Durham Region Housing Review

Durham Region Housing Review Community Consultations Background Report No. 5 January 2014

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Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS PREMABLE... i 1. CONSULTATION PROCESS... 1 1.1 Community Workshops... 1 1.2 Focus Groups... 2 1.3 Private Non-profit and Co-operative Non-profit Housing Providers... 2 1.4 Regional Staff... 3 1.5 Aboriginal People... 3 1.6 Regional and Area Municipal Planning Staff... 3 1.7 Online Survey... 4 1.8 Feedback Validation Process... 4 2. COMMUNITY WORKSHOP RESULTS... 5 3. FOCUS GROUP RESULTS... 7 3.1 Mental Health... 7 3.2 University/College Students... 8 3.3 Victims of Domestic Violence... 9 3.4 Homelessness... 10 3.5 Youth... 11 3.6 Seniors... 11 3.7 Non-profit and Co-operative Housing Providers... 12 3.8 Regional Staff... 13 3.9 Aboriginal People... 16 3.10 Regional and Area Municipal Planning Staff... 17 4. ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS... 18 4.1 Lack of Affordable Housing Supply and Housing Affordability... 19 4.2 Effective and Enabling Planning Tools... 20 4.3 More and Better Access to Support Services and Supportive Housing... 22 4.4 Regional Focus during the next 10 Years... 24 5. SUMMARY OF KEY MESSAGES... 26 6. GLOSSARY... 28 Appendix 1: ONLINE SURVEY Appendix 2: ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS Appendix 3: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 TABLE OF FIGURES (Appendix 2) Table 1.1: Respondent Characteristics Table 1.2: Distribution of Municipal Sector Respondents Table 1.3: Distribution of Municipal Sector Respondents by Area of Work Table 2.1: Affordability Priority Ranking Table 3.1: Rental Housing Priority Ranking Table 4.1: Support Services Priority Ranking Table 5.1: Ranking of Housing Issues Identified Table 6.1: Ranking of Top Three Issues Identified by Respondents Table 6.2: Percentage of Responses to Top Three Issues Table 12.1: Ranking of Actions to Promote Healthy and Complete, Sustainable Communities Table 13.1: Ranking of the Suggested Roles for the Region Table 14.1: Ranking of Suggested Actions for the Region A2-i A2-ii A2-ii A2-iii A2-iii A2-iv A2-v A2-x A2-x A2-xix A2-xxi A2-xxiii

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 PREMABLE Establishing the Background for a Regional Housing Review Housing Review Background Report No. 5 is the fifth in a series comprising the Durham Housing Review, addressing: Housing policy context, trends and indicators (released May 4, 2010). Supply of housing and development activity (released September 28, 2010). Housing affordability (released May 26, 2011). Specialized housing needs (released November, 2012). Community consultations. This series of reports serves to: address housing issues 1 within Durham establish a basis for monitoring the effectiveness of the Region s policies influencing housing market conditions The Housing Review Background Reports were prepared jointly by the Planning and Economic Development, Social Services (Housing Services) and Finance departments. Background Report No. 5 was prepared with the assistance of a housing consulting firm, Toni Farley & Associates. The reports are available to the public online at www.durham.ca/housingreview. Developing a Durham Region Housing Plan The findings of the Housing Review Background Reports form the basis for the Durham Housing Plan, the final component of the Housing Review. The Region of Durham is responsible for the development of two provincially mandated plans, in consultation with appropriate stakeholders, to address the 1 Housing issues may include, but are not limited to: the range and supply of housing, in terms of type and tenure, size, location; price and affordability; residential intensification; land supply and servicing; maintenance and improvement of existing housing stock; and the planning approval process. i

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 housing needs of all residents, including the need for affordable housing. Specifically, the Region of Durham is required to develop: A 10-year plan to address housing and homelessness as required in its role as service manager under the Housing Services Act (HSA) and in accordance with the Ontario Housing Policy Statement. A housing strategy as required by the Provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The Region has aligned the 10-year housing and homelessness plan and the housing strategy into one comprehensive Durham Housing Plan that satisfies the requirements of both the HSA and the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and provides for a single vision to address housing issues in Durham. The integrated Durham Housing Plan will: Identify current and future housing needs. Set out objectives and targets (goals) relating to housing needs. Propose directions and/or actions to meet the goals and to reinforce the Region's roles as service manager, housing facilitator, researcher, monitor and social housing provider. Establish a process to measure and report progress towards meeting the identified goals. Recommend policy changes as necessary. The proposed Durham Housing Plan will be available online at www.durham.ca/housingreview for public consultation in February 2014. It has been circulated to area municipalities, community partners including social housing providers and participants in the community consultations for review and comment. The Durham Housing Plan is expected to be finalized in spring 2014. ii

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 1. CONSULTATION PROCESS To create a Durham Housing Plan, which would best address community needs and take into account local circumstances, an extensive consultation process was developed and undertaken. The consultation included a series of workshops, specific focus groups, individual interviews, and an online survey with the intent of obtaining broad based community input. At each consultation, an overview was given of the provincial requirements and local process for developing the Durham Housing Plan, as well as key findings to date based on the Region s previously completed Housing Review Background Reports. Sessions were facilitated by the consulting firm, Toni Farley and Associates and also attended by Regional staff from the Planning and Economic Development, Social Services (Housing Services) and Finance departments. Prior to the community consultations, outreach and information sessions were held with a number of Regional partners, including the: Durham Advisory Committee on Homelessness (DACH) Social Housing Advisory Group Best Start Network Durham Disability Advisory Committee Durham Immigration Portal Committee These sessions provided an opportunity for Regional staff to share information about the proposed strategy for the development of the Durham Housing Plan, obtain feedback on the proposed consultation process, and encourage partners to share information about the consultations with their members. 1.1 Community Workshops In August 2013, workshops open to the general public were held in Ajax, Beaverton, Bowmanville and Oshawa. In order to secure public engagement, a public service announcement and news release were issued, and the information was featured in local newspapers as well as on local radio. The Region s social media accounts, including Twitter and Facebook, were also utilized to promote the events. 1

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 To ensure that area municipal staff was made aware of these public workshops, the Region s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) sent a letter to his counterparts in each of the area municipalities, highlighting the purpose of the community consultations and identifying their time and location in that municipality. Area municipal planning staff was also alerted by the Director of Housing Services. In addition, personal e-mail invitations were sent to more than 500 individuals, both in the private and public sector, who are active in providing housing and/or support services within the region and/or have an interest in housing or homelessness in Durham. Invitations were extended to developers, landlords, health and social service agency representatives, and business contacts as referred by the Region s Economic Development Division. 1.2 Focus Groups In addition to the public consultations, specific individuals identified by Regional staff were invited to attend one of six focus groups for clients and support service staff in the following areas: Mental health and addictions University/College students Victims of domestic violence Homelessness Youth Seniors As well, interviews were held with residents of Durham s emergency shelters and domiciliary hostel to get first-hand perspectives on the needs of people with lived experience of homelessness. 1.3 Private Non-profit and Co-operative Non-profit Housing Providers Non-profit housing providers under the Region s administration were actively engaged in the process by means of a separate consultation held in July 2013. This was in follow up to prior meetings that had already been held with 2

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 housing providers through the Durham Region Social Housing Advisory Group to discuss the Durham Housing Plan. 1.4 Regional Staff Regional staff from all divisions and departments was invited to attend one of three consultations held at Regional Headquarters. These sessions were largely attended by staff from the Social Services, Works, Planning and Economic Development and Health departments, as well as the CAO s office. Many Regional staff involved in the management of the Durham Regional Local Housing Corporation (DRLHC) portfolio attended one of the three staff sessions. An additional consultation was conducted with staff responsible for property and asset management of the DRLHC, with specific focus on DRLHC needs that should be addressed in the Durham Housing Plan. A separate meeting was held with senior staff from the Social Services and Health departments to specifically discuss human services integration both current integration initiatives and potential future efforts. In order to gain input and perspectives from the Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) concerning provision of support services, an interview was held with the Senior Director, System Design and Implementation (LHIN), which focused on how the Region and the LHIN could work cooperatively. 1.5 Aboriginal People For the local Aboriginal perspective, meetings were held with the Durham Regional Aboriginal Advisory Circle, and with participants in the Aboriginal Family Gathering Program. In addition, a conference call was held with the Aboriginal lead at the Central East Local Health Integrated Network (LHIN). 1.6 Regional and Area Municipal Planning Staff As the Durham Housing Plan is in part intended to satisfy the requirement for a housing strategy under the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and given the importance of planning matters in the provision of affordable housing within the community, a separate consultation was held in September 2013 with representatives of Regional and area municipal planning staff. 3

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 1.7 Online Survey For those not able to attend a specific workshop or consultation session, an online survey was developed and posted on the Region s website at www.durham.ca/housingreview. This same website is, and will continue to be an information source for all progress and outcomes related to the Durham Housing Plan. The online survey was widely promoted by Regional staff who met with local service networks representing more than 200 community groups. They were advised of the survey, asked to complete it and encourage their clients to submit responses. The survey was also mentioned in the more than 500 invitations to consultations/focus groups issued and at every meeting held. The online survey was also publicized in the Regional public service announcements and referenced in news releases. The online survey was originally posted until August 23, 2013, but was extended until September 6, 2013 to allow greater public feedback. A copy of the online survey is attached as Appendix 1. 1.8 Feedback Validation Process Notes from the community workshops and focus group sessions were distributed by email to the participants for confirmation that their comments were accurately captured. This report (Housing Review Background Report No. 5) includes a summary of the community consultations and will be posted on the Region s website at www.durham.ca/housingreview in January 2014 to provide an opportunity for: Participants to verify feedback received throughout the consultation process. General public to comment on both the results of the community consultations and how this will be reflected in the Durham Housing Plan. 4

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 2. COMMUNITY WORKSHOP RESULTS Public views focused overwhelmingly on the need for more affordable housing and the availability of a range of housing options. Key issues identified (in no particular order) included: finding affordable housing in my community insufficient housing choices supportive housing for those with mental health issues appropriate housing for youth living on their own accessible housing for the people with physical disabilities supportive housing for seniors difficulty in accessing support services (especially in north Durham) how to access information cost of developing new rental housing (including municipal fees and charges) insufficient incomes to afford safe and secure housing (e.g., minimum wage; social assistance and unemployment) lack of serviced land in north Durham NIMBY-ism need for housing to be part of a continuum and result in socially integrated communities need for a regulatory framework that facilitates diverse forms of housing, creates affordable housing, and encourages and enables innovation. Due to low vacancy rates and a limited supply of affordable housing, many participants expressed concern that landlords could discriminate against marginalized populations creating an environment where unsafe or illegal housing is the only viable option. Many developers/landlords are reluctant to invest in rental housing because of the regulatory framework which they see as biased towards tenants. As well, there is little incentive to maintain properties when competition is limited in the affordable rental housing market (due to a lack of supply). Greater municipal oversight and reinstatement of a rental housing renovation program would incent landlords to bring their properties to standard. A desire was expressed for a range of housing that would enable residents to stay in their community of choice, whatever their stage in life or financial 5

