In a significant decision during the August 6, 2024, City of Chilliwack council meeting, the proposed amendment to the 2040 Official Community Plan (OCP) was rejected. The amendment aimed to change the designation of certain downtown properties from "Residential 1 - Downtown Single Family" to "Urban Quarter" to facilitate the development of a mixed-use commercial and residential complex. This proposal also included a rezoning request from R1-A (Urban Residential) to C9 (Mid Rise Apartment Commercial).

Background of the Proposal

The amendment was initially brought before the council on June 18, 2024, but was referred back to city staff for further clarification regarding the number of storeys, ownership structure, and construction timelines. The applicant, represented by Chuck Stam of Precision Building Associates, responded to the council’s requests in a detailed report. However, despite the additional information, city staff recommended that both the OCP and zoning bylaw amendments be denied.

Community Concerns and Opposition

The proposed development has been met with strong opposition from the local community. Among the concerned citizens was Coletta Holmes, who voiced her frustration with the developer’s lack of transparency. She accused the applicants of providing low-resolution site plans, making it difficult to evaluate the project fairly. Holmes also highlighted existing traffic problems in the area, which she believes would be exacerbated by the development, especially given the presence of nearby industrial properties and the frequent use of the neighbourhood as a shortcut by taxis and delivery couriers.

Terressa Zazulak, another concerned resident, raised issues about the single laneway that would serve as the primary access point to the development’s parking garage. She also questioned the capacity of the local sewer system to handle the additional strain.

James Yaychuk, an industrial property owner, expressed fears about potential future complaints that could arise from residents of the new development, potentially impacting his sheet metal fabricating business. In response, city staff noted that a covenant would be placed on the property to ensure that future owners are aware of the proximity to industrial activities.

Council’s Deliberation and Decision

The councilors were divided on the issue. Councilor Jeff Shields shared the community’s concerns about the laneway, but was informed that city staff had required it to exit into the lane. He, along with Councilor Nicole Read, emphasized the importance of the upcoming OCP review and argued that approving this project would be premature. Both indicated that they would oppose the project.

Councilor Harv Westeringh acknowledged the need for increased housing density but felt that the proposed development represented too significant a change for the neighbourhood and thus, would not support it.

In contrast, Councilors Jason Lum and Chris Kloot were more supportive of the proposal. Lum, noting provincial government housing targets, argued that the project was necessary to meet these demands. Kloot also believed the development would benefit the neighbourhood in the long run and was in line with future trends.

However, Mayor Ken Popove sided with the majority, expressing his trust in staff recommendations and his belief that this was not the right proposal at the right time. He mentioned the forthcoming OCP review as a more appropriate moment to consider such changes.

Ultimately, the council voted against the amendment, effectively halting the project.