The Task Force report outlines essential priorities and actions to tackle the housing crisis in Mississauga
We are pleased to see an exciting initiative from the City of Mississauga aimed at addressing the significant barriers to housing development. The city has taken a proactive approach by assembling the Mayor’s Housing Task Force to explore innovative strategies that can unlock housing opportunities. The recently released Partners in Homebuilding: Mayor’s Housing Task Force Report proposes practical solutions to foster innovation, streamline processes, and attract private-sector investment—all aimed at easing Ontario’s housing shortage.
Revamping fees and taxes to make housing more affordable
95% of new homes in Canada are built by the private sector, yet development charges, taxes, and fees can significantly affect project feasibility. To address this, the task force recommends 14 actions, including phased fee structures that reduce upfront costs, tax incentives for developers focused on affordable housing, and revised municipal fee schedules that reflect current market realities. By lowering financial barriers, these measures aim to encourage more affordable housing projects and enable smaller developers to compete in the market.
Updating building and design regulations to enhance affordability and supply
Building and design regulations should promote, rather than impede, well-planned developments. The report outlines seven actions that include revising outdated building codes, streamlining regulatory requirements, and implementing flexible design guidelines. These changes can reduce construction expenses without compromising quality or safety. Ensuring that regulations keep pace with market conditions can help Ontario stimulate innovative and cost-effective housing solutions across the province.
Reforming zoning policies to expand housing options
To meet the growing need for affordable homes, the private sector must have access to sustainable, long-term funding mechanisms. The task force proposes four actions, which include establishing dedicated funding pools for affordable housing projects, offering tax abatements to developers who prioritize affordability, and leveraging public lands for mixed-income developments. These recommendations aim to reduce financial risk and foster partnerships with non-profit organizations, ultimately increasing the supply of affordable units.
Developing long-term funding strategies to drive affordable housing
In the face of these interlocking challenges, One Ontario is pioneering an integrated approach to reshape the province’s housing landscape. Rather than layering on new policies or relying on further government intervention, One Ontario focuses on breaking down bureaucratic barriers and promoting streamlined processes.
How One Ontario drives these changes
The Task Force report provides valuable insights into tackling Ontario’s housing challenges, and the City of Mississauga's leadership in implementing these recommendations serves as an inspiration for other municipalities. One Ontario supports these initiatives and highlights the critical role of digital solutions in enhancing efficiency, transparency, and collaboration across the industry.
Lengthy regulatory processes often escalate costs, but One Ontario’s integrated digital permit solutions streamline compliance checks and provide real-time tracking, enabling municipalities and developers to work together more effectively and complete projects faster. In addition, sustainable funding strategies are critical for affordable housing. Through digitized city datasets, One Ontario can help identify high-impact areas for investment and align financial resources with strategic priorities. The team of experts at One Ontario ensure that funds are allocated and managed responsibly, bolstering trust among stakeholders.
Combining policy reforms, innovative funding models, and advanced digital tools can help Ontario move closer to a housing market that meets the needs of all its residents.
For more information:
Saman Davari
BIM Manager
Saman.davari@oneontario.ca