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 circumstances. For this to occur, a variety of options need to be available for all age groups throughout the region, along with availability of any necessary support services. Access to support services was described as an overwhelming maze with inconsistent customer service, to the extent that some residents are actually deterred from pursuing the services they need. Help with system navigation and a no wrong door approach were indicated as potential solutions. Advocacy for funding with senior levels of government is required, as it was acknowledged that the Region cannot develop and renovate affordable housing on its own. Other potential solutions identified by the community included: Creating affordable housing: enabling municipal by-laws, policies and provincial legislation that assist with promoting secondary or garden suites, mobile homes, building smaller homes and condominiums, coownership and co-tenancy of homes; inclusionary zoning (e.g. requiring new development to provide a percentage of affordable housing); separate tax class for affordable housing. Development charges: reform to encourage affordable housing, possibly on a sliding scale such that the overall financial impact to the Region is neutral. Accessibility: incorporate universal design concepts for people with physical disabilities in the design/build policies at the regional and municipal levels; reintroduce funding programs for retrofit of existing homes for the elderly and the people with disabilities cancellation of the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) accessibility funding and its replacement with Ontario tax credits disadvantages those on low income who do not have the funds for necessary renovations. Healthy and complete, sustainable communities: plan communities to encourage active modes of transportation and affordable housing within easy access to transit facilities; locate high density housing close to main streets with amenities; ensure ready access to transit and in urban growth areas, regional/local centres and corridors higher densities would support effective and efficient public transit; save quality farmland from urban development; fast track affordable and sustainable 6

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 development; give builders incentives to build needed housing; and encourage walkable communities. Safe affordable housing: enforce municipal standards to ensure housing is physically safe, especially rooming houses and other private rental housing that is occupied principally by students, youth and lowincome families. The condition of some of the existing rental stock is substandard and needs to be improved through the enforcement of property standards. Many individuals who live in substandard housing are forced to do so because they cannot afford safer alternatives and fear reprisal from their landlords if complaints are lodged with municipal officials. Affordable housing in north Durham: enable innovative and costeffective solutions so that seniors and youth can remain in their community of choice. 3. FOCUS GROUP RESULTS 3.1 Mental Health The key issues specifically identified at the Mental Health Focus Group were: Need for more affordable and rent-geared-to-income housing with a high level of support. Need for agency funding to hire more support staff. Difficulty for those with mental health issues to secure and maintain housing. Securing housing is difficult as some landlords may discriminate against those with mental health issues, and many have insufficient income to be able to afford private market apartment rents. Poor mental health is not conducive to shared living arrangements, so unsafe rooming houses can become the only option. Associated substance abuse, complex health issues and poor decision making ability often impact housing stability. Supports are necessary to both secure and maintain housing. There is a concentration of individuals with mental health issues in Whitby where services are available; however, there are insufficient support workers 7

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 to serve the community. When discharge plans cannot identify necessary housing and support, hospital bottlenecks result. It is particularly difficult to place seniors with mental (and other) health issues not yet ready for long-term care. As well, there are no programs for those experiencing multiple disabilities. Group homes and low-level supportive housing are thought to meet current needs. However, affordable bachelor apartments with a high level of support are needed. 3.2 University/College Students The key issues identified were: More affordable and safe housing options. Lower development fees to develop student housing. Need for more co-operation and information sharing between partners (institutions, developers, etc.) It is difficult for students to find housing relative to their short-term (e.g. one semester) vs. long-term (e.g. four years) needs. More options are needed both for student housing and private market rental shared and not shared living arrangements. This could include purpose built graduate and family housing; detached, semi-detached houses and townhouses; studio apartments; and student housing complexes with various numbers of bedrooms and shared space all close to transit. Many students commute to campus because of the high cost of living away from home. However, long commutes can negatively impact academic success. Those who do commute could benefit from affordable short-term, occasional overnight accommodation. Issues, such as by-law enforcement, health and safety, structural integrity and general upkeep, need to be addressed to ensure that available housing is safe. Safety is of most concern in unlicensed premises. To make new student housing affordable, participants suggested that development charges should be reduced and student rents subsidized or capped across the province. Developers would benefit from information on housing needs, shortages and future enrollment forecasts, which may in turn encourage the construction of 8

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 new student housing. The Region could help engage discussions between post-secondary institutions, municipalities and the development sector to encourage construction of new units and ensure that transit plans are connected with housing needs. Education for both landlords and tenants is required, along with information on rights and responsibilities; housing options/availability; and community services. 3.3 Victims of Domestic Violence The key issues identified were: Need full range of housing options (hostel, shelter, second stage, transitional, rent-geared-to-income and affordable). Need for holistic approach (to deal with the complex issues involved). Waiting time too long for priority rent-geared-to-income (RGI) housing. Rent-geared-to-income (RGI) special priority housing (for victims of domestic violence) can take a year to access, as it is contingent on vacancies occurring. More affordable housing is clearly needed, ideally on transit lines for women to access required services. The lack of affordable housing can force women and their children into illegal basement apartments, and other poor health and safety housing conditions. Single women receiving Ontario Works have the most difficulty finding affordable housing; with so few one bedroom RGI units, even with special priority, they are unlikely to ever secure an affordable unit. Participants expressed concern about the loss of some hostel services for women in Oshawa, and the termination of the provincial second stage housing program. Women and children have insufficient options to meet their needs. Increasingly, women and children experiencing homelessness for economic reasons unrelated to domestic violence are approaching shelters for women fleeing family violence for emergency accommodation. Purpose built and private market housing, transitional housing and hostel services are all required. Provision of affordable housing is not sufficient on its own. While financial viability is very important to help avoid the cycle of violence, other safety and support issues also need to be addressed, including child care and mental 9

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 health. Known difficulties (uprooting children, placing themselves in danger) can deter women from leaving their abuser. The Region can help raise awareness and advocate for government funding. It also needs to ensure that its wait list procedures are sensitive to the needs of the immigrant population and women needing a transfer within social housing because of domestic violence. 3.4 Homelessness The key issues identified were: need for affordable housing need for support services strategies to prevent homelessness implementation of the Durham Housing Plan to effect change The homeless population includes those that lack access to permanent housing. It includes people described as hard to house and the invisible homeless people that move frequently from one person s home to the next. Many people that are homeless also report mental and physical health issues. There is evidence to show that a Housing First policy where vulnerable and at risk households are first given permanent housing (rather than temporary transitional facilities) and then supports after they have their own housing fosters self-reliance and independence. While a desired approach, it is impossible to have a Housing First policy without an available supply of affordable housing. In order to prevent homelessness, affordable, safe, clean bachelor and onebedroom units are required. Success is also dependent on the provision of supports especially before individuals lose hope for a change in their situations. Stakeholders suggested that developers should be required to build affordable housing, and that municipal zoning by-law barriers to the creation of innovative solutions be eliminated. The higher cost of homelessness compared to the cost of providing housing and supports needs to be shared publicly, in order to gain political and community support. The Region should take a leadership role in getting this 10

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 message out and bringing prospective partners to the table to address the issue of insufficient housing for this population. Participants indicated that political and staff commitment to identifying and implementing concrete actions related to the Durham Housing Plan will help address homelessness in Durham Region. 3.5 Youth The key issues identified were: transitional housing affordable housing supports for youth Durham youth unemployment is among the highest in Ontario. The shelter amount of Ontario Works (OW) is insufficient, and some OW caseworker/youth relationships can be challenging. Youth feel they are discriminated against by landlords and easily exploited. Even if youth were aware of their rights, there is no recourse for them against a landlord renting an illegal unit. Poor housing conditions are of concern and can lead to constant moves, creating further instability. Youth need support to learn life skills (including nutrition), complete education, get jobs, etc. Transitional housing with shared accommodation and a private bedroom is needed. Long-term, safe affordable housing is the ultimate goal. Guidance, help navigating the system and appropriate supports, will help ensure lifelong success. Input suggested that government and business need to partner to provide necessary funding and build the required infrastructure. 3.6 Seniors The key issues identified were: Housing for seniors with supports more housing options; senior friendly communities; and aging in place. Options for homeless seniors (due to elder abuse by primary caregiver). 11

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Need for a navigator to assist seniors on how/where to access information about housing and supports. There are gaps in the provision of supports and accessibility renovations required to accommodate aging in place. As seniors age, it becomes progressively more difficult and socially isolating for them to stay in their homes. Participants expressed concern that insufficient options are available even for those with adequate income, as there are few condominium or seniors rental communities. Retirement homes are too costly and the wait list for seniors rent-geared-to-income is more than four years too long for elderly persons to have their affordability/housing issues resolved. There are seniors in Durham who have become homeless due to abuse by family members, inadequate housing, or loss of a spouse and the inability to cope on their own. Emergency housing may not be appropriate for seniors, and male seniors experiencing elder abuse have no emergency shelter options geared to this need. Vacant beds in retirement homes were raised as a potential option for temporary emergency housing. Seniors lack information on how to access services and what options are available to them. Community Care Access Centres do not yet have a navigational component, although one is planned in the future. It would be helpful if seniors had one number to call to identify their problem(s) and get the services they require. The Region can play a leadership role in bringing together community partners to ensure information is readily available and to advocate for necessary supports. Due to the growing seniors population, a focus on seniors housing is essential, particularly for those that cannot afford market housing and find themselves homeless. In addition, a senior-specific housing strategy is needed to ensure that seniors can age in place, receive a continuum of care, and have the assistance they need to navigate the system. 3.7 Non-profit and Co-operative Housing Providers The key issues identified were: Need for board training. Assistance to help tenants retain their housing/get support. 12

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Capital funding and financing options upon mortgage termination. Need for more rent-geared-to-income. Agencies, such as the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association and the Cooperative Housing Federation, as well as local post-secondary institutions are available to provide board training/mentorships. The Region s role should be to act as a broker to get appropriate training delivered locally. Specific training in the area of governance and understanding building condition audits were noted. Provisions of best practices and the development of a toolkit were felt to be means to assist social housing providers in retaining existing rent-geared-toincome tenancies, as those evicted from their properties have so few housing alternatives. As well, there is a need to better link tenants with any necessary support services, especially in the areas of mental health and services for seniors. Concerns were expressed over capital reserve underfunding, the inability to retain operating surpluses for this purpose, and the lack of knowledge on the financial implications of mortgage/operating agreement expiry. A desire was expressed for non-profit housing corporations to be able to access financing to re-invest in existing affordable stock and create new units, as well as to be able to finance green plans and energy retrofit programs. As a result of the long wait list for rent-geared-to-income housing and the Special Priority Policy (where victims of domestic abuse are housed first), many households on the wait list will never get housed and some don t even bother to apply. There is clearly a need for more affordable housing in Durham Region. 3.8 Regional Staff A total of five meetings were held with Regional staff, with representation from the Social Services, Works, Planning and Economic Development and Health departments, as well as the CAO s office, including specific sessions for senior management from the Social Services and Health departments and Regional staff responsible for property and asset management of the DRLHC portfolio. The majority of issues raised were also identified both in the community consultations and online survey. The key issues identified were: 13

