted by Council on Oct 6/08 for municipally-owned properties. CKHS has permanent staff represented on the Committee (Health & Family Services reps) In April 2011, the Accessibility Committee held a half day training session for CKHS staff and private non-profit housing representatives.
-Completed & -Ongoing
-Incomplete
176
2006 Recommendation
9. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent encourage local housing providers to consider universal design and flex housing concepts when undertaking a major renovation.
Status
-Complete & -Ongoing
Background/Progress
Created and maintain database of Modified Units specific modifications as well as site accessibility features for all social housing projects. Encourage improvements to accessibility when funding available, i.e. SHCAP, SHRRP, Enabling Accessibility Funding. Update database re: improvements. Report on improvements annually. Building Division only requires compliance with Ontario Building Code; recommendation has not been adopted by Council. Required use of FADS for design-build contract for Riverview Terrace, 5 Tecumseh Road, Chatham. Municipal staff participate on SMHN, OMSSA and Committees re: Rental Tenancies Act (replaced Tenant Protection Act), Housing Services Act (replaced Social Housing Report Act); Now, HSA Regulations. Also provide direct input to various Ministries, Departments and agencies/commissions.
10. That the Municipality monitor the impact of recent changes to landlord and tenant relationships and work with municipal sector organizations such as the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Service Manager Housing Network to advocate for changes as required. 11. That the Municipality encourage social housing providers with vacancy issues to enter into agreements with local organizations, such as emergency and transitional housing providers and support service agencies, to help address these vacancies, as well as the need for emergency, transitional and supportive housing. Strategic Housing Direction 2: Housing Affordability
-Incomplete _____________ -Not Started
Municipal staff had deferred item for in-depth analysis in Homelessness Planning process. Grant application was denied in 2011. Homelessness Plan to be developed in 2012, subject to council budget deliberations.
Providing a range of housing choices affordable by households of all income levels will demonstrate the commitment of a caring community. 12. That the Municipality invite CMHC to conduct its Homeownership Education and Training Program in Chatham-Kent. -Completed Seminar for new homeowners held March 2007. Also, all new AHP Homeowners provided with complimentary binder of CMHC information on maintaining a home.
177
2006 Recommendation
13. That the Municipality offer support to local community members towards establishing a Habitat for Humanity Chapter in Chatham-Kent.
Status
-Completed
Background/Progress
Director assisted local resident and Executive Director of United Way launch a group of interested community members into process; 2006 Housing Study was critical to launching a HFHC group HFHC-CK obtained affiliate status effective October, 2009. Currently an OW Supervisor is Vice President of the Board and Chair of the Family Selection Committee; CKHS Housing Advisor is also a member of the Family Selection Committee. HFHC-CK recently (October 2011) announced donation of land and anticipate starting to build in the Spring 2013. IAH PDFP includes $50,000 forgivable loan for HFHC-CK in Spring 2013. In August 2011, received funding allocation under new IAH program. IAH PDFP includes Home Ownership.
14. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, in conjunction with its participation in the Homeownership component of the Affordable Housing Program, explore the feasibility of various affordable home ownership models. 15. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent advocate for increased funding from senior governments towards the remediation of brownfields in order to make brownfield development a more viable option for affordable housing.
-Incomplete
-Pending HSU
16. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent make every effort to strategically link available affordable housing programs with its Downtown and Main Street Area financial incentive programs, where appropriate in order to maximize the funding potential for affordable housing programs.
Municipality did submit a Brownfield Redevelopment Support letter and met with MOE Minister John Garretson (Feb, 2009). There is currently a Brownfield CIP but no significant clean-up has taken place. One site located on Grand Ave. West was remediated. The Municipality does not own brownfield lands. Municipality will continue to work with private sector if viable options are proposed. Recommendation endorsed by Council. Housing Services and Planning Services staff work co-operatively to encourage such links. E.g. Remmcor Ltd. AHP Development in downtown Chatham received CIP funding.
178
2006 Recommendation
17. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent lend its support to local social and economic development organizations that help develop initiatives to improve income and wages of Chatham-Kent residents. 18. That the Municipality monitor the impact of recent increases in income support policies and in minimum wage on housing affordability and consider advocating to the Province to adjust income support and minimum wage policies on an annual basis to reflect changes in cost of living. 19. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent enact a Municipal Housing Facilities By-law under Section 210 of the Municipal Act and as outlined in the Official Plan that would enable Chatham-Kent to provide incentives to the private sector to create new affordable housing. The by-law would include the definition of affordable as recommended below (recommendation 20). 20. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent adopt the definition of affordable housing as outlined within the Provincial Policy Statement on Housing. 21. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent continue to undertake the necessary steps required to participate in the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program and work with proponents to put forward proposals to the Province under this program.
Status
-Completed -In progress & -Ongoing -Completed & -Ongoing
Background/Progress
Workforce Development Council created in 2002, but only obtained MTCU funding in 2007. Workforce Planning Board created in 2009 Poverty Round Table created in 2009. Changed name to Prosperity Roundtable in 2011. Have participated in advocacy efforts with Southwest CMSMs, Strategic MGMT (SM) Group; OMSSA, Social Assistance Review (2011). Submitted report to Council to support and endorse AMO and OMSSA to have the Government of Ontario introduce and fully fund a $100/month Healthy Food Supplement for all adults on social assistance (April 18, 2011)
-Completed
Recommendation adopted by Council. Municipal Housing Facilities By-Law, #44-2007, passed March 5, 2007.
-Completed ______________ -In Progress -Completed ______________ -In Progress
Recommendation adopted by Council. AHP Delivery Plan approved by Council on July 24, 2006. Pending OP Review & HSU. Recommendation adopted by Council. AHP completed with participation in Strong Start, Rental & Supportive Capital Projects, Housing Allowance / Rent Supplements and Home Ownership. Now have Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) allocation to plan take-up for. IAH PDFP approved by Council January 30,2012.
179
2006 Recommendation
