Summary

• More than 3,600 new homes have been delivered by municipalities, with seven of 10 municipalities exceeding their housing targets
• Two communities have made progress, with projects underway that could meet next year’s targets
• With North Saanich delivering 20% of its first-year target, the minister is considering appointing an adviser

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More people are finding homes in communities throughout the province, as seven of the 10 municipalities from the third group of the housing targets program surpassed their one-year targets.

Two communities that did not meet targets are demonstrating progress toward achieving their targets. 

“Municipalities are key partners in tackling the housing crisis, and we are grateful to see that many are leading the way and making real progress to deliver the homes needed in their communities,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “Through these thousands of new homes delivered by Group 3 municipalities, seniors, families, and young people now have more options, whether it’s through downsizing to a smaller space, adding an extra bedroom or moving into their first rental home.”

Since Aug. 1, 2024, these 10 municipalities have delivered more than 3,600 net-new homes, surpassing their overall Year 1 housing target by 143%. Since September 2023, the housing targets have resulted in more than 25,700 new homes across 30 communities.

Three of the third-group communities, which includes View Royal, Colwood, and City of Langley, have exceeded their Year 1 targets by more than 200% and are well on track to meet future year targets.

Municipalities demonstrating progress

The District of North Cowichan and City of Port Coquitlam are demonstrating progress, meeting 74% and 56% of their Year 1 targets, respectively. Both communities have projects in development and are expected to make further progress toward reaching Year 2 targets. Port Coquitlam is currently leading Group 3 in delivering below-market rentals.

As part of the Province’s work to ensure that communities stay on track, the Province will require a six-month interim report from the City of Port Coquitlam to ensure that its momentum is maintained.

A municipality with more work to do

The District of North Saanich has more work ahead, having completed 20% of its target (12 of 60 net new units), with the minister of housing and municipal affairs considering appointing an adviser. The district will have 30 days to respond to the minister in writing regarding the proposed adviser appointment.

Quotes:

Patrick Johnstone, mayor, New Westminster –

“New Westminster has long been committed to doing its part to address the regional housing crisis, and these results show what’s possible when governments and housing providers work together. I’m proud that New Westminster is saying ‘Yes’ to new homes and meeting the needs of our growing community. We also know there is more work to do, and we remain focused on solutions across the housing spectrum.”

Simon Yu, mayor, Prince George –

“The City of Prince George is very pleased that we have exceeded the current provincial housing target. Prince George is confident that together with our First Nation partners, as well as under the leadership of both provincial and federal governments, we shall continue to develop sufficient numbers of housing units, including affordable housing, to position Prince George as the industrial logistical transportation hub for all the incoming major projects for northern B.C.”

Paul Horn, mayor, Mission –

“Mission is proud to be a provincial leader in delivering new housing. Council and staff have worked hard to ensure people can find safe and affordable homes here, and exceeding our target by 50% shows that this work is paying off. Through initiatives such as fast-track approvals, master planned neighbourhoods, partnerships with non-profits and streamlined secondary suite processes, we are creating the conditions for more homes that reflect our community’s character.”

Nathan Pachal, mayor, City of Langley –

“Langley city has been working hard to ensure that our policies and processes support getting housing built in our community, as part of preparing for the arrival of the SkyTrain. As a result, we are exceeding our housing targets.”

Quick Facts:

• 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.
• Since September 2023, housing targets have resulted in more than 25,700 new homes across 30 priority municipalities in their first year of reporting, with more than 172,000 net-new homes to be delivered through the program.
• This work builds on an historic $19-billion investment, the Province has delivered over 93,600 homes in B.C. since 2017.
• 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.

Learn More:

• To learn more about the municipal housing targets and municipal progress, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/local-governments-and-housing/housing-targets
• To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

A backgrounder follows.