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 need for new affordable housing revitalization of affordable/social housing need for supportive/accessible Housing access to services sustainability The low vacancy rate has a negative effect on vulnerable populations who are least likely to get housed. New higher density development is required strategically located close to transit. Demand for affordable housing is created due to insufficient incomes. A national housing strategy and more funding, both to create housing and to increase shelter allowances, are required. Staff suggested that the current housing stock needs to be maintained and retained, while new partnerships need to be established that recognize and support the need for more housing. Capital programs are needed to both maintain and create units. Staff perception is that the development industry is not interested in providing affordable housing stock land costs in Durham encourage low-density housing. Accessory apartments and other innovative housing solutions are seen as an approach to solving the problem. However, municipal regulation and costs can be prohibitive. Provincial changes to the definition of Affordable Housing are necessary and requiring a percentage of all new development to be affordable should be mandatory. Mechanisms are also necessary to combat NIMBY-ism. It was suggested that the Region should develop affordable housing through the Durham Regional Local Housing Corporation (DRLHC). Staff acknowledged the need for development charges to offset the cost of infrastructure. Although there was some discussion about the benefits of lowering development charges for affordable housing, it was acknowledged that the cost of related Regional infrastructure was the same. The need for supportive/accessible housing is not being met particularly for youth, those with mental health issues, and those with physical disabilities. More support is required for landlord/tenant issues, and to help stabilize tenancies and assistance is required to help residents navigate the system. There is also the sense that the only way to access rent-geared-to-income (RGI) housing is through the Special Priority Policy, leaving others unable to secure RGI housing. 14

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) indicated that there is no specific means to follow up to ensure that support services are being provided which could prevent repeat calls an overall cost savings to the system. As well, studies show that the provision of mental health supports reduces the need for (expensive) crisis intervention. Many of the human services delivered by the Region have associated wait lists. While much is being done within the Social Services Department to break down barriers in the delivery of human services, it was felt that further innovation could be achieved. In particular, the no wrong door system used in Children s Services could be further extended throughout the Social Services Department. Navigation of the system is also important, especially for the most vulnerable. Unfortunately, provincial funding does not currently recognize this need. However, there is potential to use Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative funding for this purpose. As well, key Social Services staff could meet regularly to prioritize and find help/solutions for the most difficult cases (case conferencing). A suggestion was made to develop a toolkit for new residents to social housing to provide information on local urgent care facilities, clinics, pharmacies, etc. as a means to reduce unnecessary use of EMS. It was also felt that research in the area of how clients use Regional human services, and what barriers they encounter, would be helpful to making further improvements to client service. Energy efficiency helps with long-term financial viability of housing affordability. Staff noted that Regional Council has received the Durham Region Roundtable on Climate Change s Community Climate Change Local Action Plan (2012), which supports the further evaluation of the various program options to facilitate development of future recommendations for adoption and action. Although these programs have no formal status or detailed business plans at this time, three of the proposed initiatives for further evaluation are housingrelated, including: comprehensive residential retrofit; green affordable housing; and Durham Green Building Guidelines. Under the Green Energy Act a new energy conservation policy paper has just been released. The MUSH (Municipalities, Universities, Schools and Hospitals) sector must have plans in place by June 2014 on how it will save energy. Current figures on energy consumption have already been submitted. 15

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Any green energy initiatives in the affordable housing portfolio could be included in this plan. The provincial saveonenergy Home Assistance Program is being promoted in the Durham Regional Local Housing Corporation (DRLHC) to provide new appliances to low-income households that pay for their own utilities. This and other energy conservation programs through local utility companies could be further promoted in DRLHC and extended to other social housing stock. 3.9 Aboriginal People The key issues identified by participants in the aboriginal consultations were: access to affordable (both rental and home ownership) housing access to support services development of Aboriginal housing Issues identified were similar to those of the general population with the exception of: negative community perceptions about Aboriginal culture, the need for property managers to be sensitive to/respect Aboriginal values and culture, and the desire for a native Friendship Centre that would help orient Aboriginal people moving into Durham from rural and remote northern communities. Focus group participants noted a lack of affordable housing options, both with and without support services, and community prejudice make accessing affordable housing difficult. As well, support is needed for Aboriginal residents to retain rental housing: better communication sensitive to Aboriginal culture, information on rights and responsibilities, a tenant advocate to assist Aboriginal people to resolve issues, and enforcement of by-laws to ensure properties are maintained to municipal standards. Housing specific to Aboriginal people has not been developed in Durham Region in part because of a lack of knowledge of available prior federal/provincial program funding. More direct communication with Housing Services at the Region would assist the Aboriginal community to take advantage of any future funding opportunities. 16

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 3.10 Regional and Area Municipal Planning Staff The key issues identified by regional and area municipal planning staff were: resources and tools to create affordable housing accessibility within existing stock Developers ultimately determine what gets built based on what they feel is marketable/profit making. Typically they gravitate to the minimum density available within the allowable range. As well, political decisions may not be in keeping with higher/more affordable densities. Builders need incentives to create housing identified as needed by the community if it isn t otherwise getting built. Currently, all incentives are at the cost of the municipality (e.g. property tax base). Planning staff suggested that the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) needs to advocate to the Province to create tools and the planning environment for affordable housing to get built, including but not limited to the potential for a separate tax class. Intensification policies should ultimately lead to a wider diversity of housing forms, but this will take time and political will. The community needs education on the benefits of higher densities, intensification, brownfield redevelopment, etc. and elected officials need the tools to counter NIMBY-ism. Current Section 37 bonusing provisions do not work in Durham as developers are not looking to create higher densities. The definition of Affordable [Housing] in the Provincial Policy Statement needs to be expanded to address households with the greatest need, and municipalities should be allowed to use inclusionary zoning (where a percentage of new development must include affordable housing). The use of incentives through Community Improvement Plans, in conjunction with the Regional Revitalization Program, should be further utilized as a potential means of creating affordable housing. While there are no restrictions on the number of individuals in a unit, planning does regulate the number of self-contained units. Secondary suites (accessory apartments) are an affordable option, although they can be problematic. Uxbridge discourages them in rural areas because of concerns over septic system capacity, and the fact that second suites can take 17

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 capacity away from new development. They are allowed in two specified areas close to downtown/transit. Whitby allows secondary suites, but not in townhouses because of parking issues. In Oshawa, the matter is currently under review with public consultations planned. Ajax requires two parking spaces for the primary owner and one for the secondary unit. Separate access is not required as long as windows allow for emergency escape. It would be helpful for all municipalities to look at best practices and learn from other municipalities' experiences. Building officials and municipal by-law enforcement are most knowledgeable about what the barriers are to creating secondary units it would be helpful to get their input. The cancellation of the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program accessibility funding and its replacement with Ontario tax credits disadvantages those on low income who can t raise funds for necessary renovations, which are often required to enable aging in place. Revisions to the Ontario Building Code concerning accessibility will only apply to multiresidential properties and owners will have until 2025 to make modifications. The need for accessible units is not being addressed in a cost effective or timely manner. 4. ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS Overall, there were 377 responses to the Durham Region Housing Survey Your Voice Counts. The majority of respondents characterized themselves as a family household (68 per cent) and as homeowners (72 per cent) 2. Further information on who responded to the survey, as well as a question by, question analysis of the survey responses is provided in Appendix 2 to this background report. Three findings stand out from the survey data which corroborate the findings arising from the workshops and focus group discussions. 1. Housing affordability and lack of supply of affordable housing were identified as the top one and two most pressing issues. 2. The need for effective and enabling planning tools. 2 Refer to table 1.1 in Appendix 2. 18

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 3. More and better access to supportive housing and support services. There was an understanding among some respondents about the link between affordable housing, economic sustainability and healthy and complete, sustainable communities. While actual provision of affordable housing is critical to Durham residents, it was also recognized that higher incomes would make more and better housing options available to those in need. Reduction in poverty through job creation, increasing minimum wage and increasing social assistance rates was suggested as key to a successful housing plan. 4.1 Lack of Affordable Housing Supply and Housing Affordability Affordable housing dominated the feedback received by survey respondents. The need for more affordable housing for all types of households was identified as the top-priority housing issue 3. Increased housing supply and safer affordable and rent-geared-to-income rental housing is needed for distinct populations, including households with low and moderate income, seniors, students, youth, victims of domestic violence, people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness. As well, it was noted that Durham has an inadequate supply of affordable ownership housing options that are suitable for a full range of households, including seniors and other residents in both rural and urban areas seeking to downsize their housing. Respondents were also concerned with: Safe housing: low-cost housing stock is not maintained to current standards and needs to be upgraded, and more needs to be done regarding the enforcement of property standards. Several landlords responding to the survey noted that there is no incentive for landlords to improve their units. Cost of housing: there was concern about the high cost of utilities, property taxes, and water and sewage rates from homeowners, landlords and business owners. Developers and landlords who responded to the survey noted in particular high development charges as an impediment to building affordable housing. Repairs and renovation costs: there is not enough financial support to homeowners, in particular seniors and people with disabilities, for repairs to 3 Refer to table 6.1 in Appendix 2 for survey responses to the three highest priority housing issues. 19

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 existing homes to make them physically accessible and energy efficient. Also, some landlords indicated they could not afford to properly maintain and repair their units and required financial assistance to help defray these costs. Suggested solutions to the issues put forth by respondents were: Create more rental housing stock through greater financial investment in affordable and rent-geared-to-income (RGI) housing by all levels of government, and offer incentives to developers to produce housing that is representative of the population, such as: expedited approval of affordable housing developments reduced development charges for affordable housing More diverse affordable ownership and rental housing options, including housing for seniors and people with disabilities. Higher household incomes though increased economic or job opportunities and increases to Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Plan (ODSP) payments and to minimum wage. Providing affordable housing, including rent-geared-to-income (RGI) housing is not enough for certain populations; more disposable income or financial resources are required to provide for a basic standard of living. Existing housing can be made more affordable through: affordable utilities including the provision of energy retrofit funding and tax breaks for energy conservation; lower property taxes; rent assistance/rgi; and financial assistance for renovations for both homeowners and landlords. Regional role in addressing the issues was seen as providing leadership and funding including: incentives for affordable housing development; provision of serviced land; and reduced development fees for developers and non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. The Region should also be a strong advocate for greater funding and securing affordable housing, raising public awareness and engaging public support. 4.2 Effective and Enabling Planning Tools The need for effective and enabling planning policies or tools ranked as the second most pressing issue among survey respondents. 20

