The Region of Durham has expressed concern over the Doug Ford government’s Bill 23, calling for further dialogue.
“While we welcome potential changes to help streamline processes—while increasing housing availability, rental and affordable housing—there are concerns with provincial Bill 23 (More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022),” said John Henry, Durham Region Chair and Chief Executive Officer.
He pointed out that the bill has proposed numerous changes to the Planning Act and Development Charges Act that, if passed, will significantly impact how municipal governments plan for, and recover the costs associated with growth.
“It has unintended consequences and widespread implications that impact all Ontarians economically, socially and environmentally,” said Henry in a statement.
“We believe that growth should pay for growth. Development charges have traditionally been collected to fund large infrastructure projects required for new builds. Without them, municipalities are forced to cover the costs through increased property taxes and water and sewer rates—a burden on existing residents and businesses,” he pointed out.
“We welcome growth. It strengthens our communities and we have been planning for it in a thoughtful, strategic manner. We have a vision for transit-oriented development, with public transit at the heart of future communities. We need to provide all services for our communities as cost-effectively as possible, so that they can grow and thrive,” said Henry.
“We encourage the province to engage in further dialogue with municipalities and residents to help ensure the environment—and the health and safety of all Ontarians—remains at the forefront,” he added.
Strange picture of those white homes. It’s a picture of Pinoteau Village in Mont Tremblant Quebec. Whats that got to do with Bill 23 in Ontario?