During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the pressing issue of housing affordability, with community members and officials expressing concerns about the current housing crisis and the need for increased supply. A resident shared their personal struggles with housing costs in the city, emphasizing the importance of safety and community ties, while advocating for the development of cottage clusters and flag lots as potential solutions.

Max Dehall, a local construction company owner, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that nearly half of his subcontractors live outside the city due to unaffordable housing. He stressed the challenges faced by construction workers who cannot afford to live in the areas where they work, calling for measures to enhance housing affordability.

The council addressed the ongoing delays in implementing anti-displacement strategies, which have been a point of contention in previous discussions. Staff from the planning and urban design department confirmed that a work session focused on these strategies is scheduled for the end of the month, with a commitment to provide zoning and regulatory options by year-end.

Council members expressed a desire to support the proposed housing developments but acknowledged the need for a comprehensive anti-displacement framework to be in place first. They discussed the potential complications of passing zoning changes without these strategies, which could necessitate further adjustments down the line.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that while there is strong support for the proposed housing initiatives, further progress on anti-displacement measures is essential before moving forward. The council remains committed to addressing the housing crisis while ensuring that vulnerable communities are protected from displacement.