Giving Vacant Properties a Second Life

Vacant and underused properties are an opportunity worth paying attention to. When homes and commercial buildings sit empty or deteriorate, we lose potential housing, business space, investment, and activity within our community.

I would like to see Council take a proactive but reasonable approach to encouraging the revitalization of these properties. The goal shouldn't be development for the sake of development. It should be finding ways to work with property owners, attract responsible investment, and breathe new life into existing spaces while protecting the character of Bonnechere Valley.

Start With What We Already Have Before focusing solely on new development, I believe we should look at opportunities within our existing built community. Empty storefronts could become businesses again. Underused commercial buildings may have redevelopment potential. Vacant homes could return to our housing supply. Not every property will have a simple solution, but Council can help create an environment where responsible redevelopment is encouraged rather than unnecessarily difficult. Removing Barriers and Encouraging Investment I would like Council to examine what tools are realistically available to a municipality our size. That could include identifying applicable grants and incentive programs, reviewing municipal processes that may create unnecessary barriers, promoting available commercial opportunities, and working with property owners and prospective investors who want to improve existing properties. Where appropriate, we should also explore partnerships with the County, other levels of government, community organizations, and the private sector rather than expecting local taxpayers to carry the entire cost.

Revitalization and Affordability Go Together A stronger local tax base benefits everyone. When existing properties are productive, businesses are operating, and responsible investment is happening, we have more economic activity contributing to our community. That is why I see revitalization as part of fiscal responsibility—not separate from it. We should be looking for opportunities to grow our assessment base and strengthen our local economy while making thoughtful decisions about municipal spending. Growth Without Losing What Makes Us Home Bonnechere Valley doesn't need to become something entirely different in order to grow. We can welcome investment, support local businesses, encourage new uses for old spaces, and create opportunities while still protecting the rural character, history, and natural beauty that make people want to live here in the first place. Sometimes building what's next starts with giving what we already have a second chance.