The Ongoing Debate Over Calgary’s Blanket Rezoning and Housing Accelerator Fund

In Calgary, a pivotal discussion is unfolding over the city’s blanket rezoning policy, a matter that intertwines with over $129 million in federal funding from the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). The implications of council’s decision could potentially reshape Calgary’s housing landscape and impact the delivery of thousands of anticipated homes.

What is the Housing Accelerator Fund?

The Housing Accelerator Fund aims to alleviate Canada’s housing crisis by facilitating the construction of 112,000 new homes nationwide by 2028, with a long-term goal of up to 750,000 homes over the next decade. To date, 241 communities have committed to the initiative, securing a total of $4.4 billion in funding. Calgary is a significant player in this endeavor, allocated $251.3 million, of which it has already received $121.8 million.

However, the delivery of these funds is now clouded by uncertainty following council’s proposal to repeal the controversial blanket rezoning initiative. This policy permits a greater diversity of housing types, such as townhomes and six-plexes, in neighborhoods that previously allowed only single-family homes.

The Council’s Dilemma

This debate gained momentum during the council’s executive committee meeting on November 17, where a motion to repeal the blanket rezoning policy was approved with a vote of 13-2. This dramatic step represents a growing sentiment among some city councillors who argue that blanket rezoning has faced substantial public backlash and concerns regarding neighborhood character and density.

While the City of Calgary acknowledges meeting its commitments under the HAF agreement, recent communications from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) indicated that future payments were being reconsidered. Leonard Catling, a CMHC spokesperson, clarified that while funding had not been officially paused, its status hangs in the balance as the council prepares for its upcoming debate.

The Stakes of Housing Development

Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas has publicly asserted that the city has "far outperformed" the housing metrics set by the federal government, claiming a successful track record in meeting its HAF targets. A statement detailed that more than 44,276 housing units had been incentivized by the city well ahead of schedule. Farkas, advocating for a targeted and community-informed approach, expressed unwavering support for the repeal of blanket rezoning, indicating that the city should prioritize localized solutions that resonate with resident concerns.

Despite these reassurances from the mayor, the imminent risk of losing federal funding looms large. Catling emphasized that municipalities must honor their commitments to ensure access to HAF financing. The complex interplay of zoning policy and funding has left many stakeholders wondering if the council is willing to risk essential funding for the sake of addressing public sentiment regarding housing developments.

Community Response and Future Prospects

The conversation surrounding blanket rezoning continues to elicit strong reactions from Calgary residents. Councillor Dan McLean, who campaigned on eliminating the policy, noted the overwhelming negative sentiment towards it among constituents. "Calgarians overwhelmingly hate it," he stated, reinforcing that his commitment to repeal the policy remains intact regardless of potential funding implications.

With council set to revisit this topic in December, the future of Calgary’s housing strategy and its alignment with federal funding objectives remains contentious. The council’s decision could not only affect immediate housing initiatives but also shape long-term urban planning and community development in Calgary.

Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for Calgary’s Housing Policy

As Calgary stands at this critical juncture, the unfolding debate over blanket rezoning and the Housing Accelerator Fund encapsulates broader themes emerging across Canadian urban centers. Balancing community desires with the pressing need for diversified housing solutions will require proactive dialogue, informed policymaking, and commitment from all levels of government. With crucial discussions on the horizon, Calgary’s approach to housing policy could serve as a pivotal case study for cities facing similar dilemmas. The outcomes promise to have lasting implications for the city’s growth and the well-being of its residents.