TRREB has weighed in with more solutions to support housing supply and affordability in key areas of our region.
Lower Development Charges in York Region
TRREB responded to York Region Council’s announced proposed development charge rate changes, which include minor decreases for residential units.
We welcome any reduction in development charges, which can add over 20 per cent to the purchase price of a new home, as a positive step toward easing cost pressures. However, our submission emphasized that these adjustments are insufficient to impact the market meaningfully.
To accelerate housing supply and improve affordability, deeper reductions are essential, particularly for missing middle multiplex housing and large apartment units, where high costs continue to hinder the feasibility of much-needed rental and higher-density projects.
Drawing on our market data, we highlighted that more substantial development charge relief would encourage faster construction, increase diverse housing options, and better align with provincial goals to address the housing supply crisis.
Zoning By-law Review in Whitchurch-Stouffville
TRREB also provided input to the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville’s comprehensive zoning by-law review. We strongly encouraged measures to promote gentle density, including allowing multiplexes (fourplexes and sixplexes) as of right in appropriate zones.
Additional recommendations include reducing or removing development charges from multiplex housing to make these housing types more viable. We’re also calling for lower parking requirements around major transit stations to support transit-oriented communities and reduce barriers to building more homes.
TRREB remains dedicated to collaborating with York Region, the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville, and other stakeholders to advance policies that foster sustainable growth, predictable development processes, and a more accessible and attainable housing market for residents.
We will continue to monitor these files closely and engage with municipal and regional leaders to advocate for bold actions that prioritize housing supply and affordability. We encourage our Members and the public to stay informed and involved as these important discussions evolve.
Read our York Region and Stouffville submissions for more details.