Malcolm Ng, on behalf the condominium board of the existing development to the north of this proposal, spoke in opposition to the proposed development. Mr. Ng expressed concerns about the proposed maximum elevation and density permissions contained in the zoning by-law amendment as being incompatible with the character of the existing townhomes to the north of the proposed development.
Jack Wong, Malone Given Parsons, on behalf of the applicant, delivered a PowerPoint presentation on the proposed development, identifying revisions made to the original application based on comments provided by City Staff as well as feedback received during the statutory public meeting. Mr. Wong clarified that the proposed density of the development is consistent with that of existing developments in the surrounding area. It was also noted that the proposed height allowances are being requested as a result of grade differentials on the subject property, and that not all proposed units will achieve the maximum elevation as permitted by the zoning bylaw amendment.
The Committee discussed the following relative to the application:
- enhancing connectivity between the subject property and adjacent townhouse complexes through the construction of a walkway connection between the proposed development and Melissa Way
- the possibility of relocating the proposed on-site visitor parking spaces away from the amenity area to provide for additional buffering and separation between the proposed development and the adjacent townhouses to the north
- ensuring a dedicated space for on-site snow storage that meets environmental requirements and does not obstruct visitor parking
- restricting the maximum height of the proposed units immediately adjacent to the abutting townhouse complex to the north to ensure appropriate transitioning
The Committee requested that, as a condition of the site approval, the applicant be required to construct a walkway connecting the subject property to Melissa Way, provided that the existing condominium complexes to the north of the site are in agreement.
The Committee consented to place the application on the April 30, 2019 Council agenda in order to provide the applicant with the opportunity to consult with the adjacent condominium board to the north and to work with Staff to try to incorporate the recommendations proposed by Committee prior to receiving Council approval. There was discussion about a potential meeting between the applicant, condo board representative, Staff, and the Ward Councillor to discuss outstanding concerns.