With the final study by Toronto-based Hemson Consulting Ltd. released Thursday, I’m certain there is considerable discussion occurring today regarding Winnipeg’s proposed growth tax on housing.
However, in that I submit this column earlier in the week, I had yet to see the report and can only speculate on its contents.
However, there have been a couple of opinions regarding infill housing and whether this proposed tax would impact their future.
Given the consultants don’t make policy, just recommendations, their numbers were laid out for all development, greenfield and brownfield. This resulted in those interested in infill projects stating the charges would be prohibitive to them, much like most other forms of development when taxed.
In his Aug. 29 column in the Winnipeg Free Press, Brent Bellamy said the tenuous nature of infill development could not withstand additional expenses. He made specific mention of the disincentives for infill growth caused by the city earlier this year, when massive increases to zoning and permit fees were implemented without consultation or discussion.
On the same day, the Free Press editorial board looked deeper into some of the impacts of more infill projects, including greater wear and tear on existing infrastructure. The piece asked the fundamental question: "What kind of city do we want to live in?"
To answer that question, we need a plan.
Our Winnipeg is not a plan. It’s a nice document that’s been sitting on the shelf for five years, but it’s not a plan for what kind of city Winnipeg needs to be.
I don’t like to use other cities as examples, but it’s not uncommon in Canada for the development industry and the municipal administration/elected officials to meet regularly and map out the next one, five, 10 and 20 years so everyone is on the same page and the city is moving ahead in accordance with everyone’s plans.
No surprises generally means a more efficient operation.
Winnipeg needs to grow up and out — together, at the same time. There’s plenty of need for both. Neither is the solution by itself.
However, when it comes to infill, there are many people who talk a good game and support more density, just not in their established neighbourhood. That’s why a sincere discussion needs to take place that will encourage growth, both infill development and new neighbourhoods.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association
