The Community Association of Oak Bay (CAOB) hosted a public forum on March 5 to discuss the need for more housing in the district.
"There’s no more urgent topic in Oak Bay right now than determining the best way to provide ... more diverse and affordable housing our community both wants and needs," the CAOB said in a release.
The event featured a presentation from Patricia Dijak, the chair of the CAOB’s working group on housing and the environment, who emphasized how close collaboration between the provincial and municipal levels of government and the strong and active the engagement of Oak Bay residents are needed to build more affordable housing in a way that enhances the area's natural assets, promotes community health and gives residents a meaningful role in shaping their neighbourhoods.
This was the second housing forum the CAOB has hosted. Last year, a discussion between Oak Bay Mayor Kevin Murdoch and B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon drew almost 160 people. Murdoch was again in attendance this year, along with Oak Bay councillors Lesley Watson and Andrew Appleton and some 40 residents.
A question-and-answer period followed Dijak's presentation, with several residents expressing concerns about the provincial housing legislation that came into effect in 2024 that allows developers to construct three or four units on any lot previously restricted to single-detached or duplex use.
"We don't exist in the constitution as a level of government. We only exist in the provincial legislation," said Murdoch, in response to a question about whether Oak Bay has to adhere to provincial housing mandates. "Ultimately, they've been able to rescind and override zoning, as they've seen fit, and that's always stood up."
One resident conveyed her worries about the special advisor Kahlon appointed to Oak Bay on Jan. 30, tasked with helping the district develop more homes. This move came after Oak Bay failed to meet its provincially mandated housing targets last year – completing only 16 of the 56 units required.
"I've written a note to the mayor and council asking for a written account of what the special advisor's framework is, including assigned objectives and outcomes," said Jessica van der Veen.
"So far, the province has not agreed to share the report with us," replied Murdoch. "If it's supposed to share actual information to make a change, we think the whole report should be made at least available to the district.
Others asked how densification would affect the district's neighbourhoods and green spaces.
“We have extraordinary natural assets, like few other municipalities in Canada. It's truly amazing what's around us," said one resident. "Handle with white gloves, please.”
