Bracebridge, Ontario

subdivision plan to add 200 new units in 2021. Mattamy Homes, a major developer, has continued to build homes in Bracebridge, often expanding into areas of subdivisions that were previously left undeveloped. Like many communities in Ontario, affordable and attainable housing is an issue. “Pre-COVID, one of our strategic priorities was to facilitate a very strong mix of housing,” says Maloney. “We‘ve opened some opportunities for smaller lots and have encouraged, not just us at the Town of Bracebridge but at the district level, some money for developers to build attainable and affordable housing. It’s been a high priority for us, and certainly, we have adjusted our policies.” Keeping development charges below maximum rates and offering affordable housing initiatives to developers are a few ways the town is working to promote this type of development in the community. Bracebridge has seen an increased demand for skilled workers in the building and renovation trades. With more people staying home, and working from home, many are investing in property improvements, resulting in busy local contractors and sometimes long waits to get a project completed. This demand has created an opportunity for younger people who would like to stay in the area. Maloney explains, “With the cottage lifestyle, there is a high demand for skilled labor, particularly when it comes to building on the lakes. We’re fortunate to have Georgian College in our community, offering apprentice-type programming that makes people job ready and able to stay in Bracebridge to work. We don’t want to have an exodus of our youth leaving the community. As much as it is a challenge, we would like to have opportunities for people to stay here, by choice, not leave by necessity.” Bracebridge has continuously invested in the community to create an environment that is appealing and ready for industry, as well as those who work from home. Maloney reports, “We BRACEBR IDGE , ONTAR IO