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Survey results revealed that Durham residents want diverse, healthy and complete, sustainable communities and planning policies are seen as the tools to achieve them. Planning efforts need to continue to focus heavily on building diverse communities offering a range of housing options and creating more choice. Essentially, consultation results indicated a need for: building communities with safety measures to promote health and with access to an appropriate mix of housing, schools, shopping and transit; creating higher density neighbourhoods; and enabling energy efficiency. Some common perceptions and concerns included: Location: communities should be planned around transit nodes and encourage active transportation so as not to limit the mobility of low income residents; and the location of affordable and rent-geared-to-income (RGI) housing often lacks proximity or easy access to public transit. It was noted that low income and seniors housing should not be isolated seniors from the larger community. Concentrated locations of social housing and poverty are to be avoided and income integration across communities promoted. Density: shift from low-density housing to mixed-use and higher-density development should be encouraged. Densities should continue to be increased, specifically in urban growth areas and in designated regional and local centres. The location of higher density housing should continue to be encouraged in proximity to public transportation. A number of respondents focused on the need for better transit. Enabling policies: there is a desire for enabling policies that encourage mixed density and tenure in neighbourhoods. Samples noted include: facilitating secondary suites (e.g. basement apartments); encouraging community-based housing models (e.g. shared accommodations); and requiring all new developments to have a percentage of affordable housing and mixed densities. A need was also expressed for policies that encourage energy efficiency. Several respondents from north Durham noted it was too onerous to sever land in low density areas to create additional housing in small farming communities. Further, more building permits should be issued for properties on septic systems. 21

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Natural environment: developers need to work with the natural landscape and natural tree canopies when developing housing. Growth management should ensure that urban development is contained, farm land protected, and more green space incorporated into urban planning. Suggested solutions included: Implementation of the smart growth philosophy, so all sectors of society have appropriate living space affordable to their income bracket. Respondents noted that this includes changing zoning to allow for more apartment blocks or townhouses on transit lines and close to main streets with associated amenities. Building up and not out, incorporating more green space into developments. Planning for long-term, sustainable, walkable communities where a car is not necessary to get everywhere, as well as for communities with smaller less expensive homes that can house various types of families and individuals at different stages of their lives (e.g. starter homes; seniors/empty nesters downsizing). A more permissive regulatory environment in north Durham to enable secondary suites, different tenures and increased densities. Regional role in addressing the issues should include leadership and consensus building for mixed density housing and having a planning process that requires higher density especially along arterial roads with transit. Affordable, accessible housing should be an integral part of development. The Region has a responsibility for good urban planning and stewardship of farmlands and environmentally sensitive areas and needs to invest in infrastructure including construction of new affordable housing. The Region also has a role in educating the public about the benefits of higher density housing and the consequences of not building sustainable communities. 4.3 More and Better Access to Support Services and Supportive Housing The need for support services emerged as the third top issue by survey respondents. 22

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Supportive housing generally refers to a combination of housing and services intended as a cost-effective way to help people live more stable, productive lives. It has been demonstrated that supportive housing works very well for people who face the most complex challenges very low incomes and/or persistent issues such as addictions, mental illness, physical disabilities and abuse. Respondents to the online survey championed the need for more supportive housing and support services. Support services were ranked as high to very high priority by 70 per cent of survey respondents with only 12 per cent as low to no priority 4. Frequent stated areas of concern were: More supportive housing options for distinct and vulnerable populations 5 including: supportive housing for seniors (48%) appropriate housing for youth living on own (45%) supportive housing for people with mental illness (43%) housing for people who are homeless (41%) and measures to prevent homelessness for low-income tenants (46%) need for measures to prevent homelessness for low-income homeowners (39%) supportive housing for people with developmental disabilities (33%) not enough supportive housing for the people with physical disabilities (31%) supportive housing for people with addictions (29%) More and improved access to support services: along with more supportive housing there needs to be: Improved access to information about what services are available and how to access them. Better co-ordination of housing and support services and assistance with navigating the social service system. More services to support seniors to age in place and others who wish to remain in their homes and maintain their independence; more and better paid Personal Support Care Workers (PSWs). More on-site supports for tenants with mental health and addiction issues. 4 Refer to table 4.1 in Appendix 2. 5 Refer to table 5.1 in Appendix 2. 23

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Financial supports: financial aid for seniors living in their homes or in retirement communities; financial aid for assistance with disability modifications; funding for first and last month s rent; and more rent-geared-toincome (RGI) housing. Suggested solutions to address the issues included: Increase awareness of available services. More co-ordinated delivery of services agencies need to work together better. Allocate more financial and human resources to meet supportive housing needs; more community based mental health workers and PSWs. Advocate for more provincial and federal funding for affordable and rentgeared-to-income (RGI) supportive housing. The health sector needs to reconsider its way of offering services so the neediest are the first served. Regional role in addressing the issue is to include: Active communication of available services. The provision of funding, programs and supports for vulnerable populations; and taking a leadership role in seniors' programming. Consulting with other divisions internally to more effectively support clients. Advocate for: more funding for supportive housing; improved services for people in need; financial assistance to homeowners for accessibility modifications; and higher minimum wage and social assistance rates. 4.4 Regional Focus during the next 10 Years Several survey questions were aimed at determining what the Region could do to promote healthy and complete, sustainable communities, the role of the Region in housing and what actions the Region should take during the next 10 years to ensure responsible management of housing and meet the needs of its current and future residents. Promote Healthy and Complete, Sustainable Communities: the top three suggested actions 6 by survey respondents were: 6 Refer to table 12.1 in Appendix 2 24

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Effective planning (31%) This was described as building higher density neighbourhoods; building communities with access to an appropriate mix of housing, schools, shopping, etc.; providing more green space; including safety measures that promote health; and providing enabling planning tools to support affordable housing development. More affordable housing (17%) With a focus on: building more affordable housing; encouraging better, more affordable housing options; providing financial assistance; and promoting energy efficiency. Promoting more jobs (10%) A wide range of jobs should be available for all those able and wanting to work in the region. Role of the Region: the top three suggested actions 7 by survey respondents were: Planning (28%) - Encourage higher density development (including more condominiums); growth management to prevent urban sprawl ; provide environmentally healthy green space; create safe, sustainable communities taking into account public transit; and enable innovative housing options. Advocacy and leadership (21%) - Demonstrate leadership to municipalities, developers and other partners in housing; work cooperatively with all levels of government; and advocate for additional housing and support service funding and higher social assistance and minimum wage rates. Increase the supply of affordable and subsidized housing (21%) - Focus on: building effective partnerships to increase housing supply; provide more rent-geared-to-income (RGI) subsidies; and financially invest in affordable housing. 10-Year Regional Action Plan: suggested actions for the Region to undertake were: Make housing a priority. Increase the supply of affordable housing. Plan for diverse and sustainable communities. Collaborate with partners and stakeholders to create more housing. 7 Refer to table 13.1 in Appendix 2. 25

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Create an enabling environment that encourages more and innovative housing solutions. Provide responsible stewardship. 5. SUMMARY OF KEY MESSAGES The majority of respondents ranked housing affordability, rental housing, support services and planning as top issues to be addressed by the Region in the Durham Housing Plan. Lack of affordable housing and housing affordability was the top priority issue identified through the community workshops and online survey. There were requests for greater financial investment by all levels of government to increase the supply of affordable housing. Consultation participants advocated for more choice and more affordable housing options for all populations. Diverse, integrated communities were also identified as a top priority supported by a shift away from low-density housing to mixed density communities and higher density housing within central areas and adjacent to key transportation corridors. Durham requires an enabling regulatory framework that encourages a mix of housing tenure and innovative housing solutions (e.g. secondary suites, shared accommodation, etc.). There is a need for more supportive housing options for seniors, people with disabilities (physical, mental and developmental), victims of domestic violence, youth and people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Aging in place as a policy is not working as effectively as it could be. More services are required to support seniors and others who wish to remain in their homes and to maintain their independence. Consistent with this approach, there needs to be improved access to information about what services are available and how to access them. There was a common view that a systems navigator function supported by a no wrong door approach was critical to helping residents access the services they require in a timely manner. Homeowners and renters identified a need for relief from high energy costs and the reinstatement of programs to assist with repairs. 26

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 The Region s planning efforts should continue to support and defend higher density development (including more condominiums); growth management, including intensification targets consistent with the Provincial Growth Plan (to prevent urban sprawl ); protecting and enhancing environmentally sustainable green space; creating safe, sustainable communities with an emphasis on access to transit and active transportation; and enabling innovative housing options. The input suggested that the Region should be a leader in housing showing leadership to municipalities and developers and working cooperatively with all levels of government. The Region needs to advocate for additional federal/provincial investments in housing, more rent subsidies and higher social assistance rates, and make housing a Regional government priority. 27

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 6. GLOSSARY Aboriginal people: refers to those persons who reported identifying with at least one Aboriginal group, e.g. North American Indian, Métis or Inuit, and/or those who reported being a Treaty Indian or a Registered Indian, as defined by the Indian Act of Canada and/or those who reported they were members of an Indian Band or First Nation (Statistics Canada Census). Affordable housing: means: a) In the case of ownership housing, the least expensive of: i. Housing for which the purchase price results in annual accommodation costs do not exceed 30 per cent of gross annual household income for low and moderate income households. ii. Housing for which the purchase price is at least 10 per cent below the average purchase price of a resale unit in the region. b) In the case of rental housing, the least expensive of: i. A unit for which the rent does not exceed 30 per cent of gross annual household income for low and moderate income households. ii. A unit for which the rent is at or below the average market rent of a unit in the region (Durham Regional Official Plan). Affordability issue/problem: refers to households spending over 30 per cent of their household income on housing (i.e. moderate affordability issue/problem: 30 per cent to 49 per cent; severe affordability issue/problem: 50 per cent to 69 per cent; very severe affordability issue/problem: 70 per cent or more). Brownfield site: refers to undeveloped or previously developed property that may be contaminated. They are usually, but not exclusively, former industrial or commercial properties that may be underutilized, derelict or vacant (Durham Regional Official Plan). Empty nesters: refers to a household wherein the couple or lone parent has experienced the departure of their adult child(ren) from the family home or nest. Family households: refers to either a one family household consisting of a single family household (e.g. a couple with or without children or a lone-parent family), or a multiple family household consisting of two or more families occupying the same dwelling (Statistics Canada Census). 28

