Concerns about West Âé¶čAV's new Zoning Bylaw have delayed its adoption.
At Tuesdayâs (Jan. 14) council meeting, Councillor Rick de Jong expressed significant reservations, particularly about building heights and land use.
de Jong acknowledged that he had questions that should have been asked at councilâs Dec. 10 meeting when the bylaw was given third reading. âUnfortunately, I did miss that meeting so here we are at this point. I apologize for bringing these things forward at such a late date.â
One of his primary concerns centred on building heights for new developments. These were outlined in the Official Community Plan two years ago. The councillor also noted that council had previously expressed an interest in land assemblies in areas designated for taller buildings.
de Jong specifically referenced a rezoning application for a property on Anders Road in Lakeview Heights, which proposed a six-storey building with 43 units on a narrow lot. âThat to me is an example of what we donât want to see,â he said. âNarrow, high-rise structures on minimal lot sizes. That was not the vision of council that I heard.â
The proposal has drawn community opposition, with 36 written submissions against the rezoning and more than two dozen of Lakeview Heights residents attending Tuesdayâs meeting.
Mayor Gord Milsom was caught off guard by de Jongâs comments. âIâm surprised you left it to the date of adoption, that you didnât bring it forward at a prior meeting,â Milsom said.
The mayor also questioned de Jongâs comment that council previously emphasized land assemblies, seeking clarification from city staff. âI donât specifically recall this, but that doesnât mean it didnât happen,â said Brent Magnan, director of development approvals. âWe would have to review some of the conversations at the time.â
Council voted to defer the Zoning Bylaw, which also delayed the rezoning application for Anders Road. Councillors Garrett Millsap and Jason Friesen were not present at Tuesday's meeting.
