The City of Cranbrook is updating its Development Cost Charges bylaw and is asking residents to weigh in on how future growth should be funded.
Development Cost Charges (DCCs) are fees collected from developers and builders when new lots are created or buildings are constructed.
According to the city, the charges are used to help pay for municipal infrastructure.
City officials say Cranbrook continues to grow, increasing demand on existing infrastructure.
Under the proposed update, the cost of new development could be covered by DCCs, existing taxpayers, or a combination of both.
Residents are being asked to complete an online survey by Jan. 31 at 11:59 p.m.
The survey seeks input on several key topics, including who should pay for growth, opinions on potential increases to DCCs, and whether residents would support higher taxes or utility fees to reduce charges paid by developers — a move the city says could help lower housing costs.
The survey also asks how much residents would be willing to pay in additional taxes or utility fees to waive DCCs for affordable housing developments.
In addition to the public survey, the city is hosting a virtual information session for developers and builders on Thursday, Jan. 22, from 11 a.m. to noon.
Those interested in attending the virtual meeting are asked to register in advance by emailing curtis.penson@cranbrook.ca.
The session follows a recent community engagement event hosted by the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce.
More information on the DCC update process is available through the City of Cranbrook.
Comments