Mixed Reaction to Proposed Project as Public Hearing Goes Late Into the Night

Artist rendering of the propsed building (Photo Credit: City of Kelowna)

It was a heated debate Tuesday night at a public hearing at Kelowna City Hall as a proposed development went before council and residents.

A packed room saw at least 50 speakers take to the podium to express their complaints and enthusiasm for a proposed development for the corner of Strathcona Avenue and Abbott Street. The project would see a health services building as well as commercial businesses. The 3.5 storey building would be directly adjacent to the Cancer Lodge, says Ryan Smith, City of Kelowna Urban Planning Manager.

“We heard from a lot of local residents that were concerned about either the design of the building, the potential traffic or parking in the neighbourhood,” said Smith. “We heard a lot of positive feedback from staff at the hospital and other members of the surrounding area who are excited about the potential for medical services in the area and a small restaurant and coffee shop to service the hospital.”

Several members from the group Citizens for a Better Kelowna were vocal with their concerns, namely about concerns with building setbacks and parking.

Location of the proposed development (Photo Credit: City of Kelowna)

“From the city’s stand point the building does meet the bylaws with regards to parking and there is a minor setback area along the east side of the building,” explains Smith. “The Cancer Lodge did write a letter of support for the building and that’s one of the things we consider when looking at design and the impact to the neighbours.”

The meeting went late into the night but once everyone had a chance to speak City Council voted in favour to support the application and advance it to third reading. The application will go back to the developer to work with City staff on finalizing a heritage alteration permit and that will return to council in the next few months.

Changes could still be seen to the application as the developer tweaks the design and works with residents in the area. Smith says more improvements may be made by the developer based on feedback heard Tuesday evening at the public hearing.