West Kelowna is facing a housing shortage and is set to add nearly 3,000 new homes over the next five years to meet growing demand. The province has set a target for West Kelowna to build 2,266 homes between August 2024 and July 2029, with a goal of 289 new homes for the first year. However, the city has only completed 64 new homes in the first six months of the plan, falling behind schedule. Mayor Gord Milsom acknowledges the challenge of meeting these targets and emphasizes the need to work with various partners including the federal and provincial governments, BC Housing, and the development industry.
Despite efforts to increase housing construction, only 100 new units were completed within the Reporting Period of Aug. 2024 to Jan. 2025, with 36 units being lost through demolition, resulting in a net total of 64 new units. To meet the housing targets, upgrades to the city’s infrastructure are essential. Mayor Milsom highlights the city’s lack of financial resources to provide necessary infrastructure in areas of growth. The city is now seeking support from the provincial government to handle the growing population and speed up housing developments.
One setback for West Kelowna was the rejection of a proposal for 117 new townhomes, which could have helped the city meet its housing goals. BC Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon mentions the $1 billion Growing Communities Fund, with $10 million earmarked for West Kelowna, as well as tools provided to fast-track approvals. However, projects have been rejected, leading to challenges in meeting housing targets. If municipalities fail to meet these targets, the Minister of Housing can appoint an advisor to review progress and make recommendations for improvement.
The pressure to meet housing targets in West Kelowna is mounting as the city falls behind schedule in building new homes. Mayor Milsom emphasizes the need for collaboration with various partners to address this issue. The city is looking to the provincial government for support in providing necessary infrastructure for areas of growth. The rejection of housing proposals and challenges in getting projects approved are hindering progress, despite efforts and funding provided by the government to help speed up housing developments.
The housing shortage in West Kelowna is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action. With a target to build 2,266 new homes over the next five years, the city needs to ramp up its efforts to meet demand. Upgrades to infrastructure and financial resources are critical to support the growing population and facilitate housing construction. Collaborating with partners and leveraging government support will be vital in overcoming the challenges and ensuring that West Kelowna can meet its housing goals in a timely manner.
In conclusion, West Kelowna is facing a significant housing shortage and is tasked with building nearly 3,000 new homes over the next five years to address the growing demand. However, the city is falling behind schedule in meeting these targets, with only 64 new homes completed in the first six months of the plan. Collaboration with various partners, upgrades to infrastructure, and government support are essential in addressing this issue and ensuring that West Kelowna can provide adequate housing for its residents. The rejection of housing proposals and challenges in project approval are hindering progress, but with concerted efforts and support, the city can work towards meeting its housing goals and accommodating its growing population.