22. That Chatham-Kent provide a grant in-lieu of a property tax reduction to equalize the taxation rate for newly constructed affordable housing projects funded under the Canada-Ontario Affordable Housing Program and consider providing property tax grants for other affordable housing projects on a case-by-case basis. 23. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent establish an Affordable Housing Reserve Fund to provide incentives to private and community organizations for the creation of affordable housing and other affordable housing purposes. 24. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent consider making an annual contribution to the Affordable Housing Reserve Fund to ensure that ongoing funds are available to address identified housing needs. 25. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent consider the use of surplus government lands for the development of affordable housing projects on a case by case basis and advocate for them to be made available at low costs for such purposes. 26. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent encourage community groups and agencies interested in development projects to apply for CMHCs Seed funding program.
Status
Background/Progress
Recommendation adopted by Council. Remmcor Limited By-Law #143-2007 passed July 23, 2007. This approach will also be applicable for any new projects under IAH Program
-Not started
Pending HSU
-Not started
Pending HSU
-Ongoing
Used Surplus Municipal Property to build Riverview Terrace. Review surplus land via Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) & Tax Division notices.
Both Planning and Housing Services staff and Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) have been encouraging this. Remmcor Ltd obtained SEED Funding for Adelaide Manor AHP Project Municipality of Chatham-Kent obtained SEED Funding for Riverview Terrace Remmcor Ltd is seeking SEED Funding for Nasr Manor IAH Project
180
2006 Recommendation
27. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, in keeping with the Provincial Policy Statement on Housing, consider flexibility and innovation in development standards, providing they meet basic health and safety requirements. 28. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, in association with other Service Managers, advocate for changes to provincial policy to strengthen capability of municipalities to adopt inclusionary zoning policies. 29. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent urge the federal government to change the tax system (as outlined below) 30. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent urge the provincial government to: Eliminate its capital taxes on rental properties; Continue bilateral discussions with the federal government on more flexible financing terms for rental development
Status
-Not Started
Background/Progress
No action taken to date (recommendations not adopted by Council)
-Incomplete
Included in Bill 198 and later in Bill 58. Bill 58 passed second reading on June 3 2010 and has been referred to the Standing Committee on Regulations and Private Bills. Was not included in recent provincial legislation, including the LTAHS or HSA. See rec. #31
-See rec. #31
-Not started
31. That Chatham-Kent should urge the federal government to expedite the implementation of its low-income housing tax credit program. 32. That Chatham-Kent should consider lending its support, i.e. limited staff time and start-up funds, to local not-for-profit agencies interested in establishing a Community Land Trust. -
-Completed
-Not started
Has not been requested by any group or PNP.
181
2006 Recommendation
33. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent investigate the feasibility of increasing the number of 100% Municipally funded rent supplement units in order to provide a longterm solution to housing affordability for Chatham-Kent residents. 34. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent continue to provide grants under the Community Partnership Fund and consider adding Housing under the list of potential areas for funding.
Status
-Incomplete
Background/Progress
Diminishing funding for Rent Supplement since 2002 as costs increase but funding static. Municipality has maintained Service Level Standard for Rent Supplement. IAH PDFP includes Rent Supplement, PDFP approved by Council January 30, 2012 and submitted to MMAH on January 31st, 2012. Pending HSU. Partnership Fund is ongoing with applications now being accepted up until December 2011. Housing not specifically added as priority area, however, promoting healthy communities, enhancing social services, focus on youth and seniors development programs are listed. Program funding is anticipated to continue annually, subject to councils annual budget deliberations. Some examples of where this has taken place: Housing Forum Regional Planning Community Events Healthy Communities Events Strategic Plan of Prosperity Roundtable
-Ongoing
35. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent identify opportunities to bring together potential partners (i.e. community organizations, private corporations, developers and builders, financial institutions, support service agencies, real estate sector etc.) to enhance the capacity for affordable housing projects. 36. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent invite CMHC to hold a Strategies for Gaining Community Acceptance workshop to provide private and non-profit housing developers with strategies for gaining community acceptance of their proposed projects. This educational workshop is also suggested for Municipal Councillors. -
-Completed -Ongoing
-Incomplete
Unsuccessful in getting CAO/EMT support in February 2006 and August 2009 Reconsider in HSU
182
2006 Recommendation
Strategic Housing Direction 3: Housing Quality
Status
Background/Progress
Placing strong attention to the maintenance and perseverance of existing housing will contribute to a healthy and sustainable community. 37. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent work closely with CMHC to ensure that available RRAP funds are fully utilized to help improve the existing rental housing stock. 38. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent advocate to senior levels of government for the continuation of CMHC funding programs including the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP), the Emergency Repair Program (ERP), and the Shelter Enhancement Program. Reference to the need for these programs in Chatham-Kent should be emphasized. 39. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent inform residents and builders of the federal funding programs available to renovate and repair older existing housing units. 40. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent consider supporting local agencies applying for CMHCs Shelter Enhancement Program funding. 41. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent continue to participate in the administration of the Energy Emergency Fund. -Completed RRAP will be terminated in March 31, 2012 PDFP includes (Ontario) Chatham-Kent Renovates allocation. IAH PDFP endorsed by Council January 30, 2012 and submitted to MMAH on January 31, 2012. All RRAP Programs of CMHC are finished March 31, 2012. PDFP includes (Ontario) Chatham-Kent Renovates allocation. IAH PDFP endorsed by Council January 30, 2012 and submitted to MMAH on January 31, 2012. No new funding for ERP and SEP announced to date.
-Not -Applicable
-Completed
Did provide information on RRAP. PDFP includes (Ontario) Chatham-Kent Renovates allocation. IAH PDFP endorsed by Council January 30, 2012 and submitted to MMAH on January 31, 2012. Supported CKWC Shelters application for recent improvements.
-Completed
-Completed ____________ -Ongoing
Provincial One-Time Energy Bank established August 2004; continued annually as one-time funding in subsequent years This program will be consolidated under the new Housing Services Act. OMSSA and OW Strategic Management Group continues to advocate for base funding of this program.
183
2006 Recommendation
42. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent join other Service Managers to advocate for the Energuide for Low Income Households to be reinstated and funding re-allocated.
Status
Background/Progress
