On October 21, 2025, the Town of Smooth Rock Falls announced that Council authorized Administration to proceed and sign 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 were in favor of 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 only. This next phase consists of a site assessment, a 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 is 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 the financial pro forma, is being undertaken at no cost to the Town. Importantly, this authorization does not represent a final decision by Council to proceed with construction, and if Council ultimately chooses not to move forward, there will be no financial obligation to the Town for work completed at this stage.

Financial Structure and Taxpayer Impact

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.

Municipal property taxes will not be increased to fund this project. While the Town may initially assist with securing financing, any loan associated with the project is intended to be transferred to the not-for-profit organization upon completion. Council will not approve any borrowing or construction unless it is satisfied that there is no impact on the municipal tax levy.
Any future decision to proceed with construction would require a separate Council approval at a public meeting, following full review of financial, legal, and operational details.

Next Steps and Public Information

In January 2026, a dedicated page will be launched on the Town’s website to provide residents with ongoing updates on the project. This page will include the Needs Analysis Report, Senior Housing Committee meeting minutes, and future project updates. Highlights will also continue to be shared through the Town’s Citizen’s Corner.

The proposed units would be constructed in accordance with Ontario Building Code accessibility standards. While garages are not currently intended in the concept, storage options will be reviewed as part of the design process.

Additional updates will be provided to residents throughout the first quarter of 2026. Residents are encouraged to continue participating in the community survey. Paper copies remain available at Town Hall, and the survey can also be completed online: https://tinyurl.com/47abjcuv

Council and the Senior Housing Committee remain committed to transparency, careful financial review, and ongoing community engagement as this work continues.