In Sherbrooke, despite the dissatisfaction of property developers, the ordinance that will force them to pay greater fees was passed Tuesday night.
This situation therefore means that the cost of sidewalks and underground infrastructure now belongs to property developers. They also have to bear the costs of expanding the pipes of the aqueduct network, as well as modifications to existing equipment such as pumping stations.
One of the dissident council members, Hélène Dauphinais, pointed out that it would have been wiser to wait. The promoters have informed TVA Nouvelles that projects may be abandoned.
While Sherbrooke needs new homes to help stem the housing crisis, developers fear a construction slowdown and must pass the bill to customers.
For Mayor Évelyne Beaudin, the debate goes beyond urban sprawl, it’s a financially responsible decision.
This decision should increase the cost of land to be developed… and could delay or even jeopardize future projects for the same reason.