Almonte affordable housing project could start site work in June 2026, aiming for summer 2027 occupancy
MISSISSIPPI MILLS — Mississippi Mills council has approved a memorandum of understanding with the Lanark Community Alliance to support the development of an affordable housing project on municipally owned land in Almonte.
The agreement would see the municipality transfer a vacant parcel at the southeast corner of Adelaide and McDermott streets to the organization for $1 once funding for the project is secured.
According to a staff report presented to council on Feb. 24, the Lanark Community Alliance has identified a potential provincial funding opportunity that requires projects to be essentially shovel-ready, with site work beginning as early as June and occupancy potentially targeted for summer 2027.
Entering into the memorandum of understanding allows the organization to demonstrate municipal support as part of its funding application.
If the project proceeds, the agreement requires construction of a minimum of 10 affordable housing units on the property.
The proposed site was identified after the municipality determined another previously considered property would not meet the province’s timeline.
In 2022, the municipality signed a memorandum of understanding with the organization, then operating as Carebridge Community Support Corporation, to explore the development of approximately 18 affordable housing units at 34 Victoria St.
However, staff said that site is no longer available within the required timeframe due to the construction of the new daycare facility on a portion of the property.
The Adelaide and McDermott parcel was rezoned in 2025 as part of the municipality’s Housing Accelerator Fund work to support increased housing supply.
While the property allows for multi-unit residential development, staff noted that a future zoning bylaw amendment may still be required, depending on the final design, including the possibility of stacked townhouses or a low-rise apartment building and adjustments to parking requirements.
The site also does not currently have municipal water and wastewater servicing.
Staff indicated servicing options may include temporary connections or coordination with nearby development as part of the Hannan Hills subdivision.
Under the proposed agreement, the municipality would also support the project through letters of support for funding applications and exemptions from certain planning and building fees already approved by council for non-profit housing developments.
If funding is secured, the municipality would transfer the land once the organization demonstrates it has the financing in place and approvals required to proceed with construction.
The memorandum of understanding would remain in effect for four years. If the project does not move ahead or funding is not secured, ownership of the property would remain with the municipality.
Keep connected to your community—Read the latest Mississippi Mills news.
For more Mississippi Mills council visit their website.
