Durham shares the provincial goal of increasing housing supply. However, the More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022 (Bill 23) is concerning, said Regional Chair and CEO, John Henry.
He was addressing members of the Rptary Club of Bowmanville.
“Durham Regional Council, local area municipalities and indigenous communities were not consulted on changes to land use planning activities, development charges, conservation authorities or other items relevant to municipal governments,” said Henry.
“One of the concerns with Bill 23 is that it reduces the development charges we can recover for new infrastructure like water and sewer pipes, transit, roads and more.
“In fact, we estimate the region will have about $281 million less in revenue over five years,” said the region CEO.
He said given critical projects we are already planning for through our long-range capital plan, funds in reserve cannot absorb the cost impacts of Bill 23.
“This means that existing property taxpayers and ratepayers of Durham Region will now be asked to fund future infrastructure to support new homes in our community,” he said.
“Or, the region may have to reduce service levels,” he pointed out.
“Despite this, we’re working with the province to identify solutions; including how to work together to increase the supply of different types of housing for all residents and income levels,” Henry added.
Visit Bill 23 for more information.