Huntsville pursues legal counsel for Huntsville High School's Tiny House Project

The project will allow students to gain hands on experience after the liability issues are resolved

Huntsville General Committee directed staff to pursue legal counsel for Huntsville High School's Tiny House Project, in the November 26, 2025, meeting.

Town Staff initially became aware of the school’s project in 2017, and the goal to sell the home and use the proceeds for future projects. The Building Department got involved with supporting the project, however, it was put on hold due to COVID, as was the funding for it from the Trillium Lakeland District School Board (TLDSB), according to the staff report.

Staff told Committee that during recent discussions with the TLDSB it was realized that both parties should investigate legal counsel regarding concerns around liability measures for the project.

The report adds, “The Town’s involvement is intended to be limited to a funding source for the project and in the statutory role of building permits and inspections.”

However, since COVID the Building Department remained active with the high school, providing information and inviting the students to Town Hall last spring for a tour of the building and Planning Department, watch a career video from the Ontario Building Officials Association, and participate in an inspection skills competition.

The report adds that the school’s project could also “be an added avenue to educate the students on Ontario Building Code requirements and career options, including becoming Building Officials.”

It also praises the potential of the school project. “This project would enable students to gain real-life trade experience as well as create a structure that could be used for our community within the housing market.”

The high school’s construction class has already participated in various construction projects in Town, including housing rebuilding on the Main Street Bridge cabin, and projects at Arrowhead Park.

The Committee agreed to have staff pursue legal counsel so the school can move ahead with the initiative, with costs funded through the Town’s Building Department’s 2025-2026 legal counsel budget.

The staff report also indicates, “Through the establishment of a reserve fund, it is envisioned that the Town’s responsibility in this program is to help fund ongoing expenses associated with the program,” including possibly making a “one time donation for the project,” with TLDSB overseeing future funding.

Staff will provide potential funding options and liability issues for Committee in future reports.