Windsor mayoral candidate Drew Dilkens has pledged to develop numerous new “affordable and accessible” housing units, including cooperative housing options for families and seniors if he secures a third term in office. Dilkens introduced this housing strategy at the former St. Michael’s Adult Education School location, expressing his intention to collaborate with various governmental levels, private entities, and non-profit developers to establish cooperative housing resembling Windsor’s successful Solidarity Towers.
During his announcement, Dilkens stated that the goal is to establish “Solidarity Towers 2.0,” offering affordable housing solutions for families and seniors at the mentioned site. The original Solidarity Towers was founded in the late 1960s as a non-profit housing cooperative to address the growing need for reasonably priced housing for middle-income workers in Windsor. Dilkens highlighted the ongoing popularity of the existing Solidarity Towers, with a waiting list extending up to seven years.
Dilkens emphasized that the proposed development at the former St. Michael’s site, owned by the city, could consist of a single large tower or two smaller towers, depending on the optimal configuration for the location. He mentioned the importance of ensuring the economic viability of the project through detailed planning and consultation with the city’s planning department.
The mayoral candidate underscored that the housing concept aims to specifically aid two vulnerable demographics: young individuals entering the housing market and seniors seeking downsizing options within their budget. Dilkens pointed out challenges faced by seniors looking to transition from larger homes to smaller residences due to high costs associated with townhouses or condominiums.
Dilkens also stressed the necessity of partnerships for such housing projects, as the city cannot independently undertake such initiatives. He highlighted the significance of collaborating with partners like labor unions to access funding sources beyond the city’s capabilities.
Moreover, Dilkens mentioned that he has already initiated discussions with community leaders, labor representatives, and city departments to explore the cooperative housing concept, including engaging with Unifor Local 444 members and former Ontario cabinet minister Dave Cooke. He expressed his commitment to delivering the proposed project during his upcoming term.
The Solidarity Tower proposal is part of a broader housing agenda, with Dilkens committing to facilitating the construction of an additional 5,000 homes over the next four years. His comprehensive plan includes reducing and freezing development charges by 70%, advancing housing development in various locations across the city, and pursuing residential projects at former hospital sites.
According to Dorian Moore, an architect, urban designer, and University of Windsor professor, efforts to expand Windsor’s housing supply, including the Solidarity Tower 2.0 proposal, should be approached thoughtfully, considering the existing neighborhood dynamics. Moore emphasized the importance of designing developments that align with and enhance the surrounding community.
Moore highlighted the need to assess each site individually to determine the compatibility of proposed developments with the neighborhood context. He endorsed cooperative housing as a viable solution to address affordability concerns in Windsor, emphasizing the importance of exploring diverse housing options.
In conclusion, Dilkens is committed to furthering affordable housing initiatives, seeking federal funding for new projects, and expanding housing options for various demographics in Windsor. The upcoming municipal election on Oct. 26 will determine the city’s leadership, with Dilkens facing competition from several candidates.
