New legislation on development finance

The Province has introduced legislation that will substantially change the framework used by local governments to pay for infrastructure and community amenities related to new development. The legislation is largely in alignment with UBCM resolutions and policy, but also creates a funding gap for affordable housing.

Bill 46: Housing Statutes (Development Financing) Amendment Act expands the list of what development cost charges can be spent on, and establishes a legislative framework for community amenity contributions—something local governments have been asking for. However, the legislation also removes the ability for local governments to continue funding affordable housing through community amenity contributions.

Province introduces legislation on homeless encampments

On November 6, the Province of B.C introduced legislation under Bill 45, Miscellaneous Statutes Amendment Act, that will apply to local governments who seek court injunctions to remove or regulate homeless encampments. These amendments will have significant impacts on local governments and their ability to address encampments in their communities.

Lower Mainland LGA’s CivX event

The Lower Mainland Local Government Association is hosting its annual CivX event in partnership with CivicInfo BC November 29-30, 2023. The free, online event showcases post-secondary partnerships and successes around local government learning.