B.C. in talks with Ottawa on development-charge cuts and infrastructure

British Columbia is discussing infrastructure funding with Ottawa as it works on plans to lower development charges and build more homes, Housing Minister Christine Boyle says.

Boyle said municipalities should not be left to absorb the costs of roads, transit, water systems and parks when charges paid by developers are reduced. Municipalities have long argued they lack enough money to fund that infrastructure.

A housing partnership announced in June would see the federal and B.C. governments match funding over 10 years, to a combined maximum of $3.2 billion, to reduce development charges for multi-unit housing by as much as 50 per cent in priority communities.

The minister said the province is working on a B.C.-specific approach and could announce final details in the fall. She did not say how much money senior governments might provide or identify the high-growth areas that could be included.

Boyle also said the government expects to release fall details of a plan to convert more than 2,200 unsold condominiums into affordable homes. The proposal had drawn criticism as a bailout for developers, and she said discussions are continuing.

The Union of British Columbia Municipalities, which has sought more infrastructure funding, is scheduled to hold its annual convention in Vancouver from Sept. 14 to 18.