Support advocacy of OMSSA and SMHN. Working with CK Energy & OPA Anticipating Fall 2011 announcement. Launch of CK Energys Home Assistance Program (February 7, 2012) with social housing private non-profit housing providers. March 5, 2012 is the Community Launch session. Chatham-Kents energy delivery agent for program is Green Saver. Advocacy of OMSSA and SMHN ongoing. Support advocacy of SHSC / ONPHA / CHFC 2006 BCAs/RFFs and Letters to Ministers. Support advocacy in 2011 EBCAs/RFFs and Letters to Ministers. Letter received from Hon. Diane Finley acknowledging receipt of letter from Mayor/CEO Randy Hope July 29, 2011 sharing the results of the Municipalitys 2010-2011 Energized Building Conditions Assessments and Reserve Fund Forecasts. Letter notes the positive impact of the Provinces Social Housing Renovation and Retrofit Program (SHRRP) on the aggregate capital reserve fund for social housing.
43. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent continue to advocate to MMAH for capital reserve contribution increases at a level that ensures social housing providers are able to meet their obligations and undertake necessary capital repairs.
Strategic Housing Direction 4: Housing Supports and Services Ongoing efforts to expand the range of available housing supports and access to required services will enable all Chatham-Kent residents to live in healthy, safe and secure environments. 44. That Chatham-Kent consider establishing a Working Group on Older Adults Housing to examine more in depth the appropriateness of housing options for older adults. This Group should include both private and non-profit housing sector representation and should examine both private and non-profit housing options for seniors. -Completed Chatham-Kent Seniors Advisory Committee appointed by Council. Director of Seniors Services is the staff support person. Committee is comprised of each community seniors centre (except one). Committee supported Riverview Terrace project. Older Adults housing needs were explored during a number of Municipal initiatives: Housing Forum Seniors Survey Regional Community Events Healthy Communities Event CK-SH 0602 Social Housing Cascading Age Policy and Procedure Issued August 31/06 and Effective October 1/06 after consultation with PNPs with a Seniors Mandate.
45. That Chatham-Kent implement the cascading age policy similar to the one put in place in the City of Kingston to address the Seniors Age Policy for Social Housing issue.
-Completed
184
2006 Recommendation
46. That the Municipality monitor the development of the Erie St. Clair LHIN, especially as related to its role in funding supportive housing and support services in the community. 47. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent continue to pursue funding under the Homelessness Prevention Program in order to help homeless individuals and those at risk of homelessness. 48. That the Municipality advocate to the Province for additional funding under its rent bank program. 49. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent lend its support to community agencies interested in pursuing additional funding from MOH-LTC and MCSS to address the identified needs outlined within the Housing Needs Assessment.
Status
-Completed & -Ongoing -Ongoing
Background/Progress
Director, Senior Services attended LHIN Community Agency Meetings.
This program will be consolidated under the new Housing Services Act
-Completed
Both Ontario Works and Social Housing regularly advocated for additional funding. MMAH established base funding for 2010 onward. This program will be consolidated under the new Housing Services Act
50. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent advocate to the Homelessness Secretariat to allocate funds under the Supporting Community Partnership Initiatives (SCPI) to Chatham-Kent.
Recommendation endorsed by Council. Regional Planning Committee (Chatham, Sarnia-Lambton & Windsor Essex communities) held summit ( Promoting Healthy Living, Housing, and Community Design) CCAC application denied (to extend some senior support services in Chatham seniors housing projects) AHP referral agreements support for Remmcor Application for HPS funding made in 2011 and application was denied. New requirement under HSA for January 1, 2014.
185
2006 Recommendation
51. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent conduct a survey a social housing providers and tenants in order to determine what supports are needed to not only foster positive tenantlandlord relationships but to provide the necessary supports to tenants in order for them to maintain their housing. 52. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent examine the feasibility of funding support programs similar to those provided for Hope Housing for all Municipal funded housing providers including public housing providers.
Status
-Not started Pending HSU
Background/Progress
-Not started
Municipality tries to provide some supports for its housing, but not sufficiently resourced to do so. Pending HSU.
53. That the Municipality work with the Salvation Army Housing Support Services program to expand its awareness and understanding of the services provided by the Salvation Army for landlords and tenants and encourage landlords and tenants to access these services where appropriate. 54. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, through the development of its Transportation Master Plan, further identify the transportation needs of communities within the Municipality and outline strategic policies to meet these needs; including the feasibility of providing some form of public transportation to rural communities.
-Completed
Ontario Works facilitated meeting with Chatham-Kent Landlord Association in 2008. Salvation Army works closely with Landlords.
-Completed
(2008) Transportation Master Plan adopted March 3, 2008 The Municipality of Chatham-Kent currently operates three of the four potential interurban transit routes. This provides access to public transit for approximately 75% of the geographic area of the Municipality. Roll-out of the fourth route is subject to public consultation and Council approval for budget considerations. All interurban vehicles are accessible.
186
2006 Recommendation
55. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent establish a Youth Housing Task Force to examine more in-depth the needs of Youth in the Municipality: what funding options are available, what is an appropriate housing model, and to explore other issues affecting Youth such as employment. This Task Force should include a broad representation of stakeholders including representatives from the Mayors Youth Council, Ontario Works, education and employment services, youth support services, housing providers, and economic development. Other community organizations such as United Way may also want to be considered. This Task Force should work in conjunction with existing community partners currently working at addressing Youth issues to ensure a coordinated effort at meeting the needs of Youth in Chatham-Kent. 56. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent work with local community agencies providing support services to seniors to pursue strategies to bring more support services to rural areas to help seniors stay in their communities. 57. That the Municipality of Chatham-Kent work with community agencies to determine the feasibility of agencies traveling to rural communities to provide necessary supports where a need is determined.
Status
Background/Progress
March 2006 Youth Housing Needs Committee established per 2006 Housing Study recommendations. Hired 0.5 FTE Municipal Youth Co-Ordinator and 0.5 FTE Immigration Support United Ways Youth Engagement Strategy completed. Recently applied for funding for a Co-Coordinator supported by CKHS and OW.
Regional Planning Committee Summit Event and Healthy Community Events considered this recommendation. Will continue to advocate to LHIN; consistent with Homes First Provincial Strategy (aging at-home philosophy). Encourage / provide hubs at municipal locations, eg. Library Branches, Best Start Centers; Municipal Centres / information desks.
-Ongoing
187
Appendix F Chatham-Kent Housing Plan
188
Chatham-Kent Housing Plan

