A significant number of much needed three-bedroom apartments will soon be introduced to Kelowna's rental market.
During a public hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 17, city council approved the 6.5-storey affordable rental building on Harvey Avenue near the intersection of Gordon Drive.
The development will feature 35 three-bedroom units intended to support low-income families, along with seven two-bedroom units and four one-bedroom units.
Council approved multiple variances requested by developers, the most contentious being the 52 new parking stalls provided, falling short of the 78 stalls required by city regulations.
However, when combined with the 52 new stalls, the 97 stalls at the existing residential building located on the same lot will actually create a surplus of parking.
According to the development team, residents from both buildings will share the combined 159 stalls.
While multiple councilors expressed concerns with parking and form and character, ultimately, the need for affordable three-bedroom apartments won out.
“Their quality of life will be greatly enhanced by living in a brand new condo, as opposed to a family of three or more living in a basement suite at market rent because that’s all they can afford,” said Mayor Colin Basran.
In the end, coun. Brad Sieben was the only vote opposed to the project.
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