Victoria City Council adopts tenant compensation and homelessness data reforms

Victoria City Council unanimously approved a motion to increase compensation for renters displaced by redevelopment projects. Under the new bylaw amendments, tenants may receive between five and 24 months of rent based on how long they have lived in a unit, with additional moving expense allowances ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 depending on unit size. Councillor Stephen Hammond highlighted the need to protect the city’s 60.5 % renter households, while some council members expressed concern that higher payouts could deter developers. The motion passed unanimously.

In a separate but related initiative, the council also passed a motion to accelerate the regional rollout of the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS). The system will create a by‑name list of unhoused individuals, enabling real‑time data sharing among service providers. Councillor Krista Loughton and Councillor Dave Thompson emphasized that accurate, up‑to‑date data is essential for effective homelessness interventions. Amendments were added to address privacy concerns and to press BC Housing and the Capital Regional District to speed implementation.