NDP MLAs say funding will help local governments to deliver housing faster in Richmond

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RICHMOND – New Democrat MLAs Kelly Greene, Aman Singh and Henry Yao say local government will receive funding that will help them implement new provincial legislation to build more homes for people faster.

“The immediate demand for more homes calls for decisive action, and our collaboration with local governments exemplifies our commitment to fast-tracking housing solutions,” says Aman Singh, MLA for Richmond-Queensborough. “This funding will enable the City of Richmond to help address the urgent housing needs of our community.”

“Addressing the urgent need for more homes is paramount, and our collaboration with local governments underscores our commitment to expedite housing solutions,” says Henry Yao, MLA for Richmond South Centre. “Our decision to provide upfront funding ensures the City of Richmond can promptly support the construction of much-needed housing.”

The City of Richmond is receiving $1,145,893 and the Metro Vancouver Regional District is receiving $268,001 from the province.

“Housing is a fundamental pillar of a person’s well-being and a community’s health,” says Kelly Greene, MLA for Richmond-Steveston. “Local governments, like Richmond, are receiving support from the provincial government as we work together to build diverse housing choices that will meet people’s needs.”

In response to the new provincial housing legislation passed in 2023, the New Democrat government are providing $51 million to 188 local governments to help them meet the new requirements.

This money will be used to improve planning, development and reporting processes, hire new staff and consultants and help governing bodies become more efficient at approving housing. Smaller municipalities will especially benefit from this funding as they have fewer resources to make changes.

This funding is part of the historic $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. Government. Since 2017, more than 77,000 homes have been delivered or are underway across B.C.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30163