2012-2022
BACKGROUND
The Housing Services Act was passed on May 4, 2011 and received proclamation on January 1, 2012. The Housing Services Act is a key part of Ontarios Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy (LTAHS). It is a goal of the LTAHS to consolidate Ontarios housing and homelessness programs to give municipalities more flexibility in addressing their local needs. As outlined in the Housing Services Act, it is a requirement for all Services Managers to have Housing and Homelessness Plans. These Plans must: Identify current and future housing needs Include objectives and targets relating to housing needs Describe measures proposed to meet these goals Describe how progress towards meeting the identifies goals will be measured It is also a requirement that Plans encompass a 10 year period and a review and reporting at least once every 5 years. Plans must incorporate public consultation (including specifically the needs of victims of domestic violence and persons with disabilities). Final approval of the Plans must be in place no later than January 1, 2014.
PURPOSE
Housing is a vital human need. Housing choices, including affordable, accessible and supportive housing, are critical components of prosperous, complete and healthy communities. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent and its housing partners have an important role in the provision of housing for all residents. The purpose of the Chatham-Kent Housing Plan is to meet the diverse range of housing needs of individuals and families in Chatham-Kent and to fulfill the provincial requirements pursuant to the Housing Services Act and the Ontario Housing Policy Statement. This will be achieved through the full implementation of the ChathamKent Housing Plan - Vision, Objectives, Targets and Actions.
189
LOCAL HOUSING NEEDS

