Calgary City Council New Housing Plan

Calgary city council voted 12-3 in favor of a new housing plan after a three-day committee meeting where 162 residents expressed their concerns about the city's housing crisis. The plan, which includes various changes, aims to address the shortage of affordable housing in the city.

The key points of the plan include an incentive program to create new secondary suites, the sale of city land for new housing units, and the introduction of new zoning rules allowing row houses and duplexes throughout the city. The goal is to increase both market and non-market housing to meet the demand and improve affordability.

Ward 8 Coun. Courtney Walcott expressed that this vote represents permission to take action and address the housing crisis.

The plan also includes amendments to identify land for prefabricated housing to help families experiencing homelessness and a $25 million investment in post-secondary student housing.

The city decided to take swift action after a significant increase in housing prices, making it difficult for many to find suitable housing options. A Housing Needs Assessment report revealed that one in five households in Calgary struggled to afford housing in 2021. This issue has likely worsened in 2023.

While some council members support the plan, others, like Ward 13 Coun. Dan McLean, have concerns about the blanket upzoning of all areas of the city. They believe this approach may limit public input and want more debate on the matter.

To secure federal funding, the city needs to legalize new zoning designations that promote housing diversity, such as mid-rise apartments, duplexes, and row houses.

The housing strategy will require funding allocated in the upcoming November budget debate and bylaw amendments in the following year, involving public hearings. According to administration officials, the strategy will cost Calgarians a total of $57.5 million in one-time costs, $27 million in annual costs, and $10 million in capital costs per year.