As we count down—just two weeks and three days left—until HAVAN’s 50th anniversary celebration, we’ve been digging in our archives and discovered an advertisement from 1974 promoting a government program promoting the construction of multiplex homes in support of rental housing.
Although today’s economic climate and regulatory environment differ significantly (Just Borrow and Build would generate some interesting comments even with current interest rates being lower than in 1974), the recognition of multiplex housing as a viable archetype for homes persists. This begs the question: why do we face resistance to this form of housing today?
PUSHBACK AND PROGRESS
They say the devil is in the details, and as the details of the BC Builds program are still being worked out, pushback remains.
As Diana highlighted in the latest Government Relations Update (GRU), even though many municipalities have either completed or are working on legislative changes to comply with provincially mandated bylaws, such as Bill 44 (Small Scale Multi-Unit Housing) and Bill 47 (Transit Oriented Areas), challenges remain.
As noted last week, Coquitlam sent a letter to the Province asking for a year-long extension; Richmond is asking for an extension to allow for engagement on exempting Steveston from multiplex legislation; and Vancouver is accused by critics of trying to protect the exclusive Shaughnessy neighbourhood from increased density by way of heritage conservation.
IDEAS EXCHANGE
Over the past 50 years, HAVAN has undergone several name changes, but our mission has remained constant: To support a collaborative, and innovative, homebuilding industry. And today, the urgency to expedite homebuilding is greater than ever.
One collaborative initiative taking root locally to help share information and ideas is HAVAN’s podcast, Measure Twice, Cut Once. Featuring a diverse range of industry leading guests, the podcast provides valuable insights for both consumers and industry professionals as experts share their knowledge on building high-performance homes and addressing solutions for our current housing crisis.
Housing Minister, Ravi Kahlon was featured back in Season 6 with HAVAN member Jake Fry of Smallworks to discuss the launch of the Housing Supply Act. And in a recent episode, Sara Goldvine of BC Housing emphasized the critical role of housing as a system. She highlighted that shortages in one segment affect the entire housing continuum and discussed innovative solutions like the Secondary Suite Initiative program, which helps single-family homeowners contribute to increasing housing supply within their communities.
At the National Level, last week CHBA CEO Kevin Lee was invited to testify before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (HUMA). Lee provided a comprehensive overview of the housing continuum and how the deterioration of market-rate housing affordability has put pressure on both the rental and social housing components of the continuum.
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
As HAVAN celebrates its 50th anniversary, we reflect on the power of connections, advocacy, and education—our core pillars. The 1974 advertisement reminds us that while we can learn from the past, we must also adapt to new challenges in today’s world, and that a collective voice is imperative at all levels of government.
The upcoming anniversary party on Thursday, June 13, from 6 pm to 10 pm, at Brian Jessel BMW is a golden opportunity to connect with industry veterans and newcomers alike. With an estimated attendance of over 400 people, this event promises rich networking opportunities and a chance to delve into our history. Don’t miss out—sign up, network, and join us in celebrating HAVAN50. Registration details.
HAVAN continues to work with CHBA BC and CHBA to advocate for all levels of government to work together to address the challenges of the housing industry including zoning restrictions, density limits, and NIMBYism.
Looking to stay up-to-date on Metro Vancouver’s residential housing industry? Sign up for Ron’s weekly Monday Morning Briefing and other HAVAN emails here.
QUICK BITES …
- How developers are adapting designs to a shift in Vancouver renter trends.
- How changing an old rule about stairs could unlock a lot of new housing.
- BC government launches new digital building permitting tool for cities.
- A “likely” concrete strike (yes, again) has been averted for at least a few weeks after all parties agree to mediation. CEO Ron Rapp chatted with CKNW’s Jas Johal about the potential implications.
