Oak Bay's properties have been fully built out since the 1960's, and even though the population has been declining, and there hasn't been a lot of change to the housing stock since then.
Oak Bay Mayor Kevin Murdoch says he spoke to a lot of people, both during his time as a councillor, while campaigning, and since taking the seat of Mayor. He says although lots of residents don't want to see properties rezoned and more buildings erected, there are even more who understand that something has to be done to address the housing crisis.
"There's a lot of support for affordable housing, for different housing needs, for development of different options within the neighbourhoods as well as along the corridors. There's a real understanding that there's a housing need out there, and frankly a lot of it is driven by self-interest in that front as well because people live in their house and they want to have a simpler life as they get older. The kids move out and there's no place to move to in that neighbourhood anymore."
He adds that although there is a divide amongst Oak Bay residents, the Council will work very hard to appease everyone while introducing more housing.
"It doesn't take an awful lot, even in a place like Oak Bay, to really meet a lot of our growth needs. Because, even small little townhouse developments here and there, and a few little few storey appartments, or duplexes, things like that they add up quickly."
He says Oak Bay Council will be focusing on creating bylaws, guidelines, and rezoning that will be very consistent and regulated, to ensure that construction can happen, without disrupting the community.
Murdoch says he hopes to see the regulations strengthened and more housing being built in the municipality by the end of his term in three years.