New community led Lake of Bays Housing Initiative in the works for the Township

The proposal involves 8 new affordable housing units

Lake of Bays Council was introduced to a new community led affordable housing initiative that’s in the works for the Township, in the March 10, 2026, meeting.

Resident and manager of The Pantry Foodbank, Lisa Bixel, presented the new Lake of Bays Housing Initiative (LOBHI).

She explained that so far, the initiative includes local residents, businesses owners, pastors, and parishioners that have collaborated to help try and fill the affordable housing gap in the community.

She said, “The problems are not just homelessness and no money. Rents and food are high. People can’t afford medicine and programs for kids.”

She added, “Costs rise and fixed income doesn’t. That’s where the problems happen.”

According to the LOBHI literature, “Across Muskoka, housing costs have outpaced incomes. In fact, per capita, there are as many homeless or under-housed individuals here as in Toronto.”

It adds, “Lake of Bays faces a critical housing shortage. By 2050, nearly 630 affordable housing units are needed to meet current and future demand.”

Bixel said that the goal of the LOBHI is to build 1–2-bedroom apartments that include onsite space for health and social services. They’re currently looking at space on highway 117 as a potential location for building.

The LOBHI indicates that these types of units are the biggest challenge for residents with income below Muskoka’s regional average of $83,000, as are affordable homes for families with low to moderate income, and accessible housing for seniors and people with disabilities.

According to their literature, they plan to build 8 new units – 4 two-bedroom homes, 4 one-bedroom apartments, and to help homeowners upgrade to secondary suites.

One of their funding initiatives includes offering the community the opportunity to invest in bonds. Residents and cottagers can get bonds ranging from $1,000 (3% return), $5,000 (3.5% return), and $10,000 (5% return).

Residents are also welcome to volunteer their time to help develop the program.

The LOBHI indicates their efforts are aimed at “keeping Lake of Bays vibrant and liveable for everyone.”

Bixel said their model is consistent with other successful ones around the country and internationally. She referred to a Toronto hospital collaboration called the University Health Network as an example of the impact that creating affordable housing can have on homelessness, health, and less ER visits – all drastically improved with the availability of having a place to live.

Council members advised that the LOBHI reach out to the District of Muskoka who currently announced funding for housing initiatives.

Mayor, Terry Glover, expressed appreciation about the initiative, however, added, “this is a really complicated process.”

He said, “I would definitely try and talk to the District and partner with them.”

Bixel expressed interest in contacting the District and confirmed that they are currently creating awareness about the initiative, and next steps will include fundraising this spring and fall.