Letter to the Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs

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July 21, 2025

To the Honourable Minister Boyle,

Re: Urgent Need for Increased Affordable Housing Options in British Columbia

The Professional Employees Association (PEA) is BC’s union for professionals. We were formed in 1974 to represent licensed professionals employed in the BC Public Service. Since that time, we have grown to support over 3,800 members in a wide range of professions in the education, legal, and health care sectors. More than 90 per cent of our members work in the public sector, and approximately half work directly for the Province of BC.

I am writing on behalf of our members to express our deep concern regarding the ongoing housing affordability crisis that continues to impact working families across the province. As the cost of living and rental prices escalate at unprecedented rates, many of our members are struggling to secure safe, stable, and affordable housing.

Affordable housing is not only a social necessity; it is foundational to a productive and healthy workforce. When workers are forced to spend a disproportionate share of their income on rent, or face long commutes due to being priced out of urban centres, it directly affects their health, well-being, and job performance. These conditions also have wider economic consequences, including labour shortages in essential sectors and increased pressure on public services.

We respectfully urge your ministry to:

  1. Increase investment in non-market and co-operative housing developments, with clear targets for low- and moderate-income households.
  2. Accelerate the implementation of inclusive zoning policies that require a fixed percentage of new developments to include affordable units.
  3. Enhance support for municipalities to fast-track the approval and construction of purpose-built rental housing.
  4. Work collaboratively with Indigenous communities, non-profits, and labour organizations to ensure housing solutions are equitable, sustainable, and locally informed.

We believe that with robust public investment, British Columbia can be a leader in creating housing systems that work for all.

Thank you for your time and attention to this critical issue.

Sincerely,

Cliff Haman
President
Professional Employees Association

Melissa Moroz
Executive Director
Professional Employees Association

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