Woolwich Opens New Opportunity for Housing Development in Elmira

Woolwich, ON – The Township of Woolwich is moving forward with a renewed opportunity to support housing development on Township-owned properties at 22 Church Street West and 3 Maple Street in Elmira.

The Township has been advised by Services and Housing In the Province (SHIP) that it will not be proceeding with the purchase of the properties.  In 2023, Council authorized the release of a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking a housing partner to develop the site. Following a competitive process, SHIP was identified as the preferred proponent, and the Township and SHIP entered into negotiations toward an Agreement of Purchase and Sale.

While discussions were undertaken in good faith and significant work was completed by both parties, SHIP has advised the Township that it is not in a position to proceed with the project under the proposed agreement.  The Township appreciates SHIP’s participation throughout the process and its commitment to addressing affordable and supportive housing needs. Although the proposed partnership will not be moving forward, Council remains committed to exploring opportunities to increase housing options within the community.

Council has directed staff to revise and reissue the RFP for the properties. The updated RFP will provide greater flexibility for prospective proponents by considering alternative partnership and ownership arrangements, while continuing to advance Council’s housing objectives for the site.

“While we’re disappointed this particular partnership won’t be moving forward, our commitment to creating more housing opportunities in Woolwich has not changed,” said Mayor Sandy Shantz. “Reissuing the Request for Proposal gives us an opportunity to consider new approaches and partnerships for this site. We look forward to seeing innovative proposals that respond to the housing needs of our growing community.”

The Township remains committed to facilitating a range of housing options, including opportunities for attainable housing, and looks forward to receiving new proposals for the properties.

As it becomes available, additional information about the revised RFP and next steps will be posted on the Township’s EngageWR page: www.engagewr.ca/22-church-street-west

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Media contacts:

Rae Ann Bauman, Corporate Communications
Phone: 519-669-6021
communications@woolwich.ca