10. The New Housing Supply Act

Like the show? Send me a text (if you don't like it, shhh ;) In this episode of the 'Keeping it Real' podcast, Jacquie McCarnan delves into the impactful new British Columbia Housing Supply Act set to eliminate all single-family zoning in the province. Scheduled to take effect on June 30, 2023, this groundbreaking legislation opens the door for property owners in municipalities with over 5,000 residents to build up to six units on their single-family lots. Jacquie breaks down the significant changes, including the shift of zoning authority from municipalities to the province, the removal of public input on density applications, and the potential for developers to swiftly build without municipal approval. She discusses the challenges this poses for communities like North and West Vancouver, emphasizing the need for infrastructure and the potential consequences on hospitals, police, and other essential services. In addition, Jacquie touches on the requirement for municipalities to produce 20-year housing needs reports, the relaxed restrictions on building heights near transit exchanges, and the shift in responsibility for infrastructure funding from developers to the public. Tune in now! Act link: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/bills/billsprevious/3rd42nd:gov43-1 Plunge Wellness: https://plungewellness.ca/ Malcolm Gladwell books: https://www.gladwellbooks.com/ What was covered: (01:27) Changes in the zoning process, the elimination of public input, and the implications for developers. (03:49) Transfer of zoning authority, impact on municipalities, approval process changes, and the shift in responsibility for infrastructure and amenities. (08:29) Challenges and concerns about the affordability of purpose-based rental housing. (10:34) The consequences, including the need for expanded hospital facilities and a larger policing presence due to population growth. (14:19) Speculation on the provincial government's approach to infrastructure and challenges in accommodating the increasing immigrant population. (15:27) Listener feedback on the new policy's impact, promotion of a local business (Plunge Wellness), and a recommendation for Malcolm Gladwell's books. (15:27) Listener feedback on the new policy's impact, promotion of a local business (Plunge Wellness), and a recommendation for Malcolm Gladwell's books.