Nanaimo Council Votes Urgently to Protect Manufactured Homeowners

UPDATE: In a landmark decision, the Nanaimo City Council has just voted to enhance protections for manufactured homeowners, marking a crucial step in housing rights. The council approved the new measures with a vote of 6 to 1 today, October 31, 2025, amid growing concerns over land redevelopment that threatens the stability of nearly 1,700 manufactured homes in the city.

The new policy aims to address gaps in existing provincial protections, ensuring that homeowners receive fair compensation if landowners seek to redevelop properties. Mayor Leonard Krog emphasized the importance of these changes, stating, “It will enhance existing provincial protection and make it easier for owners to be compensated on a redevelopment application.” This new framework is believed to be a first of its kind in the province.

According to Brian Snyder, chair of the Nanaimo Manufactured Home Community Stakeholders Group, the city’s initiative is a significant advancement but still falls short of full protection. “We’re encouraged, of course, but we’re disappointed that they didn’t go further,” Snyder remarked. He highlighted that homeowners will no longer need to resort to court battles to secure their financial rights during redevelopment processes.

The city’s policy includes clear guidelines for communication, compensation, and relocation for homeowners affected by redevelopment. Landowners will now be required to pay homeowners the assessed value of their properties, an essential stipulation that aims to prevent unjust displacement.

However, concerns persist about potential eviction routes that landowners may pursue under provincial residential laws, which could undermine the new protections. Mayor Krog acknowledged the changing economics of manufactured home parks, noting, “We probably will not see new ones in the future,” emphasizing the urgency of the council’s actions.

The council’s decision is expected to set a precedent for other municipalities across British Columbia, as Snyder expressed hope that Nanaimo’s approach will inspire similar reforms in neighboring communities. “Absolutely, we should be proud of that,” he stated regarding the new policy’s significance.

As the council prepares to vote again to officially adopt the policy, the community is urged to stay informed on this developing situation. The full details of the new measures are outlined in the city’s staff report, which is accessible through the official agenda linked on the council’s website.

Nanaimo’s initiative is poised to impact the lives of many manufactured homeowners, fostering a more secure environment as they navigate the complexities of land ownership and redevelopment. This urgent update underscores the council’s commitment to addressing housing challenges in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue affecting homeowners in Nanaimo and beyond.