The Town of Okotoks will soon be home to one of the first Tiny Home Eco Villages in Canada after Vagabond Tiny Homes approached the town with the proposal.

Dawn Smith, Environment and Sustainability Coordinator with the town, says this idea fits future development goals for Okotoks.

"We're really excited about this unique project, it really meets Okotoks' mandate for the way we want to develop in the future," she said.

Planning is still in the initial stages, however, the location chosen by the town is the Kinsmen Park on Oak Avenue, as it is the only location that meets the requirements for funding applied for through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Affordable Rental Innovation Fund.

Smith says this won't solve all the current housing issues, but is a start for a certain demographic.

"The town doesn't see this as an ultimate solution for affordable housing, or different types of homes away from the traditional single family, suburban model that we have in Okotoks. This is one solution to address this issue that will appeal to a certain demographic," she said.

The next stage in the plan is to begin design, which will include three different types of tiny homes for the village. A one bedroom with loft model that is approximately 380 square feet, a two bedroom with loft model with about 550 square feet, and a fully wheelchair accessible model with one bedroom, about 550 square feet.

Smith adds that this will address some of the town's major objectives for future developments, including advanced environmental technology and urban food production. Part of the development plan includes a community garden, and outdoor greenhouse for year-round growing. Another component is the addition of a communal building for rental for events, gatherings and storage space.

Land development is set to begin this fall, including installation of services. The goal is to begin construction next spring, with completion set for the end of 2019 or early 2020.

An initial information session and tour of a tiny home will be held during chilifest on august 25th, with additional public participation opportunities to be offered this fall.

The town has also provided a dedicated page link for additional information on the project, which can be found at:  www.okotoks.ca/EcoVillage.