Summary

The B.C. government has assigned Langford and Courtenay housing targets of 4,300 new homes over the next five years, with Langford responsible for 2,993 units and Courtenay for 1,334. These municipalities are part of a group recognized for their proactive housing initiatives, and they will need to report annually on their progress. Langford officials express confidence in meeting these targets but emphasize the need for provincial support in securing funding for essential infrastructure.

Details

The British Columbia government has set ambitious housing targets for municipalities across the province, with Langford and Courtenay being tasked to build a combined total of 4,300 new homes over the next five years. Specifically, Langford is expected to contribute 2,993 net new homes, while Courtenay's target is set at 1,334. These municipalities are part of the fourth cohort of local governments receiving housing targets, which also includes Burnaby, Coquitlam, Langley, Penticton, Pitt Meadows, Squamish, and Vernon, each with their own significant goals.

The Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs has recognized Langford, along with Burnaby and Penticton, for their proactive measures in addressing housing needs. In a statement, Langford officials expressed confidence in meeting the provincial targets but emphasized the necessity for support from higher levels of government. "The City is committed to working with the Province through this process but will require assistance from higher levels of government to secure funding for critical infrastructure, such as health care, schools, transit service, and transportation network improvements, that are necessary to support this growth," the city stated.

Councillor Kimberly Guiry highlighted Langford's commitment to housing development, noting the city's pro-housing council and efforts to streamline processes. Despite previous frustrations regarding the targets, the city is now focused on efficient and effective housing solutions. Former housing minister Ravi Kahlon remarked on the city's capacity to meet these targets, indicating that the goals align with Langford's existing housing reports.

As part of the new housing strategy, municipalities are required to report annually on their progress towards these targets, with specific metrics to measure completed net-new units. If a municipality fails to meet its goals, the Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs has the authority to appoint a special advisor to assess the situation and provide recommendations. This initiative aims to ensure that all communities in the province contribute to addressing the ongoing housing crisis.

Sources

• CHEK: https://cheknews.ca/langford-courtenay-tasked-with-building-4-3k-new-homes-in-latest-provincial-targets-1274068/