The Housing Study Update (HSU) (March 2012) provided a comprehensive update to the 2006 Housing Study. The HSU identifies a number of local housing issues facing the community over the next ten years. NEW HOUSING STOCK SHOULD BE FURTHER DIVERSIFIED Based on projections16, there will need to be an average annual increase of 194 new units over the 2011 to 2031 period. While the creation of new units is keeping pace with demand, activity by type has not shown much diversification (approximately 80% of starts over 2005-2010 period were single detached). Smaller households and aging of the population further emphasize the need for a diverse and flexible stock. EXISTING HOUSING STOCK THAT IS TYPICALLY MORE AFFORDABLE IS AGING AND IN POORER CONDITION The housing stock in Chatham-Kent remains older than the average for the provincial stock as a whole and the municipality experienced less new development since the last Census period. Aging housing stock means higher energy costs making it less affordable and possibly less safe. EMPLOYMENT TRENDS DUE TO ECONOMIC SHIFTS CAN CREATE DEMAND FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING High unemployment rates as a result of job loss and the recent economic downturn and increasing demand for income assistance influences household stability and affordability. SENIORS POPULATION REQUIRES A RANGE OF HOUSING AND SUPPORT OPTIONS The aging of the population will continue with forecasts estimating that over onethird of the total population will be over the age of 55 by 2031. Many seniors are staying at home longer and looking for supports in the home. This is consistent with provincial directions, which are emphasizing more aging at home options for seniors. Waiting lists for affordable long term care are growing as are waiting lists for senior social housing units. AFFORDABILITY REMAINS AN ISSUE IN BOTH RENTAL AND OWNERSHIP MARKETS Many renter households are facing affordability challenges and for about twenty percent of households the private rental market is out of reach. Waiting lists for social housing have increased as have the number of households in receipt of income assistance. While the homeownership market is affordable to most households it is still out of reach for households in the lower income ranges. Population groups such as lone parents, single persons, youth, Aboriginal persons, and persons with disabilities are experiencing higher rates of affordability challenges.
16
All population and household projections are based on data provided by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd.
190
VACANCY RATES REMAIN HIGH Social housing units saw vacancy rates decline for adult and seniors buildings while vacancy rates remain higher for family units particularly in Wallaceburg. Vacancy rate in the private market remain high at about 7% (a healthy vacancy rate is generally considered 3%). Given fairly high vacancy rates and continued wait list for some type of social housing units, additional rent supplement units should be considered in addition to the creation of new rental units. RURAL RESIDENTS FACE BARRIERS IN ACCESSING SERVICES While there have been some improvements to public transportation, access to services remains a challenge for individuals, in particular seniors and persons with disabilities, to access the services they need. SOME SOCIAL HOUSING TENANTS WOULD BENEFIT FROM SUPPORT SERVICES Stakeholders emphasized a continued need for support services for some social housing tenants. Often residents need assistance with lifeskills (parenting, healthy eating, budgeting etc.), and counselling in order to maintain their home. NEED FOR RANGE OF SPECIAL NEEDS HOUSING OPTIONS (Emergency/Transitional, Supportive, Accessible) There is a limited supply of emergency, transitional and supportive housing in Chatham-Kent. Demand for supportive housing has been increasing and stakeholders point to a lack of emergency options for youth, men and single women. The need for more accessible housing also continues and is anticipated to increase with the aging of population.
HOUSING VISION
On National Housing Day, November 22, 2011, community partners gathered to collectively set a direction for housing in Chatham-Kent. Partners included support service agencies and non-profit organizations, housing providers, the private sector and municipal staff. A housing vision resulted from this dialogue:
Achieving this vision calls for great leadership from the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and strong dedication by all stakeholders.
191
HOUSING TARGETS
To work towards this vision, and to meet necessary senior government regulations, housing targets have been developed. Chatham-Kents target for new housing supply includes:
25% Affordable Housing (including 2% supportive) and 5% Accessible Housing
In Chatham-Kent this means: Affordable rental housing is housing where monthly rental costs (excluding utilities) do not exceed 30 percent of the tenant gross monthly household income and is rented at or below the average market rent for a rental unit in the Municipality of ChathamKent. Affordable ownership housing is housing where monthly housing expenses (including mortgage principle, interest and property tax but excluding insurance or utilities expense) do not exceed 30 percent of gross monthly household income and where the purchase price is at least 10% below the average purchase price of a resale home in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Supportive housing is housing for persons with disabilities (mental, physical, and/or developmental disabilities) and/or seniors. Accessible housing refers to units/dwellings that would meet the requirements of Chatham-Kent Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS) (2006). These targets are aimed at increasing the supply of affordable, supportive and accessible housing throughout the Municipality and form the foundation for the development of housing actions.
HOUSING OBJECTIVES
To support the housing vision and targets, six housing objectives have been identified:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Plan for a diverse range of housing choices Improve and maintain existing housing supply Increase supply of affordable housing Ensure availability of emergency and transitional housing options Promote expanding range of housing support services Promote, educate and create awareness of housing needs
192
ACTIONS, MEASURES AND INDICATORS

