“The B.C. government is facing backlash from various municipalities regarding its new housing targets, as 20 more cities are now included in the list of areas requiring increased housing development. This expansion has stirred controversy in cities like Coquitlam, New Westminster, North Vancouver, and Prince George.
The Pushback from Municipalities
Mayors from some of these cities are pushing back against the province, claiming that the government is not providing enough support for their housing efforts. New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone expressed his frustration by stating, “I’m calling BS on this priority list.” He highlighted that his city is already surpassing regional growth targets in various areas, except for subsidized and supportive housing, where they need more financial assistance from the province.
In a similar vein, North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan emphasized that her city is exceeding growth targets but requires additional support to provide affordable rentals. Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart pointed out that new government regulations on housing types and density are hindering construction efforts, potentially resulting in fewer housing units than the previous year.
Perspective from the Housing Minister
Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon acknowledged the hard work done by many B.C. cities but suggested that adjustments may be necessary to meet current housing demands. He highlighted the need for aligning city plans with present-day targets, rather than relying on outdated figures from years past.
Looking Ahead
The province plans to release a progress report on the initial 10 cities on the “naughty list” and set specific targets for the additional 20 cities in June. This ongoing dialogue between municipalities and the government underscores the complexities of balancing housing needs with regulatory requirements.
In conclusion, the clash between the B.C. government and municipalities over housing targets highlights the challenges of urban development. While both parties aim to address housing shortages, finding common ground and fostering collaboration will be crucial in achieving sustainable and inclusive housing solutions for all residents.”
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