Metro Vancouver mayors are expressing concerns over a provincial bill that they believe would restrict a city’s ability to review development applications verified by professionals. Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley, at a recent mayors’ committee meeting, raised objections to the proposed Professional Reliance Act by NDP MLA George Anderson, labeling it as an intrusion by the provincial government into municipal affairs.
The bill stipulates that local governments must accept any technical submission endorsed by a professional registered under the Professional Governance Act (PGA) for the development project approval process, except in cases of incomplete submissions. Professionals like engineers, geoscientists, and architects, governed by the PGA, are covered under this act.
Moreover, the bill prohibits local governments from conducting peer reviews on submissions certified by a PGA professional. Currently, municipalities in British Columbia have the authority to cross-verify the work of professionals submitted by developers when approving new housing projects.
The proposed legislation triggered criticism within the mayoral committee. Delta Mayor George Harvie expressed worries about losing the ability to conduct peer reviews, which he deemed essential for his municipality. Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart voiced concerns about the gradual loss of local government autonomy due to such legislative interventions.
In defense of the bill, MLA George Anderson argued that it aims to expedite housing construction processes to provide faster access to homes for young people and families, while ensuring trust in certified professionals. The bill intends to streamline the reliance on professionals, thereby eliminating redundant rechecks by city officials or consultants, which cause delays in housing projects.
Anderson emphasized that the bill would shift liability for damages resulting from professional certification to the PGA professional, relieving municipalities of such responsibilities. Additionally, the bill claims to reduce administrative costs associated with development approvals.
The bill is set for a second reading on November 17, where it will undergo further scrutiny and public consultation. Housing and Municipalities Minister Christine Boyle highlighted the government’s commitment to delivering more affordable homes and encouraged municipal feedback on the proposal. Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the public and pledged to provide input on the bill’s potential impact on professional practices and local government operations.