Whereas communities across British Columbia face acute challenges around housing affordability, undermining the well being of individuals, families and communities; And whereas the legislative framework available for local governments currently does not permit a municipality to have a mandatory inclusionary housing bylaw if it chooses to pursue such as bylaw: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia make the legislative changes required to permit a municipality to adopt a mandatory inclusionary housing bylaw.
Ministry of Housing The Province of British Columbia Province is committed to supporting local governments in their efforts to bring affordable housing to all communities in BC. Local governments currently have the power to secure affordable housing by using density benefits for amenities, affordable housing, and special needs housing. Sections 482 and 483 of the Local Government Act provide local governments with the authority to zone for amenities and affordable housing, and to enter into housing agreements with owners who provide their consent. Density bonus zoning can be an effective tool in promoting affordable housing as zoning bylaws can specify affordability outcomes or design features that would be required to allow additional density. In 2018, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs MUNI launched the Development Approvals Process Review DAPR, with the aim of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of local government development approvals. Extensive local government and stakeholder engagement produced a comprehensive list of informed ideas for improving the system that was published in a stakeholder report. As part of ongoing DAPR work, MUNI is exploring approaches related to Official Community Plans, zoning, and development finance. This includes looking more closely at tools to support the delivery of more diverse and affordable housing, such as inclusionary zoning, in line with feedback from local governments and other housing stakeholders. stakeholder report URL: https:www2.gov.bc.caassetsgovbritish-columbians-our-governmentslocal-go…