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Healthy and Complete, Sustainable Communities: means communities where: a) People s needs for daily living are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs by providing convenient access to an appropriate mix of jobs, local services, a full range of housing (including affordable housing), schools, recreation, open space, and community infrastructure and alternative transportation options through transitsupportive development. b) There is an appropriate ratio of population to jobs. c) Decisions are based on integrating social, economic and environmental considerations. d) People can live, work and play in a safe, vibrant, healthy and prosperous environment (Durham Regional Official Plan). High-density housing: includes all high rise apartments and any dwelling units, attached to other dwelling units or other non-residential space, not already included in the definitions below for low and medium density households. Housing costs: refers to the allocation of average monthly household income, which is spent on the owner s major payments (including mortgage, heating, municipal services, property taxes and condominium fees, where applicable) or on gross rent (including rent, heating and municipal services). Housing First: is a policy where vulnerable and at risk households are first given permanent housing (rather than temporary transitional facilities) and then support services. Intensification: means the development of a property, site or area at a higher density than currently exists through: a) Redevelopment, including the reuse of brownfield sites. b) The development of vacant and/or underutilized lots within previously developed areas. c) Infill development. d) The expansion or conversion of existing buildings (Durham Regional Official Plan). Lone parent: refers to a mother or a father, with no spouse or common law partner present, living in a dwelling with one or more children (Statistics Canada Census). 29

Durham Housing Review Background Report No. 5 Low and moderate income [households]: means: a) In the case of ownership housing, households with incomes in the lowest 60 per cent of the income distribution for the region. b) In the case of rental housing, households with incomes in the lowest 60 per cent of income of the income distribution for renter households for the region (Durham Regional Official Plan). Low-density housing: includes all single and semi-detached homes, as well as other detached homes, as defined by Statistics Canada (Statistics Canada Census). Medium-density units: includes all townhomes and apartments in duplexes. NIMBY: means not in my backyard where residents oppose development of housing in their neighbourhood (usually high density or affordable), as they believe it will adversely impact their property values. North Durham: as it relates to Durham s area municipalities, refers to the northern townships of Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock. Social housing: or non-profit and co-operative housing, refers to affordable housing owned and managed by both municipal government and community based organizations, which was developed with government subsidies and typically receives ongoing subsidies to operate. It provides housing mostly for people whose income, age, social needs or health prevent them from finding adequate housing in the private rental market. Specialized housing: is an umbrella term for housing, which includes social housing and special needs housing. Supportive housing: refers to housing that is integrated with support services (often on site) to meet the needs of individuals who require specific services to maintain their well-being and housing. 30

APPENDICES

Appendix 1: ONLINE SURVEY Your Voice Counts! The Region of Durham is developing a comprehensive 10-year Durham Housing Plan that will provide a single vision to address housing issues in Durham. We are asking Durham residents and people with an interest in housing issues in Durham Region to provide input into the development of our Housing Plan. The purpose of this survey is to get feedback on the housing needs and services, gaps and barriers in the current housing system in Durham Region. Instructions This survey will take about 15 minutes to complete. It can be printed and returned until August 23, 2013 to the: Housing Services Division Social Services Department Regional Headquarters 1 st Floor 605 Rossland Rd. E. P.O. Box 623 Whitby, ON L1N 6A3 If this information is required in an accessible format, please contact 1-800-372-1102 ext. 2500.

1. WHAT IS YOUR INTEREST IN HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS SERVICES IN DURHAM? I AM A: (check any that apply) Resident of Durham Region who is a Single person Family Post-secondary student Youth Homeowner Senior Aboriginal person Other please specify: Tenant living in a private rental building Tenant or co-op member receiving assistance to pay rent or housing charge Applicant on the waiting list for subsidized housing Someone who has experienced homelessness or who is at risk of becoming homeless Someone who has trouble finding and keeping housing Someone who has a disability Mental Physical Developmental Addiction Staff of a community agency that provides support services Domestic violence sector Emergency hostel sector Health care sector Mental health sector Other: Private landlord Non-profit social housing provider Non-profit co-operative social housing provider Housing developer Business owner who is concerned about the community Educator Municipal sector Municipality: Elected official Housing staff Planning staff Police EMS Other: Other, please specify:

2. WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT HOUSING AFFORDABILITY: Approximately 26% of owners and tenants in Durham have an affordability problem. A much greater share of tenants struggle with housing affordability as their income is about half of owner income. Lone parent families, Aboriginal persons and people experiencing physical difficulties have considerably lower income than other types of households. About 45% of lone parent families and single people spend 30% or more of their household income on housing costs. Low income people have inadequate access to the necessary financial resources to find and keep their housing possibly owing to low social assistance and minimum wage rates, temporary or seasonal employment or lack of medical benefits. There is a lack of affordable housing options for low income people, in particular for non-senior single people and those requiring support services to maintain their tenancies. HOW MUCH OF A PRIORITY DO YOU THINK HOUSING AFFORDABILITY ISSUES SHOULD BE GIVEN IN THE DURHAM HOUSING PLAN? 1 2 3 4 5 No Priority Very High Priority Comments: 3. WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT RENTAL HOUSING: In 2006 almost 18% of households in Durham were tenants. Roughly 30% of the rental supply in Durham is in social housing. Only about 12% of social housing units are suitable for single non-senior people and less than 3% is suitable for larger families.

Between 2000 and 2009 rental housing represented less than 1% of new housing units built in Durham. The majority (63.5%) of rental dwellings were built prior to 1980, with 20% identified as in need of major (10%) and minor (10%) repair. Rental vacancy rates declined from 2006 to 2012 from 3.91% to 2.1% which significantly impacts the availability of rental housing. There are almost 5,000 applicants on the waiting list for social housing in Durham and wait times have increased steadily over the last six years. HOW MUCH OF A PRIORITY DO YOU THINK RENTAL HOUSING ISSUES SHOULD BE GIVEN IN THE DURHAM HOUSING PLAN? 1 2 3 4 5 No Priority Very High Priority Comments: 4. WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT SUPPORT SERVICES: Single non-senior people are most likely to need emergency accommodation and to access homeless support services. Eviction prevention programs for people at risk of homelessness are substantially more successful than supports to find accommodation for people who have become homeless. Social service agencies and people who have experience with homelessness indicate that there are not enough services across the region to provide supports to low income people to assist them to maintain their current tenancies and connect with agency supports. The current level of health and treatment services does not meet the needs of low income people who are struggling with mental health and/or addiction issues or who do not have health care coverage for their medical needs. Seniors face challenges in accessing supports in their own homes that will allow them to age in place.

HOW MUCH OF A PRIORITY SO YOU THINK SUPPORT SERVICES ISSUES SHOULD BE GIVEN IN THE DURHAM HOUSING PLAN? 1 2 3 4 5 No Priority Very High Priority Comments: 5. WHAT ARE THE HOUSING ISSUES THAT CONCERN YOU? Please check all the boxes that apply to you or the clients that you serve. Finding affordable rental housing in my community Need for financial assistance to afford rent Heat and/or hydro is too expensive Necessary home repairs are too costly Difficultly maintaining the condition of present home Need for accommodation that is physically accessible Need for financial help to make my home physically accessible (e.g. stairs are a challenge) Landlord/ tenant issues Supportive housing for the physically disabled Supportive housing for people with mental illness Supportive housing for people with developmental disabilities Supportive housing for people with addictions Supportive housing for seniors Housing for people who are homeless Appropriate housing for youth who are living on their own Difficulty accessing support services that will help me stay where I live Need for measures to prevent homelessness for low income tenants Need for measures to prevent homelessness for low income homeowners Conflicting information about housing and support service options Do not know where and how to access information about housing options and support services Lack of serviced lands to develop more housing Development approval process takes too long Cost of developing new rental housing too high Building standards too onerous Other, please specify:

6. WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE THREE (3) MOST PRESSING HOUSING ISSUES IN DURHAM REGION? HOUSING ISSUE 1 What do you think caused this issue to arise? What is preventing the issue from being resolved? What can be done to fix the issue? What is the role of the Region in resolving the issue? HOUSING ISSUE 2 What do you think caused this issue to arise? What is preventing the issue from being resolved?

What can be done to fix the issue? What is the role of the Region in resolving the issue? HOUSING ISSUE 3 What do you think caused this issue to arise? What is preventing the issue from being resolved? What can be done to fix the issue? What is the role of the Region in resolving the issue? 7. WHAT DO YOU OR YOUR CLIENTS NEED IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN YOUR/THEIR HOUSING?

8. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO HELP PEOPLE WITH THEIR HOUSING ISSUES WITHIN DURHAM REGION? 9. WHAT SUGGESTIONS DO YOU HAVE TO IMPROVE THE HOUSING SYSTEM? E.g. co-ordinated delivery of housing and services, new planning tools, green technologies, innovative financing, more housing options, single access number for all housing issues, etc. 10. DESCRIBE THE TYPES OF HOUSING OPTIONS WE NEED IN DURHAM. E.g. affordable homeownership, senior supportive, subsidized rental housing, etc. 11. DESCRIBE ANY COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS THAT ARE CURRENTLY WORKING WELL TO ASSIST PEOPLE TO FIND AND KEEP HOUSING THAT IS APPROPRIATE TO THEIR NEEDS.

12. HEALTHY AND COMPLETE, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES meet people s needs for daily living without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. HEALTHY AND COMPLETE, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES have convenient access to an appropriate mix of jobs, local services, a full range of housing (including affordable housing), schools, recreation, open space, and community infrastructure and alternative transportation options through transit-supportive development. WHAT SHOULD THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM DO OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS TO PROMOTE HEALTHY AND COMPLETE, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES? List In order of priority: 1. 2. 3. 13. WHAT SHOULD THE ROLE OF THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM BE IN HOUSING OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS? 14. WHAT ACTIONS SHOULD THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM TAKE OVER THE NEXT 10 YEARS TO ENSURE RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT OF OUR HOUSING SUPPLY AND TO MEET THE NEEDS OF OUR CURRENT AND FUTURE RESIDENTS?

15. DO YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER COMMENTS? 16. YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION (Optional): Name: Organization: E-mail: Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey. Your input into developing the Durham Housing Plan is highly valued and will remain confidential. Please refer back to this website for updates about the Durham Region Housing Plan.

