ELORA – Centre Wellington council approved a new Community Heritage Grant Program on Jan. 15.
The program will provide financial assistance to owners of designated heritage properties to assist with conservation efforts and to encourage additional designation of heritage properties within the township.
Council had previously approved taking three per cent of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming monies that come to the township and putting it in a heritage reserve fund that currently has a $171,000 balance.
Manager of Planning Services Mariana Iglesias said there are 115 designated properties in the township and 1,100 listed properties.
Due to of Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, the clock is ticking on getting listed properties designated before the end of this year.
As of Jan. 1, 2025, all listed properties will be de-listed for five years. Designated properties will remain designated and protected.
Iglesias said as a result, the focus is on getting as many of those listed properties designated as possible.
“The township doesn’t have an incentive program for heritage properties,” she said, adding a grant could add incentive for homeowners to have their property designated.
The grants would pay up to 50 per cent of the cost of a project to a maximum $10,000. Projects would have to meet standards and guidelines but could include a wide variety of upgrades or repairs.
“Investment in heritage properties is beneficial to the township as it helps keep them in good condition, which contributes to aesthetic streetscape appeal, draws tourists, and contributes to economic vitality, but also ensures the long-term conservation of these physical assets,” Iglesias stated in her report.
Applications will be open from January to February each year; this year the application process will close in March.
Iglesias said letters will go out to all owners of designated and listed properties explaining the new grant program and how to apply. Listed properties will also receive information on how to have their property designated.
Councillor Barb Lustgarten-Evoy asked if there was a way to protect listed properties.
“Is there a way for council to make a bylaw about this?” she asked.
“The act is clear,” Iglesias said. “The municipality is not able to add to the register.”
