Lakeshore’s 2026 Social Housing Decision, Explained
Quick answer: On February 25, 2026, Lakeshore Council voted unanimously to keep social and affordable housing administration with the City of Windsor under the existing Consolidated Municipal Service Manager arrangement. Council also supported asking Windsor to revisit the agreement and include homelessness considerations.
What does the current arrangement do?
The City of Windsor acts as the Consolidated Municipal Service Manager for social and affordable housing across Windsor and Essex County. That means administration, waitlists, and much of the regional housing system are handled through Windsor rather than separately by each municipality.
Why did Lakeshore keep the existing model?
Council members cited the cost and duplication involved in building a separate local administration. Mayor Tracey Bailey said a local model was estimated to require roughly $3 million per year in staffing, while other members argued that problems with the current system should be addressed through the regional arrangement.
Were there concerns about the regional system?
Yes. Other Essex County leaders have publicly raised concerns about waitlists, housing supply, and the performance of the regional system. Lakeshore’s motion included a request to revisit the agreement and consider homelessness as part of that discussion.
What is Sam Sinjari’s stated position?
Sam Sinjari supports active Lakeshore participation in regional affordable-housing discussions and stronger advocacy for residents facing housing insecurity. His position is that regional responsibility does not prevent Lakeshore from pressing for measurable results or considering appropriate local actions within municipal authority.
Source: AM800 CKLW reporting on the February 25, 2026 council decision and the Municipality of Lakeshore public record.