Eby applauds housing efforts

The City of Kelowna was recognized by Premier David Eby for its work to implement provincially legislated zoning changes and encourage the development of new homes.

Eby spoke at the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention in Vancouver on Thursday in what is expected to be his final address before the campaign begins.

He applauded local governments for their efforts to implement the suite of housing changes that has been announced by the province over the past year and a half.

“I’d like to recognize Kelowna in this regard, and Mayor Tom [Dyas] and his team in that city,” Eby said.

“They were the first to implement the zoning changes that we’re working on with all of you. As a result, and certainly due in large part to the team in Kelowna, they have had record housing starts in their community.”

The premier said rents are coming down in Kelowna, and the city also identified three public properties that could be used to help address homelessness.

“It is remarkable work that is happening in Kelowna, and I’d like to thank you and your team for that work,” Eby said.

Last year, the provincial government introduced a number of sweeping changes intended to spur housing development, increase density in certain areas and restrict short-term rentals.

Eby said 90 per cent of communities across the province have made the zoning changes necessary to allow for infill development and greater density.

A number of local governments have expressed concern that they require provincial funding for the infrastructure expansions or upgrades needed to support more housing and a larger population.

“I know it's been challenging for communities. We've provided some support to help get you there, but I know it's been a lot of heavy lifting — and I want to recognize that and say thank you for your support in getting this done,” he said.

Dyas told Castanet in an interview earlier this week that over the last year and a half, the city has advanced more than 4,000 development permits for units to be built.

"We have our housing targets that were established by the province, and we are above what our target levels are for the province, so we will continue to advance those in a variety of housing options."

Eby said B.C. has added more homes per capita than any other province over the last seven years, and is building four times more rental housing than Ontario.

“While rents across Canada are going up, our rents provincially are finally, finally starting to come down,” Eby said, to applause.

He said rents are down six per cent this year.

“Now these are down from record highs,” he said, adding people are still struggling.

“But this is an indication that what we're doing is working, and we can’t stop now.”