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How Jason Burggraaf reshaped Ottawa’s housing through relentless advocacy

A quiet policy wonk with a loud impact. His fight for future housing reshaped Ottawa’s skyline—and its communities.

In this picture we can see the yellow building in the front. In the front bottom side there are...
In this picture we can see the yellow building in the front. In the front bottom side there are some shop and naming board on white "Metro" is written.

How Jason Burggraaf reshaped Ottawa’s housing through relentless advocacy

Jason Burggraaf, a man of diverse interests and a dedicated professional, has been steering the Greater Ottawa Home Builders' Association for seven years. A former resident of Conception Bay South, N.L., Burggraaf moved to Ottawa to pursue political science at Carleton University. Today, he's known for his passion for housing advocacy and his love for the Beach Boys and Atlético Ottawa soccer games.

Burggraaf's role as executive director sees him advocating for homebuilders' views in residential construction and development policies. Described as a 'policy wonk', he brings people together and empowers his team, a trait that has led to a 30 per cent growth in the association's membership.

His advocacy extends to promoting intensification around LRT stations and increasing the housing supply to accommodate Ottawa's projected population growth. Burggraaf's influence was particularly notable during the pandemic, as he helped ensure the housing industry was designated an essential service.

In his personal life, Burggraaf is quiet and reserved, finding public speaking a challenge. Yet, his passion for his work is evident, with over 20 years dedicated to advocating for 'housing for future generations'.

Jason Burggraaf's leadership has been instrumental in shaping Ottawa's housing landscape. His commitment to his role, coupled with his love for the city and its culture, has not only grown the association but also influenced residential construction and development policies. Despite his reserved nature, Burggraaf's impact on the housing industry is undeniable.

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