County names new director of housing

Adam Goheen, director of housing

Adam Goheen has been named the County’s new Director of Housing.

Goheen is to officially take over the position Jan. 1, 2024, replacing Charles Dowdall, who accepted an appointment to the Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board (Tribunals Ontario) in September.

Goheen is currently the County’s Director of Operational Services.

“Adam has a proven track record of getting things done during his time with the County; drawing on his development experience and negotiation skills,” said Marcia Wallace, Chief Administrative Officer. “I am confident in Adam’s ability to provide leadership and oversight on various projects that will increase the supply of affordable housing for the community.”

Goheen joined the County in July 2020 as Director of Operational Services, overseeing a number of municipal services including road maintenance and rehabilitation, environmental sustainability initiatives, solid waste services, and winter control. Previous, he served in the same position with the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands.

“I am excited to take on this new opportunity,” Goheen said. “The County has made progress in the area of affordable housing over the past several years thanks to the investments from council and the efforts of many individuals and organizations. While there is still work to do, we have a lot of momentum to build on as we work hard to open doors for members of the community.”

The Director of Housing is the primary liaison with the Prince Edward County Affordable Housing Corporation, which supports developers interested in adding affordable housing in Prince Edward County. As part of his commitment to give back to the community, Goheen has volunteered on the board of Habitat for Humanity Prince Edward-Hastings since May of 2021.

Projects underway include the 36-unit apartment building and four attached townhomes at the former Wellington Duke Dome site on Niles Street in Wellington; the 12 units for affordable housing in modular construction at Disraeli Street and the newest venture at the former Queen Elizabeth School site.

“Adam has earned the respect and trust of his colleagues across the municipality,” said Mayor Steve Ferguson. “His strong working relationships will allow him to make critical connections and draw on the strengths in many different departments in order to tackle this complex priority.”

“The Board for the Prince Edward County Affordable Housing Corporation looks forward to working closely with Adam to create more housing that makes a long-lasting difference in the lives of County residents,” said Phil St-Jean, board chair and councillor for Picton ward.