Survey results are provided by question. Appendix 2: ONLINE SURVEY RESULTS Overall, there were 377 responses to the Durham Region Housing Survey, although not all respondents answered each of the 14 questions. Question 1: Characteristics of Survey Respondents Table 1.1 provides a summary of responses pertaining to the characteristics of respondents who completed the survey. 8 Category Table 1.1: Respondent Characteristics # of Respondents Families 68 Singles 23 Homeowners 72 (85% family; 15% single) Tenants 17 (39% family; 35% single; 26% students & youth; 2% RGI) Homeless or at risk of homelessness 4 (25% families; 75% singles - 58% renters and 42% self-declared as homeless) Private landlords 7 Other private sector business 2 Education sector 8 Students and youth 9 Persons with disabilities 13 (67% families - 72% owners, 22% renters, 6% did not declare; 33% singles - 55% renters, 13% owners, 37% did not declare) Support service agency 32 employee Municipal sector 45 8 A respondent was able to identify more than one category A2-i

Table 1.2 indicates the distribution of 169 responses received from municipal sector (e.g. staff, elected officials) according to area municipality. Table 1.2: Distribution of Municipal Sector Respondents Location # % Durham 133 79 Ajax 1 1 Brock 0 0 Clarington 3 2 Oshawa 9 5 Pickering 2 1 Scugog 2 1 Uxbridge 2 1 Whitby 5 3 Not specified 12 7 As noted in the above table, 79 per cent were affiliated with the Region of Durham and the remainder quite evenly spread among area municipalities. Of the Region of Durham affiliates, the highest identified percent came from the Housing Services Division (11%) as noted in the table below. Table 1.3: Distribution of Municipal Sector Respondents by Area of Work Respondents # % Elected official 3 2 Housing staff 19 11 Planning staff 7 4 Police 2 1 EMS 0 0 Not specified 45 27 Other: Administration, Children s Services, Council Services, Education, Finance Department, Health, Income Support, Operations, Policy, Social Services, Summer student, Water, Works Department, etc. 93 55 A2-ii

Question 2: How much of a priority do you think housing affordability issues should be given in the Durham Housing Plan? There were 357 (95%) respondents. The following table provides a summary of the priority ranking for housing affordability: Table 2.1: Affordability Priority Ranking Housing Affordability # % 1- no priority 16 5 2 28 8 3 48 13 4 92 26 5 - very high priority 173 48 Total 357 100 Housing affordability as an issue for the Durham Housing Plan was ranked as high to very high priority by 74 per cent of respondents. Further comments included: housing is an important determinant of health; the cost of housing is out of reach for low and middle income families; some must choose between paying rent and other necessities such as food; and violence and poverty are the main causes of homelessness for women and families. Question 3: How much of a priority do you think rental housing issues should be given in the Durham Housing Plan? There were 352 (93%) respondents. Table 3.1 below provides a summary of the priority ranking for rental housing issues. Table 3.1: Rental Housing Priority Ranking Rental Housing Issues # % 1- no priority 15 4 2 33 9 3 54 16 4 101 29 5 - very high priority 149 42 Total 352 100 About 71 per cent of respondents felt that rental housing issues should be given high to very high priority for the Durham Housing Plan. Of these, 71 per cent were A2-iii

homeowners and 29 per cent were renters. Only 13 per cent ranked this as a low to no priority issue. Comments included: market rents are unaffordable for low and middle income households; there is a lack of safe and affordable housing; minimum wage, social assistance are inadequate to cover the cost of housing and other necessities of life; landlords may not be willing to rent to SOCIAL ASSISTANCE recipients, youth, single mothers, etc.; and people with no other options are forced to accept unsafe, inadequate, illegal housing. Question 4: How much of a priority do you think support services issues should be given in the Durham Housing Plan? There were 334 (89%) respondents. The following table provides a summary of the priority ranking for support services issues. Table 4.1: Support Services Priority Ranking Support Services Issues # % 1 - no priority 15 5 2 25 7 3 61 18 4 100 30 5 - very high priority 133 40 Total 334 100 Supports services were also ranked as high to very high priority for the Durham Housing Plan by 70 per cent of respondents, with only 12 per cent as low to no priority. Mention was made both of the need for supports and the need for accessibility modifications. Supports were stated as necessary to ensure that women do not return to abusive situations and to keep older people in their homes. A need was expressed for transitional housing for those that cannot acquire and keep housing without additional support (e.g. for adolescent mothers with inadequate life skills). The lack of an emergency family shelter in Durham was noted (for male-led families and for families with male children over the age of 12 years) and the need to review social assistance rules that keep people from access to housing and trapped in poverty. Question 5: What are the housing issues that concern you? The following table provides a frequency ranking of the housing issues identified by 308 (82%) respondents. A2-iv

Table 5.1: Ranking of Housing Issues Identified Housing Issues # % Finding affordable rental housing in my community 188 61 Heat and/or hydro are too expensive 179 58 Supportive housing for seniors 147 48 Need for measures to prevent homelessness for lowincome tenants 141 46 Appropriate housing for youth who are living on their own 139 45 Supportive housing for people with mental illness 131 43 Housing for people who are homeless 126 41 Need for measures to prevent homelessness for lowincome homeowners 119 39 Need for financial assistance to afford rent 118 38 Necessary home repairs are too costly 114 37 Supportive housing for people with developmental disabilities 103 33 Landlord/ tenant issues 97 31 Not enough supportive housing for the physically disabled 96 31 Need for accommodation that is physically accessible 91 30 Difficulty maintaining the condition of present home 88 29 Supportive housing for people with addictions 88 29 Difficulty accessing support services that will help me stay where I live 86 28 Cost of developing new rental housing too high 81 26 Do not know where and how to access information about housing options and support services 69 22 Conflicting information about housing and support service options 61 20 Other 60 19 Need for financial help to make my home physically accessible (e.g. stairs are a challenge) 58 19 Development approval process takes too long 58 19 Lack of serviced lands to develop more housing 53 17 Building standards too onerous 38 12 The greatest number of respondents indicated that Finding affordable housing in my community was of concern to them (61%) followed closely by Heat and/or hydro are too expensive (58%). A2-v

The next most frequently stated areas of concern focused on housing supports and homelessness: Supportive housing for seniors (48%); Appropriate housing for youth living on own (45%); Supportive housing for people with mental illness (43%); Need for measures to prevent homelessness for low-income tenants (46%); Housing for people who are homeless (41%); and Need for measures to prevent homelessness for low-income homeowners (39%); Supportive housing for people with developmental disabilities (33%); Not enough supportive housing for the physically disabled (31%); and Supportive housing for people with addictions (29%). About 38 per cent of respondents were concerned about the Need for financial assistance to afford rent and 31 per cent Landlord/tenant issues. As far as property repairs were concerned, 37 per cent indicated that Necessary home repairs are too costly and 29 per cent had Difficulty maintaining my present home. About 12 per cent indicated that Building standards were too onerous. Some 30 per cent were concerned about A need for accommodation that is physically accessible and 19 per cent had a Need for financial help to make my home physically accessible. Issues about access to information and supports were of concern: Difficulty accessing support services that will help me stay where I live (28%); do not know how to access information about housing and support service options (22%); and conflicting information about housing and support service options (20%). Lastly, in the area of new development it was felt that the cost of developing new rental housing was too high (26%); the development approval process takes too long (19%); and there is a lack of serviced land to develop more housing (17%). Other comments, not previously mentioned included: General: The importance of safe and affordable housing as a determinant of health Lack of sustainable employment opportunities in Durham Lack of co-operation between economic planning departments, building and planning departments and social service providers Need for a continuum of housing and integration at all levels Need for assistance to navigate the system Need a supportive agency to bring landlords and tenants together Need for smoke free housing, pet friendly rentals The need for incentives for landlords to maintain properties/deal with bedbugs Habitat for Humanity is a good solution for affordable home ownership A2-vi

Social Housing: The need for social housing outside of Oshawa The lengthy wait time for RGI More assistance needed from the Region for housing providers to deal with fraud and arrears and to support dealing with eviction of high need tenants Funding models are inflexible and reserve fund contributions locked in Development/Planning Considerations: The need for changes in municipal by-laws to accommodate secondary units, seniors aging in place and persons with disabilities and to allow for student housing Housing by-laws are discriminatory Every neighbourhood should be required to build 20 per cent affordable housing Poor planning and locations for high density housing Property taxes are too high Development charges are too high Walkability and access to transit North Durham issues: Greenbelt Act is a hindrance to development Limited transportation Question 6: What do you feel are the three (3) most pressing housing issues in Durham Region? Respondents were asked to identify the top three most pressing housing issues in Durham, what they felt was required to fix the issue and the role of the Region in addressing the issue. There were 255 (68%) respondents to Question 6, identifying a range of issues. These issues were grouped into broad categories. Examples of the types of responses in each issue category include: Lack of Housing/Housing Affordability Sample issues included: lack of affordable rental housing; rents too high; more subsidized housing; no rental units being built; inadequate supply of rental housing for all; groups affordable homeownership to lesser extent; waiting list too long. A2-vii

Planning/Building Matters Sample issues included: well planned growth for people and environment; urban sprawl; too much high density housing; poor planning regarding rooming houses; cost of development charges; proximity/location/access to transit; culture in building departments not supportive for developers; more housing options for students; self-sufficient communities; bylaws that encourage rather than restrict rental alternatives; sustainability of building and environmental regulations; location of social housing and concentrated areas of poverty; not enough variety; build smaller houses; lack of mixed density housing; NIMBY (not in my backyard); lack of available property for development. Lack of Supports/Accessible Housing Sample issues included: supportive housing for seniors, supportive housing for youth; supportive housing for mental health and addictions; lack of services for people with mental health and addiction issues; support services to all seniors to age in place; no funding for people with disabilities if their spouse works; transitional housing with different levels of support; access to services; accessibility for Ontarians with disabilities; inability to maintain housing with a disability; support services for low income residents; accessibility for people with disabilities; funding to assist with first and last month rent; lack of awareness on what is available and where to get help; financial supports for single, youth and seniors ; access to appropriate services; better co-ordination of housing and support services; wrap around services; social assistance significantly below current market rent. Safe Housing /Housing Maintenance Sample issues included: poor and unsafe rental conditions for low income people; lack of decent places to live; unsafe housing and lack of appropriate by-law enforcement; repairs to existing homes to make them accessible; energy efficiency. Cost to Operate Housing Sample issues included: property taxes; utilities; property maintenance; renovation costs; water and sewage rates. A2-viii

