NDP MLAs say funding will help local governments to deliver housing faster in Burnaby
BURNABY – New Democrat MLAs Anne Kang, Katrina Chen, Janet Routledge and Raj Chouhan say local government will receive funding that will help them implement new provincial legislation to build more homes for people faster.
“Our commitment to progressive housing solutions is unwavering,” says Janet Routledge, MLA for Burnaby North. “We recognize the urgency for more housing, and this funding ensures that Burnaby can pave the way for a more efficient development approvals process that aligns with our community’s unique needs.
“As we navigate the challenges posed by the housing crisis, we are committed to facilitating faster home construction,” says Anne Kang, MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake. “This financial support will empower local governments, such as the City of Burnaby, efficiently approve housing projects, contributing to the delivery of homes that our community needs.”
The City of Burnaby is receiving $1,363,444 and the Metro Vancouver Regional District is receiving $268,001 from the province.
“We understand that housing is at the core of community well-being across the province,” says Katrina Chen, MLA for Burnaby-Lougheed. “This funding is helpful for Burnaby and other municipalities, enabling them to efficiently update housing reports, bylaws and community plans.”
“In response to the pressing need for more homes, our government is taking concrete steps to support local governments deliver more homes faster,” says Raj Chouhan, MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds. “With this funding, municipalities like Burnaby will be able to expedite housing approvals and deliver more homes for people.”
In response to the new provincial housing legislation passed in 2023, New Democrats are providing $51 million to 188 local governments to help them meet the new requirements.
This money will be utilized by local governments to improve planning, development and reporting processes, hire new staff and consultants and help governing bodies become more efficient at approving housing. Smaller municipalities will especially benefit from this funding as they have fewer resources to make changes.
This funding is part of the historic $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. Government. Since 2017, more than 77,000 homes have been delivered or are underway across the province.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30163