Lanark County Social Services has launched a county-wide public survey — in early February 2026 — to help draft its next 10-year Housing & Homelessness Plan (2026–2036). The mandatory strategy will guide how provincial and municipal funding is allocated for rent‑geared‑to‑income units, emergency shelters and transitional housing across Perth, Smiths Falls, Carleton Place and surrounding townships through 2036.
The new strategy will replace the county’s 2014–2024 10‑year plan and is intended to address the persistent shortage of rental units and low vacancy rates in the area. According to county reports, the plan’s goals include increasing affordable housing options and strengthening supports for people at risk of losing their homes. Former Warden Steve Fournier (quoting county council highlights from October 2024) said, “We are committed to creating a future where homelessness is a thing of the past.” (Note: Richard Kidd was acclaimed as Lanark County Warden for 2026 in November 2025.)
Residents can participate in the county-wide consultation online through Lanark County’s consultation portal (the survey platform described as “Join In Lanark” in council materials) or request a paper copy at the Social Services office in Perth. Feedback from the survey will help prioritize projects similar to the 15‑unit affordable housing project in Perth supported by Carebridge Community Support, which received county backing and funding announcements in 2024 and 2025. These developments are intended to provide stable homes for people who struggle to afford market rents.
County reporting from 2024 shows dozens of people on the local by‑name list of people experiencing homelessness (roughly 60 individuals were identified in late 2024), with a subset of households classified as chronically homeless. Emily Hollington, Director of Social Services for Lanark County, said the new plan is designed to use flexible, streamlined funding so service managers “can target where community need is greatest and make the most impact on reducing and preventing homelessness.” The final version of the 2026–2036 strategy is scheduled to be presented to County Council for approval later in 2026.