Homelessness Sample issues included: measures to prevent homelessness; affordable housing for homeless; financial aid for those who are homeless; assistance to maintain tenancies; emergency housing; temporary accommodation and services; supportive housing for people with mental illness to prevent homelessness. Landlord/Legal Housing issues Funding Other Sample issues included: landlord accountability; landlord/tenant rights and obligations; disrepair of properties; lack of communication between landlords and tenants; resources for students when dealing with lease/legal housing issues. Sample issues included: to create new stock and rehabilitate existing; incentives for home ownership; lack of financial resources to obtain and sustain housing; incentives to investors. Sample issues included: no vision post mortgage maturity for social housing; discrimination; rent controls discourage housing starts and renovations by landlords; providing surplus government land for housing; quality of workmanship for those who are buying a house compared to price paid; fact that housing is an issue and not a right; stigma associated with social housing; establish partnerships with other providers in other municipalities; working poor and rising unemployment rates; tax consequences that discourage new builds and re-sales, etc.; cost of developing rental housing too high; collaboration, job creation and fair wages, advocacy. Responses were weighted 9 and scored per category. The top three issues were identified by rank according to the number of responses received in each category. 9 Reponses for first priority issue scored three points; responses for second priority issues scored two points; responses for third priority issue scored one point. A2-ix

Table 6.1: Ranking of Top Three Issues Identified by Respondents # Responses Issues Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Score Rank Lack of Housing/Housing Affordability 156 88 43 687 1st Planning/Building Matters 31 39 63 234 2nd Lack of Supports/Supportive Housing 28 34 56 186 3rd Safe housing /Housing maintenance 6 16 13 66 Cost to Operate Housing 12 20 14 96 Homelessness 4 13 5 51 Landlords/Legal Housing Issues 8 12 7 60 Funding 6 3 4 27 Other 4 14 13 54 The following table provides a summary of the percentage of responses received for each issue category. Table 6.2: Percentage of Responses to Top Three Issues Issues % Responses % Respondents Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Identifying Issue Lack of Housing/Housing Affordability 61% 35% 17% 77% Planning/Building Matters 12% 15% 25% 37% Lack of Supports/Supportive Housing 11% 13% 22% 38% Safe housing /Housing maintenance 2% 6% 5% 12% Cost to Operate Housing 5% 8% 5% 5% Homelessness 2% 5% 2% 8% Landlords/Legal Housing Issues 3% 5% 3% 8% Funding 2% 1% 2% 5% Other 2% 5% 5% 11% No Issue Identified 0% 6% 15% -- A2-x

First Priority Issue - Lack of Housing/Housing Affordability Lack of Housing/Housing Affordability is without question the top issue, identified by 77 per cent of the 255 respondents as being one of the top three housing issues and representing 61 per cent of the issues identified as the most pressing. What do you think caused this issue to rise? Stated causes were: Low incomes: Poor economy; lack of job opportunities High unemployment; recession; marriage breakdown; job layoffs; lack of retirement income planning, etc. Economic crisis; lack of good paying jobs Working poor and those on social assistance can t afford Durham housing costs Lack of affordable development: New builds are not meeting increased population demand Developers are not building rental as in decades ago Focus on single family dwelling construction Various levels of government are not committing funds to build more affordable housing; no financial incentives to build High cost of land; onerous approval process High cost of development charges and fees What is preventing the issue from being resolved? Many of the reasons stated for preventing the lack of affordable housing issue from getting resolved were similar to the stated causes (e.g., lack of funding/incentives/barriers/high density and insufficiency of social assistance/low minimum wage/lack of jobs). In addition there was a perceived lack of political/government will as the non-profit sector cannot solve the problem alone. Recognition needs to be given to the fact that investment in people, including the health and safety of our seniors, through funding and social planning should be society s concern and responsibility. Providing appropriate housing and support services will ultimately save money through stabilizing individuals lives, resulting in less cost/pressure on the legal system, jails, addictions, mental health services, hospitals, crisis services, emergency shelters, etc. A2-xi

What is required to fix the issue? The solutions speak to the identified causes: Create more affordable housing options including housing for seniors and those with physical disabilities Build diverse affordable housing in new developments perhaps require developers to build and maintain rental housing Offer incentives to developers to produce housing that is representative of the population and limit their ability to produce housing that is unrepresentative Allow creation of multi-family units Reduce development charges Increase minimum wage Provide adequate senior level government funding What role should the Region have in resolving the issue? The Region s role should be providing: money and leadership including incentives for affordable housing development; serviced land; and reduced development fees for organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. It should also be a strong advocate for funding and securing units, raising public awareness and engaging public support as well as providing education and services. The Region should also take the lead in ensuring that services are distributed equitably across Durham, highlighting where most urgent needs exist and taking measures to rectify them. It was expressed that diverse neighbourhoods in new developments should be a Regional requirement. The Region should encourage and find developers to build apartment units and encourage homeowners to develop second suites by giving them tax breaks for offering affordable rental. A2-xii

Second Priority Issue Planning/Building Matters Planning/Building Matters ranked as the second most pressing issue with 37 per cent of respondents ranking it as one of the top three issues. What do you think caused this issue to rise? Stated causes included: Lack of long term vision Allowing development without considering population density and transit Lack of zoning for other than single family dwellings A history of ghettoizing low income housing and isolating seniors from the larger community Seeing the Region as a homogeneous commuter community and not developing mixed housing types/sizes Not recognizing rural area differences, e.g., why are development charges the same when average house costs are much less? Not enough thought given to a Regional transit plan when municipal routes were merged and inadequate integration with the GO system Developers raze the land instead of working with the natural eco-scapes and natural tree canopies What is preventing the issue from being resolved? Respondents felt that these issues were not getting resolved because of: A lack of public education on Smart Growth and the importance of limiting urban sprawl Inappropriate planning and allocation of resources Not enough focus on transit when building new communities Inadequate planning for mixed developments which include small shops and businesses that people can walk to from their homes Too much zoning dedicated to and land being used for single family dwellings What is required to fix the issue? Respondents stated that the implementation of the Smart Growth philosophy is necessary so that all sectors of society have appropriate living space affordable to their income bracket. Respondents noted that this includes A2-xiii

changing zoning to allow for more apartment blocks or townhouses on transit and close to main streets with associated amenities - building up not out and incorporating more green space into urban planning. It was stated that there is a need to plan for long term sustainable, walkable communities where a car is not necessary to get everywhere, as well as for communities with smaller less expensive homes that can house various types of families at different stages of their lives; e.g. starter homes, seniors/empty nesters downsizing. A suggestion included looking for examples of successful communities (e.g., Boston s redesign) where Durham can learn from their experience. What role should the Region have in resolving the issue? The Region s role should include leadership and consensus building for mixed density housing and having a planning process that requires higher density especially along arterial roads. Affordable, accessible housing should be an integral part of development. It has a responsibility for good urban planning and stewardship of farmlands and environmentally sensitive areas and needs to invest in infrastructure including construction of new affordable housing especially of needed one bedroom RGI units. The Region also has a role to educate the public on the consequences of not building sustainable communities. Third Priority Issue - Lack of Supports/Supportive Housing Lack of Supports/Supportive Housing ranked as the third most pressing issue with 38 per cent of respondents ranking it as one of the top three issues a marginally higher percentage than the second priority issue but representing significantly fewer and lower priority responses. What do you think caused this issue to rise? Stated causes included: People are living longer, experiencing an increase in physical and developmental disabilities, and require appropriate housing with supports to varying degrees. Baby boomers are aging; A2-xiv

Provincial push toward de-institutionalization leaving people with mental illness to live on their own without proper supports, less programs, and fewer group homes. Lack of funding to the developmental services sector. Limited resources for families with special needs children who lack financial resources. Community agencies don't have enough funding to provide needed supports, and it is difficult to find information about services that are available. The health sector has not kept up with the demand for services and long waiting lists have developed. What is preventing the issue from being resolved? Respondents felt that these issues were not getting resolved because of: Government inaction and lack of political will. Federal and provincial governments stopped taking funding responsibility while needs have increased dramatically. Lack of resources financial and staffing. Lack of recognition of the importance of family and community in the health of people. A health care system that creates silos of service makes it difficult for individuals to procure services. What is required to fix the issue? The solutions speak to the identified causes: Acknowledge the problem exists and create a comprehensive report including information solicited from all stakeholders including the front line staff and family members who are close to the situation every day; formulate and implement an action plan. Increase funding for home services and tax rebates for home retrofits to make the environment conducive to aging in place. Repurpose existing buildings and update the building code on new home builds so that measures are put into place to facilitate aging in place. More money needs to be invested to create another short term shelter for Durham and at least one supportive housing building in each municipality. Change the by-laws so community models can be presented to council and development can begin to address housing and health care issues. A2-xv

Provide more community based mental health workers. New buildings must come with a component that includes funding for supports for marginalized tenants. Better communication among the various agencies. Provincial budgets need to be reviewed and more money provided to Ministry funded agencies. Make supportive services more accessible and information pertaining to any and all services easily accessible to the general public. An open case management role where every individual can access one central intake system with a self-referral, to receive support where appropriate, advocacy elsewhere, linkage to other supports, securing financial supports and housing, and assistance allocating doctors, medical tests, and medical documentation might serve people better. Increase awareness; education. What role should the Region have in resolving the issue? The Region s role should be to provide leadership and commitment, to raise public awareness and engage public support. It needs to create a seamless plan that addresses gaps in services, supports groups attempting to address the issues, and give people every possibility to stay in their own communities with their own networks. It needs to work collaboratively with community groups and between Regional Departments (e.g. Health and Social Services) to determine the strategy. The Region needs to advocate for more funding from the federal and provincial governments, but also commit to funding and make it a priority. Question 7: What do you or your clients need to maintain their housing? There were 119 (32%) responses. Key to covering the cost of housing is adequate income including better paying jobs and increased social assistance rates. New affordable housing needs to be built and existing housing can be made more affordable through: affordable utilities; tax breaks for energy conservation; lower property taxes; rent assistance/rgi; and financial assistance for renovations. A2-xvi

Financial assistance for accessibility modifications helps people to be able to stay in their homes, as does easy access to information about and receipt of needed supports. Question 8: What can be done to help people with their housing issues within Durham Region? There were 111 (29%) responses. More affordable housing needs to be built. To encourage this: plan for a variety of housing in all neighbourhoods and parts of the Region; provide innovative financing; reduce government fees and regulation; promote multi-residential development; and streamline the development process. There needs to be more effective communication on the benefits of mixed density housing and of communities providing housing for a range of incomes and household types. There also needs to be transparent, reliable and stable sources of funding for housing programs. Some individuals could benefit from education on budgeting and financing as well as learning about the costs of homeownership and how much income is required. Cheaper utilities and tax breaks would assist with the rising cost of home maintenance. Question 9: What suggestions do you have to improve the housing system? There were 130 (34%) responses. Build more affordable housing and provide more housing options (including secondary suites and Habitat for Humanity) and more mixed developments. Ensure better co-ordination of housing and support services. Provide a complete continuum of housing and supports based on needs identification, outreach and community planning emergency, transitional, and long term supportive housing. Also provide preventative services such as rent banks, food banks and counseling. Make housing information available online. Plan better for the future and for slower growth. Encourage green technologies. A2-xvii

