Reiterating comments…

Reiterating comments previously made that I wholeheartedly support -
While the intent of the Bill - to create more housing - is laudable, there is nothing in the bill that guarantees that additional housing will be built. The Bill is in large part premised on the fact that if costs are reduced and timelines to decision advanced, that this will result in more construction, but it does not address other realities in the complex world of development. Developers deal with an array of issues that impact decisions to advance to development, including interest rates, financing, access to construction supplies and labour. There is nothing in the Bill compelling a developer to advance an approval to construction or to pass forward any cost savings to consumers; developers sell housing at the price that the market will bear. In addition, the revenue loss to the City would dramatically impact the City's financial position and ability to provide infrastructure necessary to support the significant growth in population; as a result, the Bill may have the effect of slowing housing supply, counter to Provincial objectives. In addition, there is nothing in the Bill to address the issue of affordability within the market. It is questionable if the Bill will result in the increased level of development envisioned, but the effects of the Bill on community infrastructure, parks, and affordable housing are certain and would have significant impacts on the livability of the City.