The implications of Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, introduced by the provincial government in the fall of 2022, continue to shape the landscape of development charges in our local community.
Aaron Stewardson, Manager of Development Services and Chief Building Official at the Municipality of Bluewater, said that development charges were meant to protect residents from tax hikes to pay for development,
The reduction in fees could potentially make funding for services such as waterlines, water treatment, and other crucial developments challenging to secure.
The Municipality of Bluewater had previously been restricted under Bill 23 to 80% of their prior charges, and have recently increased that to 85%, which is still a notable shortfall.
That being said, Stewardson noted that Bluewater’s shorter history of development charge implementation makes it difficult to precisely measure the impact on attracting new developments,
Furthermore, Stewardson said that council voiced apprehension that the changes might delay infrastructure growth and necessitate alternative funding sources, potentially affecting the tax base.
The restriction on development charges will likely impact infrastructure projects in the near future, says Stewardson,
Despite the challenges, Bluewater remains committed to growth and affordable housing initiatives. Stewardson outlined plans to incentivize more builds and contribute to the creation of affordable housing units. The community has implemented zoning amendments to allow secondary units in key settlement areas, aiming to enhance affordability and promote sustainable development.
As this landscape evolves, the municipality will need to find innovative solutions to ensure growth while maintaining the infrastructure and services that support their communities’ wellbeing.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
