Clarington Discusses Future of Development Charges Amid By-law Expiry

The General Government Committee of Clarington convened on February 3, 2025, to discuss updates regarding the Development Charge Study and Community Benefits Charge Strategy. The current Development Charge By-law, which is set to lapse in January 2026, was a focal point of the meeting. Jackie Hall from Hemson Consulting led the presentation, detailing a new framework that encompasses Development Charges (DCs), Community Benefit Charges (CBCs), and Parkland Acquisition, all under the legislative purview of Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act.

Hall provided insight into the recent amendments to the Development Charge Act (DCA) and related regulations, specifically how they pertain to the Municipality of Clarington. The session included an overview of the development and employment forecast projected to 2051, an analysis of 15-year historical inventories, and the maximum funding envelopes for DCs. Information was shared about the municipal-wide capital program and draft calculated residential and non-residential rates. Comparisons of existing versus newly drafted rates for different property types, including single-detached dwellings and industrial properties, were presented to the committee.

These evaluations and forecasts are intended to assist Clarington in preparing for future growth and making informed decisions as the by-law's expiration approaches.