ACTION MEASURES INDICATORS
Plan for a diverse range of housing

1. Incorporate and adopt the housing vision, objectives and targets (as outlined in the Housing Study Update) as part of the Official Plan review. 2. Eliminate zoning barriers that create restrictions for affordable and supportive housing development options. Official Plan Review Adoption of new Official Plan which includes the Municipalitys housing vision, objectives and targets
Identification and removal of zoning barriers during Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw review process (to follow OP review) Number of new affordable housing units/year Number of new emergency and transitional housing units/year Number of new supportive housing units/year
3. Include a policy as part of Official Plan Review which permits second suites in all residential zones in accordance with appropriate planning criteria. 4. Adopt accessible housing targets as follows:
Adoption of new Official Plan (including second suite policy) by Council Number of new affordable housing units created/year
Annual Housing Report Card Evaluate and update every five years to support Official Plan Review and Housing and Homelessness Plan review requirements
Number of new accessible housing units/year
5% of new multi-unit housing units be accessible (fully modified to meet ChathamKent Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS))
Improve and maintain existing supply

5. Continue to participate in housing renovation funding Program Delivery and Fiscal Plan17 Number of households assisted through (Ontario) Chatham-Kent Renovates (and
17
Chatham-Kent Program Delivery and Fiscal Plan was approved by Council on January 30, 2012.
193
ACTION
programs.
MEASURES
INDICATORS
other) programs Number of households reporting home in need of major repairs (every five years only per Census data) Completion and adoption of Report Number of rent-geared-to-income (RGI) units funded each year
6. Develop a plan to maintain service level standards as required by the Housing Services Act. 7. Continue to complete regular building condition assessments and commit funding to social housing reserves.
Service Level Standards Report Annual Housing Report Card Building Condition Assessment Reports Annual Housing Report Card
Completion of Building Condition Assessments updates every five years Investment in capital maintenance of social housing (municipal corporate life cycle approved budget)
8. Develop a strategic asset management plan for social housing stock.
Strategic Asset Management Plan Annual Housing Report Card
Completion and adoption of Strategic Asset Management Plan including short, medium and long term directions. Progress in meeting Strategic Asset Management Plan initiatives and priorities on an annual basis. Completion of report determining most appropriate approach to meet family housing needs in Wallaceburg Report on progress in executing the approved approach to meet family housing needs in Wallaceburg on an annual basis
9. Investigate feasibility and appropriateness of selling family units in Wallaceburg to address vacancy concerns, and determine most appropriate reallocation of units to meet current and projected housing needs (maintaining service level standards).
Summary report of analysis and options for addressing social housing vacancies in Wallaceburg Annual Housing Report Card
Increase Supply of Affordable Housing

10. Adopt affordable housing targets as follows: 25% affordable housing, including 2% supportive housing Annual Housing Report Card Evaluate and update every five years to support Official Plan Review and Housing and Homelessness Plan review requirements. Adoption of new Official Plan (including affordable housing and supportive housing target) by Council Number of new affordable units created/year Number of new supportive units created/year
194
ACTION
MEASURES
INDICATORS
Cumulative total of affordable units created toward housing target
11. Encourage linkages with various funding programs and municipal incentives to maximize funding potential for affordable housing. 12. Adopt definition of affordable housing, as per the Provincial Policy Statement and Municipal Facilities Bylaw, as part of the current Official Plan review. 13. Continue to participate in affordable housing programs and other funding programs that may become available in order to achieve affordable housing targets.
New partnerships and collaborations Amount of investment in affordable housing by all partners
Adoption of new Official Plan (including affordable housing definition) by Council
Program Delivery and Fiscal Plan Annual Housing Report Card
Number of new affordable units created/year Cumulative total of affordable units created toward housing target Amount of investments in affordable housing by all partners
Annual Housing Report Card)
Number of new affordable units created/year Cumulative total of affordable units created toward housing target Amount of investments (financial and inkind) in affordable housing
Ensure availability of emergency and transitional housing options

15. Investigate opportunities to collaborate with housing providers and local support agencies to provide emergency and supportive housing options within existing buildings that may be experiencing vacancies. Homelessness Plan Annual Housing Report Card New partnerships and collaborations Number of new emergency and transitional housing units/year Number of new supportive housing units/year Number of new applicants waiting for supportive housing Average vacancy rates (private and public) 16. Further analyze emergency and transitional Homelessness Plan Completion and adoption of Homelessness
195
ACTION
housing and support needs within Municipality (including consultation with persons experiencing homelessness) in order to develop a Homelessness Plan which responds to the requirements of the Housing Services Act. 17. Support community agencies (i.e. in accessing funding opportunities) in developing emergency and transitional housing and support options for youth, men, and single women.
MEASURES
INDICATORS
Plan Number of households assisted by (Municipal) homelessness programs
Homelessness Plan Annual Housing Report Card
Investments in emergency and transitional housing New partnerships and collaborations Number of new emergency and transitional housing units/year
Promote expanding range of support services