More financial incentives are needed from senior levels of government. Also needed are innovative financing options to allow tenants to own their own homes and partnerships with lending institutions to help the working poor. Question 10: Describe the types of housing options we need in Durham. There were 163 (43%) responses. Once again, higher density affordable housing was identified. For rental: subsidized housing and supportive housing for seniors and those with mental or other disabilities. For homeownership: assistance with down payments and rent-to-own opportunities. Question 11: Describe any community partnerships that are currently working well to assist people find and keep housing that is appropriate to their needs. Some 92 (24%) respondents identified a number of community partnerships. These were: Community Development Council Durham Community Living Cornerstone Durham Housing, Durham Non-Profit Housing Durham Mental Health, CMHA Habitat for Humanity Housing Help Durham Joanne s House John Howard Society Lakeridge Health March of Dimes Muslim Welfare Home North House Nourish and Develop Foundation in Brock Township PACC Pinewood The Youth Centre VAW Shelters in Durham YWCA Durham A2-xviii

Question 12: What should the Regional Municipality of Durham do over the next 10 years to promote healthy and complete, sustainable communities? The following table provides a ranking of the 366 (97%) responses received. Table 12.1: Ranking of Actions to Promote Healthy and Complete, Sustainable Communities Suggested Actions to Promote Healthy and Complete, Sustainable Communities 1 Effective planning Build communities with safety measures to promote health Higher density neighbourhoods Build communities with access to an appropriate mix of housing, schools, shopping, etc. More green space; energy efficiency 2 More affordable housing Financial assistance/financial planning tools Encourage better, more affordable housing options Build more affordable housing 3 Jobs Promote more jobs in Durham; Wide range of jobs for all persons 4 Transportation/transit Better public transit Ensure transportation network is conducive to sustainable communities 5 Housing and support services Health supports for anyone living with physical or mental challenges; Supports to youth Access to local services 6 Financial assistance to residents More rent subsidies Funding for temporary assistance with housing bills for low income/working poor families Stable and reliable funding for first/last month rent for low income 7 Existing housing and maintenance Improve rental supply through enforcement of property standards Improve condition of current units Responses 112 (31%) 64 (17%) 38 (10%) 34 (9%) 21 (6%) 11 (3%) 9 (2%) A2-xix

Suggested Actions to Promote Healthy and Responses Complete, Sustainable Communities 8 Responsible stewardship 7 (2%) Commit money in a responsible and forward thinking manner Monitor the attainment of the goals and revise as appropriate Establish standards and goals to meet objectives 9 Education 7 (2%) Education about services available; Co-op training Provide education opportunity to assist people to get off of social assistance 10 Collaboration/partnerships 6 (2%) Partner with non-profit agencies Work with affordable homeownership groups Continue to work collaboratively with other departments and sectors on the big picture rather than a fragmented approach Increase the rental supply through government and private initiatives 11 Other 57 (16%) Based on the above information, the top three suggested actions were: 1. Effective planning (31%) 2. More affordable housing (17%) 3. Promoting more jobs (10%) Effective planning was described as including: building higher density neighbourhoods; building communities with access to an appropriate mix of housing; schools; shopping, etc.; providing more green space; including safety measures that promote health; and providing planning tools for affordable housing. More affordable housing entailed: building more affordable housing; encouraging better, more affordable housing options; providing financial assistance; and promoting energy efficiency. Promoting more jobs entailed: a wide range of jobs available for all those able/wanting to work in the Region. Other actions (less than 10 per cent each) in order of ranking included: ensuring transportation is conducive to sustainable communities; providing housing supports and information; providing financial assistance with rent and other housing costs; A2-xx

improving supply through enforcement of property standards; partnering with other departments/sectors; educating; fund in a forward thinking manner; and establish goals, monitor and revise as necessary. Question 13: What should the role of the Regional Municipality of Durham be in housing over the next 10 years? There were 84 (22%) responses. The table below categorizes the responses. The top three suggested actions roles were: 1. Planning (28%) 2. Taking on a stronger advocacy and leadership role (21%) 3. Increasing the supply of affordable and subsidized housing (21%) Table 13.1: Ranking of the Suggested Roles for the Region Suggested Roles for the Region 1 Planning Creating small clusters of units, condos Safe, sustainable communities Flexible, creative re housing Transportation Environmentally healthy, green space Higher density development Prevent sprawl of single family homes Take over responsibility of all building permits 2 Advocacy and leadership Lobby for additional rent subsidies/funding, legislative changes Higher social assistance rates Working cooperatively with all levels of government Leader in housing very active role Leadership to municipalities, developers to create and fund appropriate housing 3 More affordable and subsidized housing Partnerships working other companies Financial investment in housing Habitat for humanity 4 Diverse housing supply Build more variety of housing, e.g., seniors, families Responses 23 (28%) 18 (21%) 18 (21%) 9 (11%) A2-xxi

Suggested Roles for the Region Responses Build smaller housing (diverse housing supply) Licensing and review of supportive housing 5 Comprehensive housing, support services and 6 (7%) poverty reduction 6 Limited role ensuring vulnerable people have a place 4 (5%) to live Private landlords to manage affordable housing Private sector responsibility 7 Other 6 (7%) Planning was described as including: higher density development (including more condominiums); preventing urban sprawl ; providing environmentally healthy green space; creating safe, sustainable communities taking into account transportation; and enabling innovative housing options. The Region should be a leader in housing - showing leadership to municipalities and developers and working co-operatively with all levels of government. It needs to advocate for additional funding, more rent subsidies and higher social assistance rates. Supply will be increased through partnerships and financial investment in affordable housing. Other actions (less than 10 per cent each) included: providing a diverse supply; comprehensive support services; and ensuring the vulnerable have a safe place to live. Question 14: What action should the Regional Municipality of Durham take over the next 10 years to ensure responsible management of our housing and to meet the needs of our current and future residents? There were 92 (24%) respondents with 118 suggested actions. As noted in the following table, suggested actions for the Region to focus on were: Increasing the supply of affordable housing Planning for diverse and sustainable communities Collaborating with partners and stakeholders to create more housing Creating an enabling environment that encourages more and innovative housing Responsible stewardship A2-xxii

Table 14.1: Ranking of Suggested Actions for the Region Suggested Actions for the Region 1 Build more affordable housing Build on Region owned land Set standards and invest financially in current and future housing stock Make energy efficiency improvements on all directly operated units and promote improvements in the private market Advocate for more federal/provincial funding Advocate to legislate housing mix requirements as part of large housing developments 2 Planning Keep high density housing out of subdivisions Buildings close to amenities Redevelopment of old housing sites Preserve green space, stop urban sprawl Proactive in traffic and housing planning Accessible units Integrated housing, rental buildings to provide 10% of units for social housing Integration of people, urban/rural green space and development Encourage a mix of tenure Secondary suites 3 Consult/collaborate with partners and stakeholders to create more housing 4 Create an enabling environment that encourages more rental housing Lower housing costs and lower development charges Diverse housing, e.g., mobile homes, land lease projects Financial break to developers to build small and economical forms of housing 5 Responsible stewardship Take stock of existing resources, bring them up to standard before further development Responsibly manage current stock Equitable distribution of social housing across the Region Make a plan and make housing a priority, monitor housing plan Responses 21 (18%) 19 (16%) 10 (8%) 9 (8%) 8 (7%) A2-xxiii

Suggested Actions for the Region Responses 6 Constant research to inform policy decision making 6 (5%) 7 Maintenance of private rental stock 5 (4%) Provide better oversight of landlords to upkeep properties Provide financial help to landlords Ensure landlords comply with maintenance demands 8 Build partnerships 5 (4%) Private sector involvement Business communities and financial institutions 9 Financial support for housing and support services 5 (4%) Provide services and supports Create funding for home care, supports for eviction prevention Increase subsidies for low income renters Reduce property taxes for seniors 10 Create innovative financing opportunities for residents 4 (3%) to rent or own housing 11 Education for landlords and tenants, preparing for 4 (3%) early retirement, capacity building, etc. 12 Leave housing to the free market 4 (3%) Financial incentives to private landlords to create safe affordable housing 13 Attract employment 4 (3%) 14 Ontario Works (OW) 3 (3%) Region work with OW to develop a co-op program Raise the eligibility standards for OW 15 Other 11 (9%) Ideas not previously mentioned in the survey under these actions included: Build on Region owned land; make energy efficiency improvements on all directly operated units and promote energy improvements in the private market; advocate to legislate housing mix requirements as part of large housing developments; redevelop old housing sites; integrate housing rental buildings to provide 10 per cent affordable; allow for land lease and mobile homes; and responsibly manage current stock. Lastly, make housing a priority, develop the Durham Housing Plan and monitor results. A2-xxiv

Appendix 3: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The contributions of people from the following groups to the Community Workshop and Focus Group Consultation sessions are gratefully acknowledged: Aboriginal Family Gathering Program Aboriginal Strategy - Central East LHIN AIDS Committee of Durham Ajax Municipal Housing Corporation Boys & Girls Club of Durham Brain Injury Association Brock Community Health Centre Brock Community Health Centre, Durham Elder Abuse Network Central East Regional Specialized Geriatric Services Church of God Sabath-Keeping Community Development Council Durham Community Living Durham North Community Mental Health Association (CMHA) Durham Cornerstone Community Association Dovetail Durham Association for Family Respite Durham Christian Homes Durham College and University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) - Student Association Durham Family Court Clinic Durham Mental Health Services Durham Realtors Association Durham Region Non-Profit Housing Corporation Durham Regional Aboriginal Advisory Circle Durham Regional Police Services (DRPS) Grandview Children's Centre Habitat for Humanity Durham Heritage Oshawa Herizon House Joanne's House Life Centre Non-Profit Housing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society Muslim Welfare Home North House Nourish & Develop Ontario Shores Oshawa NDP Oshawa Senior Citizens Centres Participation House Port Perry Seniors Centre Salvation Army Family Services Scollard Group SERA Community Ventures Inc. Sunrise Seniors Place The Refuge The YEAH Foundation Toronto Real Estate Board United Way Durham Region University of Ontario Institute of Technology - UOIT Whitby Senior Services YMCA The many community members, including tenants, homeowners, seniors, students and people experiencing homelessness who shared their experiences. Elected officials and staff and from the Town of Ajax; Township of Brock; Municipality of Clarington; City of Oshawa; City of Pickering; Township Scugog; Town of Whitby; and Township of Uxbridge. All staff of the Region of Durham who contributed to the development of the Durham Housing Plan.

THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM 605 ROSSLAND RD. E., WHITBY, ON L1N 6A3 905-668-7711 OR 1-800-372-1102 www.durham.ca Connect with the Region of Durham