Expect More Secondary Suites

The city of Calgary must take responsibility to provide access to affordable living accommodations so that Calgarians at all income levels can live comfortably.

The recent economic boom has resulted in unprecedented growth of new homes and real estate developments. Unfortunately, many residents cannot find affordable accommodation due to unmitigated development and restrictive zoning bylaws.

There are thousands of illegal secondary suites operating outside the municipal codes which provide homes for lower-income residents, whether they be students, welfare recipients, or the working poor.

There are thousands more who would be willing to construct a secondary suite if it weren't for the restrictive red-tape in the codes which make it difficult to create new suites.

As mayor, Sandy Jenkins will offer a two-year amnesty on illegal secondary suites in order to alleviate the current housing crunch. He will also work to redesign the code to make it simpler and safer to operate and reside in secondary suites. This will help current landlords, encourage new landlords, and open more affordable housing for
the city.

Encouraging more secondary suites by simplifying the codes will allow for Calgarians of all income levels to participate in the city`s booming economy.

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