A new study urges Parks Canada to crack down on need-to-reside rules in Banff.
The Town of Banff’s new housing needs assessment indicates there is a critical shortage of affordable homes and notes Banff could have a housing shortfall of 770 units in the next 10 years if population growth is not managed.
Parks Canada officials say through statutory declarations and investigating complaints of people reported to not meet residency requirements, the vast majority of people are in compliance.
“We will review the report and will determine if adjustments to this system are required,” said Dave McDonough, superintendent of Banff National Park.
The need-to-reside rules were introduced in the 1960s and aim to ensure residential lands are available exclusively for community use, rather than bought up for recreational or second homes.
The consultants of the $54,000 housing report for the Banff Housing Corporation encourage Parks Canada to explore opportunities to improve enforcement of the eligible residency requirements.
They also encourage Parks to develop greater clarity around the eligible resident criteria, including public education, to help Banff residents and business owners more clearly understand the legislated definition of eligible resident.
McDonough said Parks Canada presently uses statutory declarations as a key method of enforcement of the need-to-reside.
He said statutory declarations are done on all lands when leases are affected — mortgaged, sold, amended, renewed or replaced. Proof of employment must also be provided.
“I don’t believe there are many people who are not complying,” said McDonough.
