Esquimalt remains one of the few B.C. municipalities without Development Cost Charges (DCCs) for new construction. Do you support introducing these developer fees to fund local infrastructure? Why or why not?

Chamber ACM question

Yes. I support Development Cost Charges in Esquimalt.

For me, this is really about being proactive. If we know growth is coming, we should also know what infrastructure that growth is going to require, when we are going to need it, and what it is likely to cost. We need that information before the pressure shows up, not after.

DCCs give us a way to connect those future infrastructure costs directly to growth. If new development creates the need for expanded roads, sewer, water, drainage, parks or other infrastructure, growth should contribute a fair share toward paying for it.

But the first step is getting the information right. I want a proper assessment of projected growth and infrastructure needs so Council is making decisions with real numbers instead of reacting later when options are fewer, and costs are higher.

That information also lets us set fair charges and use exemptions strategically where there is a clear community benefit, such as qualifying affordable housing.

This is exactly how I think we should govern: anticipate what is coming, get the right information early, and make the decision before the problem becomes more expensive.