The big housing reveal
And the gift of gravy
ABOVE THE FOLD
HOUSING BILL INCOMING — It’s almost here! Housing Minister PAUL CALANDRA’s elusive housing legislation is headed for the Clerk’s table this afternoon. Here’s what we know — and don’t — so far.
Officially, Calandra is teasing the legislation as one that would “cut red tape and help municipalities build.”
Unofficially, there’s been buzz that the bill has been “watered down” from earlier drafts — namely, it almost certainly won’t include fourplexes, after cabinet “lost their shit” and DOUG FORD publicly ruled them out provincewide — despite the feds dangling a $6-billion carrot in housing cash.
That said, Grit captain BONNIE CROMBIE changed her tune on fourplexes, so Ford could do the same (but don’t hold your breath).
What municipalities will be looking for: Post-Bill 23 measures, such as changing the way the government clocks housing starts and a broader review of who pays for what, something Big City Mayors chair MARIANNE MEED WARD is hoping for.
A bed by any …