housing-constructionThe city’s building permit numbers are strong this year and continue to outpace last year.

Construction value to date is $17.6-million compared to $10.4-million a year ago.

Mayor Al McDonald says it’s a good sign and that while it’s still early, this sets the stage for further development throughout the year.

Going forward, council is hopeful steps they’ve taken will boost development in the housing sector.

They eliminated development charges on houses less than 1,200 square feet and reduce charges by 30 percent on homes between 1,200 and 1,500 square feet.