RESCON calls for change to “antiquated process” to streamline building and planning development
In RESCON’s 2020 Pre-Budget Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs, the organization states, “Currently, our process is antiquated, and we are not abreast of other jurisdictions doing things much more efficiently. Although recent changes by the government, especially around the passing of the More Homes, More Choice Act has put us on the right path, there is still room for improvement, particularly around municipal overreach and process streamlining.”
The introductory letter, signed by RESCON President Richard Lyall, adds, “The government’s work on improving the development approvals process is commendable, however, Ontario is not keeping pace with the pace of change and further structural and regulatory changes are necessary to support growth. For example, The World Bank evaluates and measures the ease of doing business in various jurisdictions worldwide; when it comes to dealing with construction permits, Canada (which is represented by Toronto) ranks 64th worldwide. By comparison to our North American neighbours, the United States (represented by New York City and Los Angeles) ranks 24th in dealing with construction permits. The Province has an opportunity to be at the forefront of technological and innovative changes but must act decisively to embrace these opportunities.”
The Pre-Budget Submission offers several recommendations, including:
“The Province should endorse and implement an Ontario-wide data platform.”
“Developing this Ontario-wide data platform should be led by the Province with the support of industry and municipalities. Provincial financial support and matching municipal building department reserve funds can help to fund this work.”
“The Province should support legal challenges against municipal overreach where appropriate to ensure that legal precedent is established reaffirming provincial authority over housing and planning legislative power.”
“The Province should mirror the National Building Code standards for tall mass timber construction and implement the same provisions expeditiously in the Ontario Building Code.”
“Continue investing and support training and education programs in residential construction.”
“The Province should update the Skilled Trades admission process, creating a skilled trades standardized application process for everyone across Ontario that is reflective of current labour market and employer needs as well as actual construction practices.”
“The Province should improve incentives for employers to hire young people and apprentices.”