Coquitlam requests extension for density bonus charges until June 2028

After several years of efforts to comply with new legislation from the provincial government. Coquitlam city council will send a letter to B.C.'s housing minister to ask for a three-year extension to use density bonuses until June 30, 2028.

The burgeoning downtown core of Coquitlam City Centre

The City of Coquitlam has a lot on the line when it comes to a change in how density bonus charges are calculated and collected in transit oriented areas. According to reports from Planning staff, the city currently has several in-stream applications that involve density bonuses, as well as community amenity contributions (CAC) and the delivery of rental or affordable housing, that represent up to $500 million of revenue for community amenities and about 12,000 rental units, of which approximately 17% will charge below market rates.

Although its been frustrating to landowners and developers that new development applications in Coquitlam's TOA's have been stalled since the province introduced the new legislation - and now may even face further delays while as the City reverts to the old system- it's important to recognize that Coquitlam's original and preferred approach was among the most effective in Metro Vancouver at facilitating the actual delivery of projects, so perhaps Mayor and Council have some valid concerns about this top down approach from the province.

Hopefully further policy updates from both in 2025 bring about a reconciliation of concerns between the municipality and the province, and attention and focus can turn to what ultimately matters- he delivery of housing.