PORT COQUITLAM, BC - July 12, 2023... Port Coquitlam is taking steps to introduce the first update to its Development Cost Charges in 30 years while keeping fees below average in the region.
Following extensive research and consultation, Port Coquitlam Council gave the first three readings last night to bylaws that will update the City's Development Cost Charges (DCCs), which are collected from developers to pay for growth-related infrastructure. This round of bylaw amendments includes water, sewer, drainage and road infrastructure DCCs. Parks DCCs are still under review and will come forward at a future Council meeting.
"We've spent considerable time updating our Development Cost Charges, working hard to make sure that development and growth pays its fair share and that the burden of infrastructure costs is not placed on our taxpayers and residents," Mayor Brad West said. "Given that 85 per cent of our new development includes housing, up-to-date DCCs are critical to ensuring sustainable services and amenities as we work to meet the current and future housing needs of our community. I'm proud of the work our staff have done to support responsible development while making sure Port Coquitlam remains an attractive place to invest, build and do business."
Replacing bylaws adopted in 1993, the new DCCs will provide a stable source of funding for growth-related infrastructure, reducing pressure on taxpayers and reserve accounts. Even with the proposed increase, Port Coquitlam's DCC rates will remain below average in Metro Vancouver.
The proposed DCC bylaws will now be sent to the B.C. Ministry of Communities for review and approval by the Inspector of Municipalities.
Following approval, the bylaws will return to Council for adoption and the new DCCs will come into effect. The anticipated timing is late September or October of this year.
The City worked with consultants Urban Systems for its DCC review process, which began in late 2021 and included growth estimates, development trends, detailed cost estimating and a review of best practices and rates across the region.
In alignment with B.C. government best practices, consultation including a dedicated webpage (portcoquitlam.ca/dcc) and brochure, direct communication with individual developers and industry groups such as the Urban Development Institute, a virtual information session with question period, and a feedback opportunity.
"Providing infrastructure to support new development is an important part of our work to meet our housing targets," said Cllr. Glenn Pollock, Council's designate on housing matters. "Updating DCCs is one of the tools cities can use to ensure their community is ready for new housing developments to come."
Information on the DCC update can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/dcc. To read about Port Coquitlam's housing activities, visit portcoquitlam.ca/housing.
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Media Contact
Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email [email protected]