As someone who follows politics from the local to federal level, I do know the major difference between the Victoria and Langford mayor and councils’ stands on affordable housing that is affordable for both families and the rate payers. Langford’s mayor and council are big on backbone when it comes to standing up to the developers. Out of every 10 houses built at least one must be designated affordable for families with an annual income of up to $50,000.
If the builders don’t want go along with that than they don’t get a permit to build in Langford, it’s as simple as that. It sure doesn’t seem to deter many builders though, considering how many years Langford has been the fastest growing city on the Island. I have also seen lots of development in the over 10 years I lived there. I would still be living there if not for circumstances beyond my control.
Victoria’s mayor and council on the other hand are weak and spineless against developers’ blackmail. All the developers need to do is tell Mayor Lisa Helps and council such regulation would discourage building houses in Victoria and they swiftly start waving the white flag. The developers will build housing in Victoria for the same reason they build in Langford – there is a market for housing here.
Victoria’s city council has a lot to learn from Langford’s council about affordable housing.
Andre Mollon
Victoria
