At their regular meeting on August 19th, Council approved the proposed revisions to the Latecomer Agreement Policy. A review of comparable BC municipalities shows a clear trend toward simpler, more consistent Latecomer Agreement practices. In line with this, staff recommend key updates to the Latecomer Agreement Policy:  

• Adopt Frontage-Based Cost Allocation (Default Method)  
• The new policy proposes using frontage-based calculations as the primary method for determining Latecomer Charges. This method is simple to use, fair, and aligns with practices in other municipalities. It avoids complex calculations based on land use or density projections.  
• While frontage-based methods are the default, the policy permits the Equivalent Development Unit (EDU) per hectare method as an alternative where it results in a more equitable distribution, subject to approval by the Manager of Land Development.  
• Eliminate Pre-Construction Cost Estimates   
• The former process required both preliminary and final cost assessments. The updated policy eliminates the pre-construction estimate requirement, reducing redundancy and aligning the City's process with legislation and best practice. Charges will now be calculated only after substantial completion, based on certified final costs. 
• Clarify Cost Eligibility and Collection Requirements 
• The policy clearly outlines which costs are eligible and ineligible, sets deadlines for submission of final costs, and codifies that applications must be submitted prior to substantial completion to be considered. Interest accrual, collection procedures, and maximum recovery periods are also defined. 

Additional information can be found in the full report by City staff.