��������

VICTORIA – The Government of B.C. is touting seven of the 10 municipalities from the third group of the housing targets program have surpassed their one-year targets.

Two communities that didn’t meet targets are demonstrating progress, a release reads, and one community is facing an uphill battle.

Since Aug. 1, 2024, the 10 municipalities have delivered more than 3,600 net-new homes, surpassing their overall year one housing target by 143 per cent.

Since September 2023, the housing targets have resulted in more than 25,700 new homes across 30 communities, the release adds.

Three of the third-group communities, which includes View Royal, Colwood, and City of Langley, have exceeded their year one targets by more than 200 per cent and are well on track to meet future year targets.

The District of North Cowichan and City of Port Coquitlam are showing progress, meeting 74 per cent and 56 per cent of their targets, respectively.

“Both communities have projects in development and are expected to make further progress toward reaching Year 2 targets,” the release notes. “Port Coquitlam is currently leading Group 3 in delivering below-market rentals.”

To ensure the communities stay on track, the province will require a six-month interim report from the City of Port Coquitlam to ensure its momentum is maintained.

The District of North Saanich has more work ahead, having completed 20 per cent of its target (12 of 60 net new units).

As a result, the minister of housing and municipal affairs is considering appointing an adviser. The district will have 30 days to respond to the minister in writing regarding the proposed adviser appointment.

Housing targets encourage municipalities to streamline building approvals, leverage partnerships and plan for more diverse housing options, such as purpose-built rental, multi-bedroom, and below-market homes, the province notes.

Through the third intake of the Local Government Development Approvals Program, opening in early 2026, $9 million will be invested to support local governments in streamlining and improving their development approval processes.