Huron-Kinloss council

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Huron-Kinloss had numerous new homes built in 2011, but overall construction was slower than in 2010.

Chief building official Matt Farrell presented his year-end report at the township's general committee meeting Monday (Jan. 9).

There were 164 permits issued last year, down from 205 the previous year, said Farrell. The overall value of construction was $14.157-million, down from $27-million in 2010. The average permit value was $86,328 in 2011.

Farrell noted that 2010 was an exemplary construction year. In 2009, Huron-Kinloss saw 161 permits issued, with a total construction value of $18.491-million.

There were 40 new homes built last year, compared to 61 in 2010 and 51 in 2009, said Farrell. The average value per residence was $238,290, slightly lower than $268,065 the previous year.

Four new large barns were built in the township in 2011, as well as several additions which required Nutrient Management Plans under the Nutrient Management Act, Farrell said. 

Agriculture construction remained consistent compared to 2010, but the commercial-industrial-institutional sector was down considerably from 2010, he said.

Inverlyn Estates had 10 new homes built, with more to come this year. Heritage Heights had seven new homes, and should see more constructed this year as well.

Farrell said the building department will see several changes in the beginning of 2012. Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code will no longer be administered by the Grey Bruce Health Unit, he said. The township, working with B.M. Ross and Associates, will now be in charge of septic system approvals.

There are also several new amendments to the Building Code affecting energy efficiency and occupancy which will require some adjustment to enforcement, said Farrell.

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Wednesday, January 11, 2012