by Chad Ingram

Places for People is hoping to locate its next project in Minden.

The non-profit, affordable housing corporation is interested in turning a building on Bobcaygeon Rd. into a duplex for low-income families.

President Fay Martin visited Minden Hills councillors at their Jan. 26 meeting to discuss the possibility.

“We’ve located a property in Minden we think would be very suitable,” Martin said.

The building is located at 168 Bobcaygeon Road, between Molly’s Bistro Bakery and the Minden Lions Hall.

Places for People would like to renovate it to contain two, 1,000-square-foot, three-bedroom apartments.

While it is currently zoned commercial, Martin said it was her understanding it’s been used for residential purposes throughout its lifetime.

The project would require a zoning change from C4 commercial to R2 residential, as well as a variance.

Township bylaws dictate that a minimum of 10,000 square feet of property is required to house such a project.

The property is approximately 8,000 square feet.

Martin was also hoping if her organization was to go ahead with the project, the township would waive the associated development fees, since the organization would be doing something for the community.

Places for People would like to ensure that it has council’s support for the project, before approaching funding agencies, Martin said.

Reeve Barb Reid suggested that the item be referred to staff to investigate the possibility of a zoning change and variance, any opportunity for the township to expedite the process and the possibility of financial relief with regard to fees.

Council expects to discuss the issue further at their February committee-of-the-whole meeting.

The organization’s first project transformed the former Orange Lodge in Haliburton Village into a duplex.

It’s been two years since tenants moved in there.