District of Squamish is inviting the community to a public hearing on a proposed bylaw amendment that would penalize new development that uses high carbon energy sources.
Those who believe their interest in property is affected by the proposed bylaw will have an opportunity to be heard and to present written submissions at the public hearing on Tuesday, March 23, 2021 being held at 6 p.m.
The district’s Low Carbon Incentive Program will reduce the permitted maximum size of residential construction by one third if a high carbon energy source is used within the building.
Buildings that use only low carbon energy sources such as baseboard heaters, heat pumps and electric hot water tanks can be built to full size.
The proposed bylaw also has other density bonuses that will be available to buildings that generate energy from renewable sources or apartments that achieve low greenhouse gas intensity for electric water heating systems.
This new bylaw will apply to all land zoned RS-1, RS-1A, RS-2, RS-3, RM-1, RM-2, RMH-2, C-1 and C-4.
Although in-person participation is not available, comments can be provided through email, phone, and written submissions. More details on how to participate can be found on the district website.
Ihor Zalubniak says
It appears that our Council has failed to distinguish between “incentive” and “penalty”. Further to that, what is the expected build out of accommodation that will will use “high carbon fuels” over the next 30 years and what is the considered impact of those homes to carbon pollution. Political posturing to secure RE-election or perhaps a manoeuvre to step up to political levels above those of a municipality? Deal with vehicle pollution from destination tourism first.