A coalition of B.C. housing organizations is urging the provincial government to create a permanent housing policy roundtable. These groups, including the BC Real Estate Association and the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, argue that recent government initiatives to accelerate home construction have led to disarray and a lack of effective consultation, potentially increasing costs for developers and impacting communities.
Several prominent housing groups in British Columbia have publicly stated their desire for the provincial government to establish a dedicated housing policy roundtable. This initiative aims to foster a more collaborative approach to developing and implementing housing strategies. The organizations involved believe that such a forum is crucial for creating effective housing policies that address the complex challenges of the ongoing housing crisis.
Groups like the BC Real Estate Association (BCREA) and the Aboriginal Housing Management Association have expressed concerns that the province's recent surge in housing legislation, while intended to boost construction, has inadvertently created significant disruption. Jasroop Gosal, BCREA's government relations manager, noted that developers could offer valuable insights into the cost implications of policy changes, which could help mitigate rising expenses. Trevor Hargreaves, also from BCREA, described the legislative changes as an "avalanche" that has resulted in "a lot of chaos."
The envisioned roundtable would serve as a platform for approximately 15 to 20 representatives from across the housing sector. This would include private and non-profit developers, municipalities, and other key stakeholders. The goal is to ensure that the provincial government consults with these essential voices when identifying problems and formulating solutions to the housing crisis. Delegates at the recent Union of B.C. Municipalities convention have also echoed the call for such a permanent body.
Proponents of the roundtable argue that increased consultation could lead to more efficient and cost-effective housing solutions. By involving a wider range of expertise and perspectives, the government could develop policies that are better aligned with the needs of communities and the realities of the construction industry. This collaborative approach is seen as a way to move beyond the current "chaos" and build housing that truly serves the province.