In a move that has ignited debate, a group of British Columbia municipalities is urging the province to reconsider housing legislation aimed at promoting denser development. Despite the pushback, Housing Minister Christine Boyle stands firm, asserting that progress must continue.
Sixteen mayors from Metro Vancouver, representing cities like Surrey, Burnaby, and Richmond, argue that the current legislation disregards local needs, drives up expenses, and lacks sufficient financial backing for essential infrastructure projects. They are specifically urging the repeal of two bills that enforce housing quotas, encourage higher-density housing on traditionally single-family zoned plots, and designate transit hubs for increased density.
Boyle, on the other hand, defends the regulations, claiming they are already generating positive outcomes. She insists that the government has no intentions of rolling back these measures. In response to inquiries about additional funding for municipal infrastructure, Boyle cites budget constraints at all government levels but emphasizes the government’s prior investments in infrastructure, which local authorities can utilize as needed.
While Boyle refrains from discussing specifics of the upcoming provincial budget, she stresses that British Columbia will persist in advocating for increased federal funding for infrastructure projects.
Keyphrase: British Columbia housing legislation