18. Conduct landlord and tenant positive relationship workshop. Workshop on Landlord and Tenant Relations Annual Housing Report Card Completion of workshop and summary report New partnerships and collaborations Average vacancy rates (private and public) Number of new tenant support services 19. Broaden membership of Seniors Advisory Committee to include more agencies (i.e. CCAC). Seniors Advisory Committee membership Annual Housing Report Card Homelessness Plan Survey of Social Housing Providers on Tenant Support Needs Annual Housing Report Card Broadened membership of Seniors Advisory Committee New partnerships and collaborations
20. Conduct a survey of social housing providers and tenants to determine supports needed to foster positive tenantlandlord relationships and to identify supports needed to assist tenants to maintain their housing.
Number of surveys respondents Survey summary report New partnerships and collaborations Number of new tenant support services Average vacancy rates (private and public) Number of evictions in public housing stock
21. Initiate community working group comprised of housing providers, municipal staff (Housing Services), support service agencies as
Homelessness Plan Community Supports Working Group
Establishment of Working Group membership and terms of reference New partnerships and collaborations
196
ACTION
well as representation from the Erie St. Clair CCACs Chatham-Kent Geographic Implementation Committee for Home First to identify opportunities to leverage resources and provide more support services for tenants. 22. Continue efforts to provide service hubs at municipal locations to assist support agencies in delivering support services to rural communities.
MEASURES
INDICATORS
Number of new tenant support services initiatives
New partnerships and collaborations Number of new services offered in rural communities
23. Conduct target focus groups to further identify housing and support service needs of Aboriginal persons, persons with disabilities, homeless persons, victims of domestic violence, and youth.
Homelessness Plan Target Focus Groups Annual Housing Report Card
Completion and adoption of Homelessness Plan Completion of focus groups and summary report
Promote, educate and create awareness of housing issues

24. Continue to be a leader in further education and awareness of housing issues. Annual Housing Report Card Prosperity Roundtable participation Annual Housing Report Card Number of new housing education and awareness initiatives Documented contribution to Prosperity Roundtable Number of new housing and support service advocacy efforts Status of advocacy efforts
25. Continue to advocate with local and provincial partners on such issues as: Increases to income support programs Inclusionary zoning provisions Continued and increased funding for housing assistance (emergency housing, social housing, affordable housing, rent banks, energy banks etc.) Simplified guidelines/rules for
197
ACTION
funding programs 26. Conduct affordable housing capacity workshop to bring together potential partners (i.e. community organizations, private corporations, developers, builders, financial institutions, support service agencies, real estate sector etc.) to work towards enhancing capacity for affordable housing programs.
MEASURES
INDICATORS
Capacity Workshop Annual Housing Report Card
Completion of workshop and summary report New partnerships and collaborations Number of new affordable housing units created/year
CO-ORDINATION AND PARTNERSHIP

Achieving this vision calls for leadership from the Municipality and strong dedication by all housing partners. While the Municipality Chatham-Kent has a leadership role to play, community partners from across sectors must come together, each with a unique contribution, to achieve the housing targets and housing objectives over the next ten years. Partners included in the development and implementation of this Plan include: Housing Providers Private Sector Community Agencies and Non-Profit Organizations Municipal Staff (various departments) Senior Government Staff In addition, the successful accomplishment of the housing objectives outlined within this Plan will be achieved through co-ordinated planning with other community initiatives and processes. This includes Municipal initiatives (i.e. Official Plan Review and Growth Analysis, Chatham-Kent Community Strategic Plan, Healthy Community Initiatives, Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Cultural Master Plan, and Transportation Master Plan), as well as non-profit and private housing and support service initiatives. Future developments in the integration of human services planning and delivery will also help inform and guide the implementation of housing and homelessness programs and services. Several actions outlined within the Housing Plan are aimed at further developing a co-ordinated framework for the delivery of housing and homelessness services (in particular Actions 21 and 26).
198
MONITORING
To ensure accountability and to meet the requirements of the Housing Services Act, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent will prepare an annual Housing Report Card to monitor community progress in meeting the housing actions and targets. The Housing Report Card includes indicators such as number of new units created (affordable, accessible, supportive, and other), updated waiting list statistics, amount of funding contributed towards housing, number of partnerships created, number of educational initiatives implemented, etc. Other measuring tools include the five-year Official Plan review as well as the new required five-year Housing and Homelessness Plans review. Additional reports and consultation activities will also be used to measure the achievement of the housing actions.
SUMMARY
This Housing Plan outlines the vision and direction for housing in Chatham-Kent for the period 2012-2022. Importantly, this Housing Plan will be monitored on an annual basis through the Chatham-Kent Housing Report Card. In addition a comprehensive review of this Plan will be completed in 2017 including community consultation activities and an evaluation of all housing actions and targets.
199
Appendix G Chatham-Kent Housing Report Card
200
Chatham-Kent
Housing Report Card

