Timmins, ON – The Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB), alongside the City of Timmins, celebrated the official groundbreaking of the Timmins Tax Arrear Redevelopment Project today in Timmins.
This project will deliver four new housing developments across Timmins, increasing the local housing supply by transforming underutilized properties into four, new one-bedroom duplexes for a total of eight new housing units. The CDSB is redeveloping three properties acquired from the City of Timmins tax arrear process (159 Balsam Street North, 71 Elm Street North, 218 Sixth Avenue) and one previously acquired property (214 Balsam Street South). Currently vacant lots, this redevelopment represents an investment of $2.9M and is a meaningful step forward to address local housing needs. Construction on all four properties is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
“This project reflects what strong partnerships can achieve when we work together to address housing needs in our community,” shared Mayor Michelle Boileau, Chair of the Cochrane District Services Board. “By repurposing underutilized properties, we are creating new, affordable housing and investing in the future of Timmins.”
“I am happy to see this project move forward,” said Brian Marks, Chief Administrative Officer of the Cochrane District Services Board. “This work started in 2023, and we are grateful to the City of Timmins to provide this opportunity and to begin construction on four duplex units. Expanding access to safe, affordable housing is critical across the Cochrane District. This initiative demonstrates how innovative approaches can turn existing assets into meaningful solutions for individuals and families.”
On December 12th, 2024, ownership of four properties was officially transferred from the City of Timmins for $2. Three of the properties are being developed through this project, while the fourth (37 Montgomery) will be completed in 2027. The transfer was supported by the City of Timmins By-Law No. 2024-8995, which required construction on the properties to be completed within 30 months, ensuring timely development of housing.
On Thursday, June 18th, CDSB passed a resolution to allocate $1,755,220 of the 2026-2027 Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative (COCHI) to support construction costs.
The Timmins Tax Arrears Housing Redevelopment Project demonstrates how strategic partnerships and innovative approaches can turn underutilized assets into lasting community benefit. As construction moves forward, these developments will help expand access to housing and support stronger, more resilient communities across Timmins.
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About the Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB)
The Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) is a regional leader in delivering essential social and emergency services across Northeastern Ontario. Serving a diverse and expansive region, CDSB provides integrated programs in paramedic services, housing, children’s services, and community development and services.
With a strong focus on community partnerships and equity, CDSB is committed to supporting the well-being of all residents—including Indigenous, Francophone, and other equity-deserving populations. Through innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of District needs, CDSB works to ensure accessible, high-quality services that build stronger, healthier communities.
For more information, please contact:
Cochrane District Services Board
Kaileigh Russell
Communications Manager, Cochrane District Services Board
kaileigh.russell@cdsb.care
(O) 705-268-7722 Ext. 244
(C) 705-406-9286
