The City of Burlington has simplified and removed restrictions within their new zoning bylaw. This includes having fewer distinct residential zones, by reducing them from 31 to 9, allowing more housing forms as-of-right, as well as added flexibility to setbacks.  

Cornerstone had the opportunity to support these changes during a delegation. 

The City of Burlington is investigating changes to the planning approval process that would speed up development by reducing the need for resubmissions. The new process would also guarantee approval within 60 days, clarify requirements, and implement a concurrent building permit review where possible.  

The motion to develop these proposals was passed on March 5 at the Pipeline to Permit committee. 

Cornerstone attended the WEHBA Industry Luncheon on February 19. The event featured insightful presentations and panel discussions on the current housing market challenges, including affordability, regulatory changes, and sustainable development. Speakers included Mayor Meed Ward, Hon. Graham McGregor, Hon. Karina Gould, and Christina Giannone, Chair of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association.  

The City of Hamilton has opened applications for their ADU and Multi-Plex housing incentive program, which can cover up to $40,000 per unit and up to 70% of eligible costs.  

On March 4, Cornerstone attended the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce AGM and heard updates on the work of the Chamber over the last year and remarks from Mayor Horwath.  

At the event, the Chamber launched its 2025 Impact Report. There a few nods to Cornerstone throughout!  

All property owners in Hamilton must complete a declaration of their property’s occupancystatus by April 15. Late declarations will be accepted until May 15 with a late declaration fee of $250.  

The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce will host the Mayor’s Breakfast on April 28.  

Niagara Amalgamation Under Consideration 

The amalgamation of Niagara into either one or four municipalities is currently being discussed after the issue was raised by Former Regional Chair Bob Gale. Some local Mayors have expressed dissent, and with the municipal election period commencing on May 1, there are likely to be more updates soon.  

Cornerstone is proud to once again participate in and sponsor the upcoming Norfolk Innovation Frontier Forum on April 9 at the Delhi German Hall. Hosted by the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature engaging keynote speakers discussing topics such as artificial intelligence, downtown revitalization, and the dynamics of businesses and non-profits operating in rural communities. Cassie Campbell-Pascal, two-time Canadian Women’s Hockey Captain, Olympic Gold Medal Winner, NHL Broadcaster, and PWHL Consultant, is the closing keynote speaker you won’t want to miss.   

On March 10, Norfolk council approved recommendations included in the staff report to engage in public consultation on a draft by-law and framework for Short-Term Rental Licensing and a Municipal Accommodation Tax. Council will meet on March 24 for adoption and then move on to consultation. Following the consultation period, staff will return to council with a report on the feedback and next steps.  

Cornerstone hosted its first Local Advocacy Day event at Mississauga City Hall, with meetings with Mayor Parrish and members of City Council. The event also included a reception for Mississauga REALTORS® to meet with local elected officials. Issues discussed included the blending of development charges to remove incentives for micro condos (under 700 sq. ft.) and the creation of a down payment assistance program.  

The Mississauga Board of Trade will host the State of the City on March 24 and its Annual Politicians Reception on April 8.  

Waterloo Region is currently experiencing significant challenges with water capacity in the Mannheim Service Area, leading to a freeze in planning approvals for development.   

Cornerstone is actively engaging with the water issue, collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Waterloo Region Home Builders' Association, the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, and Build Urban. Collectively, we are advocating for increased transparency in water management processes, pushing for the expedited return of planning approvals, and putting pressure to build infrastructure aimed at enhancing water capacity to meet the region’s growing needs. 

Cornerstone is planning to organize another information session with the Region for REALTORS® to learn more details and ask questions related to the water capacity issue. 

The City of Kitchener is reducing the lot width minimum to align with CMHC’s housing design catalogue to ensure that all of their models, in particular the stacked townhouse and sixplex, can be built in Kitchener.  

The Mayor’s State of the City address will take place on April 16 at North Campus Field House.