July 2025 Check In: Next Steps

With the Final Report now completed, our work shifts to implementing the Report’s recommendations. This involves staff across different teams putting together workplans that will ensure we get from where we are today to where we want to be.

Our goal is to provide regular updates on our progress with a focus on next steps for projects that are underway or about to get started.

Comprehensive Community Plan – Exit 6 (Hubbards)

In May, work got underway on the development of a comprehensive community plan for the Exit 6 (Hubbards) area.

In July, we will complete a technical background memo providing an analysis of technical servicing information, planning documents, and demographic and housing data to support future work. Additionally, we will identify proposed servicing plans for the area and identify a development boundary. A development boundary is the proposed area to be served by new wastewater and water services. These services, once completed, would allow for additional missing middle housing options in the area.

In August-September, policy and zoning frameworks would be drafted to support the creation of development scenarios which will serve as the foundation for public engagement scheduled to take place this Fall in Hubbards and area.

Based on the outcomes of this engagement, a preferred scenario would be developed and presented to Council for approval.

Stay tuned for more details on the upcoming public engagement once dates and locations are confirmed.

Growth Plan Communications Strategy

A scope of work for this project has been developed and a request for proposals has been issued to hire a consultant to assist with this work.

The strategy will also result in the creation of a Workforce/Resident Attraction Program promoting the benefits of living and working in the Municipality of Chester (MOC). Additionally, the consultant will assist in creating a plan for the marketing and sales of residential development to support building new housing in the municipality.

Explore Housing Development Incentive Options / Develop a Surplus Land Banking Policy

Work is underway to develop an incentive package that would support the development of affordable housing within MOC. We anticipate that this will be presented to Council by the end of 2025.

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Work also continues on nine Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) initiatives that will support housing in MOC. In addition to the initiatives mentioned above, this includes implementing e-permitting and updating MOC’s Subdivision By-law, Sewer By-law, and Municipal Specifications.

Stay tuned for more details as they become available or contact Brian Webb, Senior Economic Development Officer with any questions you may have.