British Columbia Housing Groups Call for Permanent Provincial Roundtable

A coalition of housing groups, including the BC Real Estate Association and the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, is urging the British Columbia government to establish a permanent Housing Policy Roundtable to address the challenges caused by recent housing legislation. These groups argue that the province's aggressive push to build more homes, including mandates requiring local governments to allow multi-unit housing on lots formerly zoned for single-family homes, has created significant chaos and dissatisfaction within communities. The roundtable would bring together about 15 to 20 representatives from across the housing spectrum, including private and non-profit developers, municipalities, and provincial officials, to foster collaborative and evidence-based policy-making that better reflects community needs. The Union of BC Municipalities has passed a resolution supporting the roundtable, highlighting widespread support among local governments and stakeholders. Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West expressed concerns about increased density in neighborhoods not designed for it, emphasizing the need for balanced approaches. Stakeholders are hopeful that the new Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, Christine Boyle, will act promptly to implement the roundtable and improve housing policy coordination in BC.