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Decentralized Democracy

Ontario Assembly Bill

Ontario Bill 45

43rd Parl. 1st Sess.
November 22, 2022
Building More Homes on Major Streets and Transit Corridors Act, 2022
  • This is a summary of a law called the Building More Homes on Major Streets and Transit Corridors Act, 2022. The law requires official plans to allow for midrise housing developments in certain areas. Midrise housing developments are buildings that are between six and 11 stories tall and are located on major streets, including along transit corridors. The law also states that there can be no appeals against these policies, except for appeals made by the Minister. The law allows for the amendment or revocation of these policies, and it requires local municipalities to pass by-laws that align with these policies. The law will come into effect once it receives Royal Assent and is titled the Building More Homes on Major Streets and Transit Corridors Act, 2022.
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SteelmanSpren in Favour

  • Steelman Argument: The Building More Homes on Major Streets and Transit Corridors Act, 2022, also known as Bill 45, proposes amendments to the Planning Act in Ontario to require official plans to authorize midrise housing developments in specific circumstances. This act aims to address the growing housing crisis in the province and promote sustainable urban development. One of the key provisions of this act is the requirement for official plans to include policies that authorize midrise housing developments ranging from six to 11 stories on major streets, including along transit corridors. This provision recognizes the need for denser housing options in areas that are well-connected and have existing infrastructure. By allowing midrise housing developments in these locations, the act encourages efficient land use and reduces urban sprawl. Furthermore, the act explicitly states that there will be no appeal in respect of the policies described in subsection 16 (3.1), including any requirements or standards that are part of such policies. This provision ensures that the implementation of midrise housing developments is not hindered by lengthy and costly legal battles. It streamlines the decision-making process and allows for quicker development, which is crucial in addressing the housing shortage. Additionally, the act grants the Minister the authority to amend or revoke the policies described in subsection 16 (3.1). This provision ensures that the government can adapt to changing circumstances and make necessary adjustments to the housing policies as needed. It provides flexibility in responding to future challenges and allows for continuous improvement in housing development strategies. Moreover, the act includes provisions that prevent appeals in respect of the parts of a by-law that give effect to the policies described in subsection 16 (3.1). This provision further streamlines the development process by reducing potential legal obstacles. It ensures that the by-laws passed by local municipalities align with the objectives of the act and contribute to the overall goal of building more homes on major streets and transit corridors. In conclusion, the Building More Homes on Major Streets and Transit Corridors Act, 2022, presents a steelman argument in favor of promoting midrise housing developments in specific circumstances. By requiring official plans to authorize such developments and streamlining the decision-making process, this act aims to address the housing crisis, promote sustainable urban development, and ensure efficient land use in Ontario.

SteelmanSpren Against

  • Steelman Argument Opposing Bill 45: Bill 45, also known as the Building More Homes on Major Streets and Transit Corridors Act, 2022, proposes amendments to the Planning Act in Ontario to require official plans to authorize midrise housing developments in specific circumstances. While the intention behind this bill may be to address housing shortages and promote urban development, there are several concerns that arise from a right-wing anti-government perspective. 1. Government Overreach: This bill represents yet another instance of government overreach into the housing market. By mandating specific housing developments and dictating where they should be located, the government is infringing upon the property rights of individuals and limiting their freedom to make decisions about their own land. 2. Market Distortion: The government's intervention in the housing market through this bill could lead to market distortions. By favoring midrise housing developments on major streets and transit corridors, the government is artificially directing demand and investment towards these areas. This could result in an oversupply of housing in these specific locations, while neglecting other areas that may have different housing needs. 3. Lack of Appeal Process: The bill includes provisions that limit the ability to appeal the policies described in subsection 16 (3.1). This lack of appeal undermines the principles of transparency and accountability. It denies affected individuals and communities the opportunity to voice their concerns or challenge decisions that may negatively impact their neighborhoods or property values. 4. Ministerial Exception: The bill includes exceptions that allow the Minister to appeal decisions related to midrise housing development policies. This creates a double standard, where the government can challenge decisions made by local municipalities, but citizens are denied the same right. This undermines the principle of equal treatment under the law and gives the government disproportionate power in shaping housing policies. 5. Local Autonomy: The bill imposes a requirement on local municipalities to ensure that their by-laws give effect to the policies described in subsection 16 (3.1). This undermines the autonomy of local governments and restricts their ability to make decisions that align with the unique needs and preferences of their communities. It disregards the principle of subsidiarity and centralizes power in the hands of the provincial government. In conclusion, while the intention behind Bill 45 may be to address housing shortages, it raises concerns from a right-wing anti-government perspective. The bill represents government overreach, market distortions, limited appeal processes, ministerial exceptions, and undermines local autonomy. These concerns should be carefully considered
First Reading
  • Nov. 22, 2022, noon
  • In Progress
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