Kimberley city council is asking residents for feedback on proposed changes to zoning bylaws that would support the construction of more homes in the community.
City officials said the changes would allow for increased diversification of housing types, forms and sizes throughout the community.
“The cost of construction is the cost of construction. If we want to encourage developers to build more affordable housing, we have to look at ways of making it less expensive to build,” said Mayor Don McCormick.
Kimberley staff said the proposed bylaw amendments would allow the creation of smaller lots, with a greater amount of coverage and increased height restrictions.
“These are all things that lead to more economic construction on the part of the developer,” said McCormick. “We, as a municipality, don’t build houses, but we do try to provide the best environment for that investment.”
The proposed changes will allow developers to build single, duplex and multi-unit homes with up to six units. City officials said the possibility of up to 10-unit buildings is included, with the catch that an affordable housing agreement would be needed.
Height restrictions for both multi-unit residential and commercial buildings will also be raised to 12 metres (39.4 feet), should the bylaw be adopted.
“This is targeted at pointing builders and developers in the direction that we need to go with respect to multi-unit housing, apartment-style housing, and more rental housing.”
Following a second reading of the bylaw, a public hearing will be held prior to council’s consideration for the bylaw’s final approval.
An online engagement page has been launched, and residents are being asked to provide feedback.
You can ask questions and provide feedback through the link below.
More: Housing Availability and Affordability Zoning Amendment (City of Kimberley)