In a CTV News report on Calgary’s upcoming rezoning hearing, Rev. Kersi Bird, co-chair of the Calgary Alliance for the Common Good’s Affordable Housing team, reaffirmed support for expanding housing options.

“Blanket rezoning has had some success on those fronts,” she said.

But Bird acknowledged the policy has been contentious and said the upcoming hearing will be an important opportunity for public input.

She emphasized that if council does choose to repeal the bylaw, it must have a plan ready to replace it.

“We would like to see councillors commit to making a solid plan to replace it, a plan that involves continuing options for housing, that improves affordability, but also continues to make us eligible to unlock some of the federal housing funding.”

Bird said maintaining momentum on housing is critical as affordability challenges continue to affect a wide range of residents.

“It’s absolutely critical that we continue to move forward, not backwards on the housing file.”

She added that regardless of council’s decision, demand for housing will remain.

“No matter that happens, the morning after that vote, people are still going to need a place to live.”

In a recent report by CTV News, the upcoming public hearing on the potential repeal of Calgary’s citywide rezoning is described as a pivotal moment for the city’s housing future. The report highlights both the policy’s role in increasing housing supply and the ongoing debate surrounding it.

The hearing is expected to draw significant public participation, reflecting the urgency and impact of decisions that will shape Calgary’s housing landscape.

 

🔗 Read and watch the full CTV News report here.