WARD 5 COUNCILLOR BONNIE CROMBIE HOSTS SUCCESSFUL PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON SECOND UNITS IN MALTON

www.insurancerate.com StarBuzz Weekly, Toronto-Mississauga (February 24, 2012) Ward 5 City Councillor Bonnie Crombie and city staff hosted a successful public consultation last night at the Malton Community Centre on the topic of the permissibility of second units, often referred to as basement apartments or in-law suites.

The event attracted over 30 residents in the Malton area keen on shaping the direction of the new regulations that will govern second units in Mississauga. Both Councillor Crombie and city staff received insightful feedback from the participants about how second units should be governed in Malton and how residents can take advantage of the potential opportunities a second unit can create.  

“I was pleased that so many residents came out to provide their thoughts on this important topic,” said Crombie. “The legitimization, regulation and enforcement of second units is long overdue, but before we proceed we must ensure we strike the right balance and develop a made-in-Mississauga solution. There are a lot of elements to consider, including the impact on city services, safety and building code, and parking to name just a few.  However, the benefits of second units in terms of additional income and increased affordable housing options are very attractive.”

The consultation in Malton was just one of five that are being hosted across the city throughout February and March. The consultations stem from the passage of the Ontario Strong Communities through Affordable Housing Act, 2011 that permits second units in Ontario municipalities. Following the passage of this legislation, each municipality will need to develop their own by-laws and regulations.

“I have received a lot of calls from residents about basement apartments," said Crombie. “It is a big issue facing this community and our task is to ensure that they are regulated properly and that those who build these second units are following the rules. If done properly, second units will greatly benefit this community and this city.”

Following the consultations, city staff will review the resident feedback and develop recommendations on how the city should proceed.  If residents want to provide their input, there will be another session on March 1^st at the Meadowvale Community Centre and on March 6^th in the Council Chambers.  Residents can visit www.mississauga.ca/housingchoices for more details.