Halifax Introduces New Affordable Housing Plan with Focus on Non-Profit Sector Support
Halifax is rolling out a fresh affordable housing initiative aimed at bolstering the non-profit sector. However, officials caution that it may not completely resolve the overarching issue of steep housing costs in the city.
The proposed strategy was recently presented to the community planning and economic development council committee. It outlines the continuation of the city’s current affordable housing grant programs, along with measures like waiving permit fees and offering tax relief to non-profit housing organizations once federal funding for staffing concludes.
To implement the plan, two new staff positions are needed and are expected to be included in the upcoming 2027-28 city budget. The annual cost for these positions is estimated to be around $242,950 over the next ten years.
Councilor Becky Kent emphasized the importance of supporting independent agencies and services that are already contributing to creating affordable housing in collaboration with the city.
From 2021 to December 2025, existing municipal programs and federal funds, particularly through the Rapid Housing Initiative, have facilitated the development of 1,400 non-market or deeply affordable housing units.
This new strategy marks the final phase of Halifax’s commitments under the Housing Accelerator Fund, which has brought in $80 million in federal funding since 2023 for various housing projects to enhance supply.
Aaron Murnaghan, overseeing the HAF program, informed councilors that Halifax is on track to surpass its target of initiating 2,600 additional housing units above the norm by October, totaling over 15,460 units within three years, with more than 333 dedicated to affordable housing.
However, Murnaghan noted delays in project completions due to construction costs, financing challenges, material availability, labor issues, and the unique topography of the Halifax Regional Municipality.
While the city is making efforts to encourage wooden construction for faster and cost-effective projects, Murnaghan stressed the need for collaboration between the private sector and provincial and federal governments to address the housing supply shortage.
Despite some councilors expressing disappointment in the strategy’s perceived limited impact on market affordability for middle-income residents, the staff affirmed their commitment to advocating for additional measures such as vacant land taxes, waived development charges, and deed transfer tax adjustments.
Looking ahead, the city is exploring the potential of incorporating affordable housing within municipal facilities like fire stations and transit terminals. Alternative models, such as establishing a municipal housing corporation or formal partnerships with non-profits, are also being considered for future implementation.
The strategy is pending final approval by the regional council, with ongoing efforts to address the pressing need for affordable housing solutions in Halifax.
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