The New West Tenants Union (NWTU) is calling on the New Westminster City Council to create new bylaws to protect renters from the unintended consequences of British Columbia’s new development laws. 

Historically, New Westminster has been proactive in tenant protection. The city’s eviction protections have typically been negotiated during the rezoning process, ensuring a balance between development and renter security. However, the new laws threaten to undermine this approach.

The NWTU’s concerns are backed by data from other cities. In Vancouver, for instance, similar policies have led to a vacancy rate of just 0.9%, exacerbating the housing crisis and putting immense pressure on renters. The Union argues that without adequate protections, New Westminster could face a similar situation.

Mayor Johnstone addressed these concerns, acknowledging the potential impact on the city’s ability to enforce eviction protections. "I do feel that one of the unanticipated impacts of these regulations is going to be a loss of our ability to enforce the eviction protections that we have in the same way that we have previously. It is time for a review to make sure we are doing the best we can...to make sure people are as secure as they can be in their homes in New Westminster."

The Mayor's comments highlight the need for a comprehensive review of current policies to ensure they remain effective under the new development framework. The NWTU is advocating for strong bylaw protections to replace the negotiation-based approach, aiming to secure long-term housing stability for New Westminster residents.

The NWTU’s advocacy comes at a critical time as the city grapples with balancing development and maintaining a livable environment for its renters. Their call to action underscores the importance of proactive measures to protect tenants amid rapid urban development. You can learn more at nwtenantunion.org.