Reporting Out – Braemar Meetings Jan. 28

Staff present information to near neighbours of the new supportive housing site on Braemar Road.Staff present information to near neighbours of the new supportive housing site on Braemar Road.

On Jan. 28, City staff led two community meetings with Ryandale staff present to discuss the new supportive housing site on Braemar Road. Approximately 40 near neighbours attended.

City staff and the site operator (Ryandale) shared information on the property selection process, site operations, heard concerns and outlined next steps. Following a short presentation and video, staff answered questions and heard feedback.

Topics Covered

Supportive Housing Model

  • Overview of housing continuum (shelter → transitional housing → supportive housing → independent living)
  • Broad efforts across the City in addition to multiple supportive housing units: new shelters, transitional housing and geared‑to‑income units
  • Supportive housing serves individuals who may be working or ready for more independence but cannot yet afford market rent

Council context, property selection and work to date

  • Property was selected in late 2025
  • Explanation of Closed Meetings and why public notice could only occur after the sale closed (real estate process, confidentiality)
  • Emphasis on Councillors making decisions on behalf of public and how feedback is considered
  • Multiple City departments are involved in reviewing properties for safety, suitability, price, transit access, etc.
  • No additional supportive housing purchases planned until after 2026 to allow community adjustment
  • Renovations underway at property to meet City building standards: fire code compliance, electrical work, siding repairs, etc.

Operations, staffing and screening

  • 7 residents (at Braemar, all women), site is properly zoned
    • Residents can stay as long as they need to while working towards their goals and following programming requirements
    • Funding rules require that residents come from within Kingston
    • Applicants must self‑disclose criminal history; with verifications in place.
    • Restrictions on accepting individuals with recent serious offences
    • Independent background checks are limited by human rights considerations and funding which will be reviewed by staff
    • Each resident has a case manager, and the site includes a house manager
    • Expected move in date March 2026
    • The site will have staff on-site 24/7. Staffing levels and needs will continue to be reviewed and adjusted as the program moves forward. Staff reductions or additions would be made in consultation with the City and based on the needs of the program.
  • Post-supportive housing
    • Ryandale maintains connections with residents after they move on
    • Outreach and alumni support programs help prevent returns to homelessness
    • Newly funded housing navigator supports residents integrating into long‑term rental housing

Daily living, neighbourhood expectations

  • Residents follow house rules including: sober-living model, guest hours, no pets, smoking/vaping outdoor only
  • Staff are considering additions such as a gazebo
  • Residents requested to review the City’s “Good Neighbour Guide”
  • Activities:
    • Residents often volunteer or work
    • Community skill‑building sessions and recreational activities offered
    • Volunteer opportunities are available for neighbours (screening is required)
    • Neighbourhood groups, newsletters and BBQs encouraged
  • Reporting Concerns
    • Property standards concerns should be reported to the City through the ‘Contact us’ process

Concerns raised and responses

  • Safety concerns near schools
    • Response: Supportive housing already exists near many schools without safety issues. Screening data shows no incidents of harm to children or community members.
  • Desire for earlier community engagement
    • Response: Staff explained the process, documented feedback and outlined upcoming engagements with Ryandale.
  • Property values, neighborhood impacts and concentration of supportive housing
    • Response: Staff confirmed available data does not support these concerns.
  • Appearance of Property
    • Response: Commitment to maintaining the home as a typical residential property with no signage
  • Parking and snowplowing
    • Concerns were discussed and addressed

Communications, public engagement, getting involved

  • City communications
    • Acknowledgement of communication challenges and commitment to improvement (Council Motion)\
    • FAQs and meeting summary to be posted on the Get Involved PageWebinar registration information shared (March 4,2025)
    • Feedback options provided at meeting, including comment cards
  • Neighbour involvement
    • Donations for household items welcomed
    • Opportunities to stay connected with with Ryandale through feedback form and newsletter
    • Volunteer opportunities shared
    • Ryandale plans to establish a Community Liaison group

City staff emphasized a commitment to ongoing dialogue, improved transparency and building trust over time. Attendees were invited to share their email address with Ryandale to receive updates and were encouraged to stay involved through Get Involved Kingston.