Community Amenity Contributions
Community amenity contributions (CACs) are tools used by local governments to help fund services such as affordable housing, child care, and recreation facilities in step with development. CACs are negotiated between local governments and developers, based on methodologies detailed in the local government policy. When land is rezoned, it often increases the value of the land. Local governments may seek to capture part of that additional value to fund new infrastructure, facilities, or other public benefits.
Community Amenity Contributions (CACs) are typically made through the provision of on-site amenities and/or a contribution towards public benefits that serve the larger community.
CACs help the municipality build and expand facilities like:
- Affordable housing
- Parks and open spaces
- Childcare facilities
- Facilities like community centres, libraries, and recreation centres
- Transportation and public realm improvements
- Arts and culture space
CACs are negotiated with the property owner, and are a function of historic expectations and the additional value of the future development that is generated through the rezoning process.
To be realized they must be approved by Council and agreed to by the property owner. The aim is to enable a suitable contribution that provides lasting and meaningful benefit to the Whistler resort community, in addition to creating a successful new neighbourhood in this prime location.
How much do amenities cost?
Before choosing what amenities to fund with the community amenity contributions from the developer, it's important to know not only the capital costs, but what it costs to own and operate over the long-term. The operations of any facility that is selected for funding will need to be funding through property taxation and user fees.
