A Collaborative Partnership to Advance New Affordable Housing Options in Owen Sound

The urgent need for affordable, safe housing is not unique to the Scenic City, but it is a pressing one. To address this challenge head-on, the City of Owen Sound is taking decisive action through a strategic partnership with the Province of Ontario, Owen Sound Housing Company Limited (OSHCL), and Grey County. 

At the July 21, 2025 City Council meeting, Council approved a deliberate and coordinated action that will begin the transfer of lands adjacent to Bayfield Landing to the Owen Sound Housing Company Limited. This strategic use of lands recently acquired with support from Grey County and the Province of Ontario, will directly support the development of affordable housing.   

The intention is for the site to be developed with the most in-demand housing type on the County's waitlist, responding directly to the needs of individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity in our community.  

This initiative demonstrates how effective intergovernmental collaboration can tackle complex challenges. Developing affordable housing is a shared responsibility among the City of Owen Sound, Grey County, and the Province of Ontario. By combining our unique resources and expertise within this overlapping mandate, we can achieve results that none of us could accomplish alone. This project serves as a local example of how coordinated action produces tangible benefits for the entire community. 

The effort reflects the City of Owen Sound’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis through strategic use of public assets and strong partnerships. By leveraging City-owned land and working closely with non-profit and government partners, we are creating real, lasting solutions for residents who are struggling to find safe, stable, and affordable places to live. 

This project represents a crucial step in Owen Sound's proactive approach to housing challenges. As we move forward with the land transfer, we remain committed to building a stronger, more inclusive community where every resident has access to quality, affordable housing. 

For more information, please contact Kate Allan, Director of Corporate Services at 519-376-4440 ext. 1238 or email kallan@owensound.ca 

Quotes: 

“Access to safe, affordable housing is one of the most urgent challenges facing our community—and we’re taking action. Through collaboration with Grey County, the Province, and the Owen Sound Housing Company Limited, we are turning public land into a public good. This partnership is a powerful example of what can happen when all levels of government come together with a shared purpose: to build a stronger, more inclusive Owen Sound—one home at a time.” 

 - Ian Boddy, Mayor of the City of Owen Sound  

“Our government is pleased to help support the development of more affordable housing in the City of Owen Sound. Across Ontario, we’re building stronger communities by turning underused properties into much-needed housing, long-term care homes and other social infrastructure. We congratulate the City of Owen Sound, Grey County and the Owen Sound Housing Company Limited for their successful efforts to deliver critical housing for residents.”

- Kinga Surma, Ontario's Minister of Infrastructure 

- Paul Vickers, MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound  

Quick Facts: 

• Collaborative Effort: This project brings together the City of Owen Sound, Grey County, the Province of Ontario, and the Owen Sound Housing Company Limited to address housing needs through coordinated local action. 

• City Led Initiative: This city-led initiative demonstrates Owen Sound's proactive approach to the affordable housing crisis, with municipal leadership driving concrete steps toward expanding housing options in our community.