Human Resources committee  The short answer is that a few years ago we did streamline the development process document, which I'm more than happy to share. That started the conversation. I'll also include some case studies from some municipalities that have done some great work at streamlining. I won't list them, but there are probably about four or five of them in that document that also illustrate exactly what you're speaking about.

Human Resources committee  I'll add something about the need for a rental housing strategy. That's certainly part of it. We've spoken about supply, but previous presenters have done a great job of suggesting that it is two sides of the same coin, so we need to also look at demand and make sure that for everyone in our complete community, there's a mix of tenures, mixes, types, etc.

Human Resources committee  Yes, and thank you for the question. The short answer is yes, absolutely, and that was one of the recommendations to the federal government in terms of improving outcomes for people. The more we can empower and provide flexibility for not only land trusts but also the provision of Crown land as well, which I know is particularly of interest to rural members, the more options we have on the table.

Human Resources committee  Sure. We have made a recommendation about the numerous provincial directives, including the provincial policy statement and greenbelt plan as well as the regional growth plans, to deal with addressing that issue that you brought up. It's a very good one and is one of the barriers that rural communities have mentioned to us, so it's certainly part of the solution.

Human Resources committee  I can start. I think the issue you raise is a good one. It's talking about redesigning and expanding the federal lands initiative to provide surplus or underused Crown lands to municipal governments, contingent on building affordable or “missing middle” housing options. That's certainly consistent with what the Federation of Canadian Municipalities has offered.

Human Resources committee  Thank you. I would add that one of the housing principles we've put forward in our blueprint is that, to your point on flexibility, it's very critical that provincial and federal governments ensure municipalities have sufficient flexibility to achieve their own housing affordability in ways that meet their own local needs rather than using one-size-fits-all solutions.