Housing Affordability and Responsible Growth

Rental prices are influenced by many factors, but supply and demand is an important one. Powell River has experienced a rental shortage for many years, which has contributed to steadily rising rental costs. More recent construction, including subdivisions, individual homes and multiplexes, has increased the overall housing supply, and we are beginning to see some relief. However, there is still more work to be done.

The City can help by reviewing its permitting process to identify unnecessary delays and complications. It should also consider greater flexibility in zoning where residential and commercial uses can reasonably coexist, while making it easier to build tiny homes, carriage homes, manufactured homes and other smaller housing options. These forms of housing must still meet appropriate safety and servicing standards, but City rules should not create unnecessary obstacles to responsible development.

Housing prices are harder for a municipality to influence directly. However, redevelopment of the former mill site could generate new commercial and industrial tax revenue, broadening the tax base and reducing the burden placed on homeowners. If the City can bring its finances into better balance, a stronger tax base could help limit future property-tax increases and make the ongoing cost of home ownership more manageable.