By The Courier
A new housing development in Saint Andrews is providing much-needed relief to individuals and families struggling to find affordable housing.
The Compass, a 42-unit complex on Mowat Drive developed by Compass Housing, officially opened following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 25, 2025 attended by town officials, developers, and new residents.
Mayor Brad Henderson highlighted the significance of the project in addressing the housing shortage in Charlotte County.
“We know that across Charlotte County, many people are struggling to find an affordable place to live,” Henderson told The Courier. “This project has been three years in the making, and it’s a major win for our community. Seeing children at the bus stop and knowing that families are building their lives here is exactly what Saint Andrews needs for long-term growth.”
The town played a pivotal role in making the project a reality, contributing $500,000 in funding, which is expected to be recouped through property taxes in the coming years. Henderson stressed the council’s commitment to innovative solutions despite obstacles such as rising construction costs and limited federal funding.
“There were so many reasons this could have failed,” he said. “But we were determined to make it happen.” He noted that offering development grants for affordable housing was a strategic investment in the town’s future, with benefits that extend beyond the housing sector to economic growth and infrastructure improvements.
For Compass Housing Developer and President Tressa Bevington, who grew up in St. Andrews and wanted to make a difference in her hometown, the project was personal.
“With the housing crisis affecting so many, my father [Compass Housing Project Manager Gerald Ingersoll] and I knew we had to do something,” Bevington said. “We had just completed a project in Saint Stephen, and we wanted to bring that same opportunity to Saint Andrews—a place where families could return, settle down, and thrive.”
The complex is now home to between 70 and 90 residents, including seniors, young families, and students. Rental rates range from $950 to $1,500, with 25 per cent of the units designated as affordable housing.
Bevington emphasized the dedication required to tackle housing challenges.
“If you’re a developer looking to make a difference, you have to be passionate,” she said. “It’s a 24/7 job, but the impact is worth it. There are resources and municipal programs available, but it takes persistence and vision to bring a project like this to life.”
As the housing crisis continues to strain small communities, both Henderson and Bevington hope this project can serve as a model for other municipalities.
“You have to be creative and own your decisions,” Henderson said. “Instead of focusing on why something can’t be done, you need to take action and make it happen. That’s how real change is made.”
