On October 21, 2025, the Town of Smooth Rock Falls announced that Council authorized Administration to proceed with the signing of a Letter of Engagement with Descon Construction Inc. for the Attainable Community Housing Project. This authorization allowed preliminary work to move forward strictly for information-gathering and feasibility purposes.

As part of this process, Harriman & Associates, a consultant retained by Descon Construction, conducted a community housing survey, which was released publicly in November 2025. Two public information sessions were held on November 18, 2025, with nearly 100 participants in attendance and a total of 115 completed surveys to date.

At the December 11, 2025, meeting of the Senior Housing Committee, a Needs Analysis Report was presented. Key findings from the survey and public engagement included:
• 87% of respondents were over the age of 55
• 6% preferred a one-bedroom unit, 78% preferred a two-bedroom unit, and 11% preferred a three-bedroom unit
• 71% indicated they would consider leaving the community due to a lack of appropriate housing
• Many respondents expressed a preference for in-floor heating

The feedback clearly demonstrates a strong local demand for appropriate senior housing in Smooth Rock Falls.

At its Regular Council Meeting held on December 15, 2025, Council reviewed the Senior Housing Committee’s recommendations and passed a resolution to receive and accept the Needs Analysis Report and to authorize Descon Construction to proceed with the next phase of the project. This phase included a site assessment, detailed project cost analysis, and the preparation of a financial pro forma for a proposed development of twenty (20) two-bedroom units on Catherine Street.

This phase of work was intended solely to provide Council and the Committee with accurate financial and technical information, including estimated construction costs and potential rental rates. All work completed to date, including the Needs Analysis and financial pro forma, has been undertaken at no cost to the Town. Importantly, this authorization did not represent a final decision by Council to proceed with construction, and if Council ultimately chose not to move forward, there would be no financial obligation to the Town for work completed at that stage.

Update – March 16, 2026:
At its March 16, 2026 meeting, Council approved the following:
• Authorization for Administration to proceed with the execution of a CCDC 14 Design-Build contract with Descon Construction Ltd.;
• Approval to establish a not-for-profit corporation to oversee and administer the project;
• Direction to Administration to proceed with all required planning and regulatory approvals necessary to advance the development; and
• Direction to contact residents who previously expressed interest through the community survey and indicated a willingness to submit a deposit. These individuals will be provided with additional details in the coming weeks.

Residents wishing to be added to the interest list are encouraged to contact Shannon Piper at 705-338-2717 ext. 8.

The senior housing project is being structure specifically to avoid placing any financial burden on municipal taxpayers. The intent is to establish a not-for-profit organization to own and operate the development. Rental revenues generated by the project would be used to cover operating costs and debt repayment.

• March 25, 2026 – Town of Smooth Rock Falls Announces Launch of Senior Housing Project
• December 16, 2026 – Community Update Attainable Senior Housing Project
• October 21, 2025 – Town of Smooth Rock Falls Moves Forward with Attainable Community Housing Project

• April 4th, 2026 – Timmins Today Article
• March 27th, 2026 – CTV News Video
• March 27th, 2026 – My Cochrane Now
• December 24th, 2025 – Timmins Today Article
• December 5th, 2025 – Timmins Daily Press Article
• October 28th, 2025 – CTV News Video

When will the building be ready for occupancy?
The building is anticipated to be ready for occupancy in Spring/Summer 2027. Additional details will be shared as the project progresses.

What will the building look like?
The development will consist of 20 two-bedroom units, all designed in accordance with accessibility standards. Please note that there will be no garage included. Floor plans will be made available as they are finalized.

What is the proposed rent for the apartment units?
The estimated rental rate is between $1,600 and $1,750 per month, plus utilities.

How can I apply to rent an apartment?
Individuals interested in renting a unit may be added to the interest list by calling 705-338-2717 ext. 8 or by emailing shannon.piper@townsrf.ca.

As construction progresses, those on the list will be contacted with further information regarding the application and tenancy process.

Will the building be for seniors or for all ages?
At this time, the building is intended for individuals aged 55 and older, subject to final occupancy requirements.

Will the building allow pets?

This information will be made available soon.

Who will be eligible to rent a unit?
It is the Committee’s intention to provide priority access to current and former Smooth Rock Falls residents. Any remaining available units will be offered to other seniors within the region. All applications will be managed through the property management process.

Will a deposit be required to secure a unit?
Yes, a deposit will be required to hold a unit. Units will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis upon receipt of a deposit.

The deposit will be applied toward the last month’s rent or may be refundable under certain conditions.

Is parking included?
On-site parking will be available.

Visitor parking will also be available on-site.