A new pilot program will be launched in Barrie to boost housing construction by allowing eligible builders to defer development charges.
Mayor Alex Nuttall, using strong mayor powers, has directed a 12-month development charge deferral program that lets developers postpone fee payments — usually due before permits — until occupancy or two years later, interest-free.
“This is about getting homes built faster and reducing the red tape that slows down construction,” he said.
“By deferring development charges up front, we’re giving builders the flexibility they need to get shovels in the ground and deliver the housing our community desperately needs.”
The initiative is part of the city’s strategy to address the growing demand for housing and stimulate new development. City staff are currently developing the details of the program, which is expected to launch later this year.
The pilot signals a new direction in Barrie’s development strategy, aiming to lower upfront costs for builders and attract greater investment in housing projects.
Coun. Sergio Morales, who represents Ward 9 — a part of Barrie that has seen significant housing development — said he’s looking forward to seeing the results of the pilot program.
“I’ll be enthusiastically awaiting the results of this pilot,” he said.
“Innovative solutions to getting more housing built, especially those on where a small factor means the difference between being built or remaining unbuilt, are due their time.”