January December 2012 Overall Summary
Insert general description on community progress towards housing actions and targets. Include as part of this description the total number of affordable housing units, accessible units, and supportive units created to target. 2011 2012
DEMOGRAPHIC INDICATORS
Population Population Growth (%) Households Household Growth (%) Unemployment Rate Ontario Works Maximum Shelter Allowance for One Benefit Unit ODSP Maximum Shelter Allowance for One Benefit Unit General Minimum Wage Average Household Income Median Household Income Change in Consumer Price Index from Previous Year
HOUSING INDICATORS
Average Market Rent Average Vacancy Rate (private rental market) Average Resale House Price Singles/Semis 201
Average Resale House Price Rows Average Resale House Price Condo Number of Social Housing Units Number of Households on Social Housing Waiting List as of December 31st Number Of Households Housed from the Social Housing Waiting List Number Of New Applications for the Social Housing Waiting List Number of Evictions (public housing) Average Vacancy Rate for Social Housing Units Number of New Building Permits Issued for Single Detached Houses Number of New Building Permits Issued for Semi-Detached Number of New Building Permits Issued for Rows Number of New Building Permits Issued for Apartments Number Of New Emergency and Transitional Housing Units Number Of New Supportive Housing Units Number of New Applicants Waiting for Supportive Housing Units Number of New Accessible Housing Units Total Number of New Affordable Units Created this Year Cumulative Total of Affordable Units Created Toward Housing Targets Number Of Households Assisted Through Ontario Renovates (and other)
HOUSING SUPPORT SERVICE INDICATORS

Number of New Tenant Support Services Number of New Services in Rural Communities Number of Households Assisted by Energy/Renovation Programs Number of Households in Receipt of OW Number of Households in Receipt of ODSP Number of Households Assisted by (Municipal) Homelessness Programs
202
INVESTMENT INDICATORS
This area provides space for outlining investments in affordable housing, including Investment in capital maintenance of social housing Financial investments in affordable housing by all partners Local government (waiving of fees, land etc.) Senior government (IAH, Ontario Renovates, SEED etc.) In-kind investments in affordable housing
PROGRESS ON HOUSING ACTIONS

This area provides space for outlining progress on strategic actions. Description should describe all completed actions as well as all activities initiated in response to housing strategy.
PROGRESS IN PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

This area provides space for outlining new partnerships and efforts of collaboration to meet housing actions and targets.
203
PROGRESS IN HOUSING AWARENESS

This area provides space for outlining all housing education and awareness initiatives including all housing and support service advocacy efforts.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
This area provides space for general comments and description of any other community activities aimed at achieving the housing vision for Chatham-Kent.
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CK Housing Study Update 2012

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CK Housing Study Update 2012

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Municipality of Chatham-Kent

Housing Study Update

Framework for Developing Housing Policy

Provincial Policy Statement

Housing Study Update

CK Transportation Master Plan CK Community Strategic Plan

Investment in Affordable Housing Program CK Healthy Community Initiatives

CK Cultural Master Plan

CHATHAM-KENT HOUSING PLAN FRAMEWORK

Senior Govt Policy

Update Statistical Analysis

Prepare Housing Needs Report

Review 2006 Housing Actions

Conduct Stakeholder Workshop

Prepare Housing Objectives and Measures

Prepare Preliminary Housing Plan

Figure 1: The Chatham-Kent Geographical Area

Source: Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Map of Chatham-Kent, 2011

Emergency and Transitional

Affordable (rental and ownership)

2.0 Demographic Profile

Figure 3: Comparative Growth Rates, 1986/1991 to 2001/2006, Chatham-Kent and Ontario

25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0% -5.0%

10.8% 6.6% 6.1% 0.8% -1.8% 6.6% 1.7%

Figure 4: Historical Population by Community (Percent of Total Population), 2001-2006

45.0% 40.0% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0%

10.0% 5.0% 0.0%

Community 2001 2006

Figure 5: Historical Population by Community (Absolute Numbers), 2001-2006

50,000 45,000 40,000 35,000

Community 2001 2006

Source: Statistics Canada; 2001, 2006 Census of Canada

Figure 6: Change in Population by Community, Chatham-Kent, 2001-2006

5.0% 0.0% -5.0% -10.0% -15.0%

Figure 7: Trends in Age Distribution, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006

30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%

Source: Statistics Canada; 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada

Including Census Undercount*

20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%

Figure 10: Number of Households by Community, 2006

Source: Statistics Canada, Custom Tabulation 2006 Census

5 0 1 Person 2 Persons 1991 3 Persons 1996 2001 4-5 Persons 2006

Source: Statistics Canada; 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada

Figure 13: Trends in Historical Households by Household Type, Chatham-Kent, 1991-2006

Percent of Total Households

40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Lone Parents

38.7% 16,920 3.6%, 12,550 27.2% 11,860 25.0% 10,900

Couples with Children

Couples without Children

Selected Household Characteristics

Figure 15: Household Projections, Chatham-Kent, 2006-2031

48,205 7,070 2,890

Source: Watson & Associates Economists Ltd., 2011

Figure 16: Unemployment Rates by Community, Chatham-Kent, (2001-2006)

16.0% 14.0% 12.0% 10.0% 8.0% 6.0% 4.0% 2.0% 0.0%

Community 2001 2006

Source: Statistics Canada; 2001, 2006 Census of Canada

Source: Chatham-Kent Economic Development Services, 2011

Source: Statistics Canada; 2006 Census of Canada

Source: Statistics Canada; 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada

25,000 20,000 15,000

Source: Statistics Canada; 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006 Census of Canada

Average Household Income

$50,000 $40,000 $30,000