Addressing Calgary's housing crisis: Calgary Conversations Episode 11

The City of Calgary held a detailed discussion on addressing the ongoing housing crisis, focusing on both market and non-market housing solutions. Key strategies include the 'Home is Here' initiative, which involves advocacy, investment, and collaboration across government levels to increase housing supply and affordability. The city is actively working on rezoning efforts to increase housing density and options, as well as innovative programs like the Housing Incentive Program (HIP) that provide grants and fee rebates to affordable housing providers. A significant focus is on utilizing underused city-owned lands, offering them at cost to non-profit housing providers to expedite affordable housing development. The city reported a substantial increase in non-market housing permits and emphasized the importance of a coordinated, multi-sector approach to reduce waitlists and meet the needs of vulnerable populations. While challenges remain, including complex land issues and a growing demand, the city is committed to ongoing engagement, monitoring, and adapting strategies to ensure progress toward housing affordability and availability for all Calgarians.