Key Takeaways from OnePoint’s Virtual Spring Panel of Planners

On April 28th, OnePoint Association of REALTORS® brought members together for an engaging and informative Virtual Spring Panel of Planners, featuring municipal planners from across Huron, Perth, and Bruce Counties. Participating planners included Monica Morrison and Amy Rogers from the County of Bruce; Sarah Smith and Hanna Holman from the County of Huron; and John Bice, Haylee Hallema (Perth South), and Jeff Bannon (Perth East) from the County of Perth. The session provided timely insights into the evolving planning landscape and reinforced the critical connection between municipal policy and real estate practice.

This year’s panel gave attendees a valuable opportunity to hear directly from planning professionals about the priorities, pressures, and opportunities shaping their communities.

Across all three counties, a common theme emerged: balancing growth with infrastructure capacity, while working to address ongoing housing supply challenges.

Attendees gained a clearer understanding of:

• Current and upcoming development trends

• Municipal approaches to managing growth and intensification

• Key planning considerations influencing housing availability

In addition, planners provided a practical overview of where members can access municipal planning services, who to contact for specific inquiries, and the mapping tools and resources best suited to support REALTORS® in their day-to-day business. This guidance offered valuable clarity and accessibility for members navigating local planning systems.

These insights provided important context for REALTORS® working in increasingly complex local markets. The session also deepened understanding of municipal planning processes, including timelines, approvals, and where delays may occur, while strengthening collaboration between REALTORS® and municipal staff.

The discussion further highlighted key opportunities and challenges affecting housing supply, particularly infrastructure constraints and policy considerations and reinforced the important role REALTORS® play in informing housing discussions and advocacy efforts.

Planners also expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to connect with OnePoint members and share their expertise, underscoring the value of continued collaboration between municipalities and the real estate community.

Overall, the panel supported both professional development and OnePoint’s advocacy efforts by equipping members with relevant, real-time knowledge while fostering stronger regional engagement.

We look forward to continuing these important conversations in future sessions.