Two Property Development Cases Illustrate the Power of Citizen input on New Westminster City Planning

The September 25th City Council Roundup focused on two rental developments that were presented to City Council for approval. While both were residential rental buildings and both were in the city's west end, only one was approved. Delegations from local citizenry spoke to council about how the buildings would affect the area and those who lived there. The debates within council focused on livability and adherence to long term city planning.

How does any city decide which developments to approve and which to send back for changes? In this episode of City Council Roundup, New Westminster looks at two different residential developments in the same part of the city. Delegates in person and by letter present their case, and decisions are made. The discussions around rental buildings, the protection of small businesses and the quality of life for residents are all part of the decision making process.

A public hearing prior to the city council meeting had three delegates from the local area present arguments against the loss of small local retailers in the first development. City Council met after the public hearing for a final discussion on this development. The verdict was that while locals may disagree with this direction, it fell well within the Official Community Plan. 

City Council then considered 15 letters sent in protest of another development to add rental apartments to an already existing building. Concerns centered on livability during construction and the removal of several mature trees that provided tenants with shade. In the end, with several councillors stating they could not support this development as it currently was before them, it was defeated.

Mayor Patrick Johnstone stated regarding the first presentation to "Never underestimate the importance of addressing the need for family friendly housing in our community."