Growth fees could be in place by January 1

WINNIPEG — A controversial plan to introduce thousands of dollars in growth fees on new development in Winnipeg could be in place by the new year.

A report on where and how the fees could be implemented was released Friday and recommends a January 1, 2017 start, with few exemptions.

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“This is keeping with being open and transparent on this issue,” Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman said. “I was clear on my belief growth was not being paid for by growth.”

The report suggests the city adopt recommendations made by a consulting group of fees of about $10/ sq ft. on any new home, $15/ sq ft on commercial and retail space and $22/ sq ft on office space.

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There are no exemptions for downtown development, but government buildings, Manitoba Housing, new schools, garages and decks would not have to pay the new fees.

“The revenue will go towards infrastructure projects,” Bowman said.

The report still requires the approval of the executive policy committee and council.

It comes just days after a major developer suggested there “will be trouble” for their industry if the city pushes through its plan too quickly.

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On Monday, Eric Vogan, Qualico’s vice president of community development, told reporters he didn’t think the plan would work.

“If indeed he proposes to move ahead…I think there will be trouble,” Vogan said.