B.C. Housing Crisis

B.C. housing crisis is turning into a job crisis.

In July, over 7,600 construction jobs disappeared in B.C. That’s thousands of families suddenly wondering how they’ll make ends meet — and it shows just how deep our housing crisis has become. It’s no longer just about affordability. Now it’s about livelihoods.

These aren’t just numbers on a page — they represent highly skilled tradespeople, well-paying jobs, and families whose livelihoods are being put at risk.

For years, governments have piled on taxes, fees, and red tape. The result? Projects stall, homes don’t get built, and skilled tradespeople are left without work. Meanwhile, big promises keep being made — but the number of homes actually getting built keeps dropping.

This year, Canada will build roughly 237,000 homes — 12,000 fewer than in 1972. By 2027, CMHC projects just 220,000. Two generations later, with twice the population, output is falling.

We need to change course. That means:

• Cutting approval and permitting delays.

• Reducing the heavy load of fees and costs on new homes.

• Partnering with cities on infrastructure instead of forcing them to overtax housing.

• And getting all levels of government to work with the people who actually build.

From healthcare to small enterprises—employers can’t hire because workers can’t afford to live nearby.

British Columbians don’t need more talk — they need action. We can protect good jobs and make housing more affordable, but only if we get serious about fixing the broken system that’s holding us back.

*Original full article located in the Vancouver Sun: https://vancouversun.com/opinion/op-ed/opinion-b-c-s-housing-crisis-is-now-a-jobs-crisis

*Original article written by Chris Gardner, President and CEO of the ICBA (Independent Contractors and Businesses Association