Erick Villagomez

2 weeks ago | spacing.ca | Erick Villagomez

In just one month, well-known YouTube personality Uytae Lee released three high-profile videos addressing the creation of new downtowns, taxes, and mass-produced housing. While his signature affability remains intact, the captions suggest a notable shift that began earlier, including controversial episodes like The Problem with Public Hearings. These episodes were produced in partnership with organizations and agencies—each with a vested interest in the narratives being promoted.

3 weeks ago | vancouversun.com | Erick Villagomez

Advertisement 1Opinion: On B.C.'s Bill 13, Bill 15 and the end of urban democracy: These bills give the province the tools it has long sought: faster approvals, fewer checks and less local resistanceArticle contentIn British Columbia, democracy is being redefined — not through elections or referendums, but through legislation with quiet names and sweeping consequences. Sign In or Create an AccountArticle contentArticle contentBill 13 and Bill 15 are not household names.

1 month ago | spacing.ca | Erick Villagomez

In British Columbia, democracy is being redefined—not through elections or referendums, but through legislation with quiet names and sweeping consequences. Bill 13 and Bill 15 are not household names, nor do they arrive with much fanfare. But together, they represent a fundamental reordering of power between the Province and its municipalities. Framed as tools to accelerate housing and infrastructure, these bills do far more than expedite permits or streamline approvals.

1 month ago | spacing.ca | Erick Villagomez

Parts I and Part II of The Coriolis Effect explored how market-aligned tools like the pro forma have subtly—but powerfully—steered urban planning in directions that often favour capital over community. These tools, cloaked in technical neutrality, have become stand-ins for judgment, overshadowing the planner’s role as steward of the public interest. But if the diagnosis is clear, the next question becomes urgent: What would it take to resist the pull? This third piece looks forward.

1 month ago | spacing.ca | Erick Villagomez

The Coriolis Effect, Part I went through a long gestation period as I humbly asked various people within the discipline for constructive feedback. I was grateful to receive generous, well-argued critiques from well-seasoned planners and others with decades of experience. Although many praised the clarity of the writing and overall message, some took issue with what they saw as a misfire in my target: the humble pro forma.