Linda Hepner, BC Conservative Opposition Housing Critic, Labels NDP Housing Mandate as “Blueprint for More Delays”

"The NDP’s housing mandate is full of lofty promises but lacks the urgency and concrete steps British Columbians need. Families are struggling, developers are frustrated, and municipalities are overwhelmed. This is not the bold action our province deserves; it's just more delays wrapped in empty rhetoric"  ~~  Linda Hepner, Shadow Minister for Housing and MLA for Surrey - Serpentine

Linda Hepner, Opposition Critic for Housing, has called the mandate letter delivered to Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon by Premier David Eby “a missed opportunity and nothing more than a blueprint for delays.”

“The NDP’s housing mandate is full of lofty promises but lacks the urgency and concrete steps British Columbians need,” said Hepner. “Families are struggling, developers are frustrated, and municipalities are overwhelmed. This is not the bold action our province deserves, it’s just more delays wrapped in empty rhetoric.”

Hepner criticized the absence of a focus on market housing and the government’s apparent prioritization of rental and co-op housing over home-ownership. “The NDP seems intent on keeping people as tenants rather than supporting their path to becoming homeowners,” she said. “Home-ownership is a cornerstone of affordability and stability, yet it’s barely addressed in this mandate.”

She also emphasized the need to reduce regulatory hurdles to make building faster and more affordable.

“Reducing red tape is crucial to getting homes built quickly and efficiently,” Hepner said. “Without meaningful reforms, affordability will remain out of reach for countless British Columbians.”

Hepner urged the government to take bold action by setting enforceable housing targets, fast-tracking permits, and partnering with the private sector. “This isn’t just about policies; it’s about families, young professionals, and seniors struggling to afford homes,” she said.

“British Columbians deserve better than vague promises and bureaucratic delays. The time for action is now.” concluded Hepner.