UBCM Urges B.C. to Clarify Buyout Policies for Unsafe Homes

URGENT UPDATE: The Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) has issued a critical call for the province to clarify its policies regarding the buyout of unsafe homes affected by natural hazards. This announcement comes after inadequate responses from Emergency Management Minister Kelly Greene regarding homeowners in the Chilliwack River Valley whose properties have been deemed unsafe due to increased landslide risks.

Homeowners, including Chris Rampersad, are left in limbo, facing properties valued at just $2 after being rendered uninhabitable by the aftermath of the 2021 atmospheric rivers. These catastrophic rains caused extensive damage across southern B.C., leading to billions in losses and tragically claiming five lives.

The UBCM, representing 161 municipalities and 28 regional districts, highlights a significant policy gap. They demand clarity on who bears financial responsibility when homes are unsafe but not directly damaged. UBCM President Trish Mandewo emphasized the need for the province to take a proactive role in addressing these safety concerns.

In a letter to Greene, Mandewo stated, “I think everyone would benefit from greater clarity from the province on its policy for homes that have been deemed unsafe.” She called for collaboration to develop comprehensive policy options, urging the province to engage with local governments.

The B.C. Ministry of Emergency Management has pointed to local governments as responsible for managing buyouts in the Chilliwack River Valley, despite earlier property valuations amounting to about $5 million. Greene’s responses referenced a 2023 flood resilience intentions paper, which lacks definitive policy details regarding landslide risks. This document promotes managed retreats but does not specifically address the urgent need for buyouts in landslide-prone areas.

Rampersad and other homeowners believed a buyout plan was forthcoming, only to discover in 2024 that they would not receive disaster financial assistance, despite billions allocated by federal and provincial governments for disaster recovery. They are now stuck with worthless properties while still paying off mortgages.

The UBCM criticized the province’s focus on flooding, arguing it overlooks the pressing need for clarity on landslide risks. With climate change intensifying natural hazards, local governments are struggling to mitigate these risks without adequate resources or support from the province.

In past instances, the B.C. government has provided financial assistance for properties at risk of landslides. For example, they allocated $2.25 million for unsafe properties in the Chilliwack River Valley in 2009-2010 and $5.8 million for homes in North Vancouver after a deadly landslide in 2005.

The UBCM is urging immediate action from the B.C. government to address this urgent issue. As climate change continues to exacerbate risks, local governments need clear guidelines and resources to protect their communities effectively.

As homeowners anxiously await a resolution, the call for action underscores the pressing need for collaboration between provincial and local governments to ensure the safety and security of residents facing heightened natural hazards. The situation remains fluid, and stakeholders are watching closely for the province’s next steps.