Charlottetown’s city council is organizing a public gathering in early September to gather input from residents regarding the proposed new zoning and development regulations for the city. This bylaw outlines construction guidelines and locations within Charlottetown. Deputy Mayor Alanna Jankov mentioned that there have been multiple open house sessions, and city staff are reviewing the feedback received.
Jankov, who leads the planning and heritage committee, emphasized the importance of residents asking questions and seeking clarity during the meeting. She highlighted the directive given to staff and consultants to focus on addressing concerns raised by residents regarding the zoning and development bylaw.
A major point of contention raised by residents, according to Jankov and other council members, revolves around the provision allowing for up to four units to be added to residential properties in certain areas. Jankov expressed hope that the public meeting will offer clarification on the contents of the extensive 200-page draft document.
To convert a residential property into multiple units, Jankov specified that the property must serve as the owner’s primary residence. Additionally, a zoning map will indicate the residential zones in the city where the provision for four units may apply.
Charlottetown faced a financial setback, with $1.26 million reclaimed by the federal government due to delays in implementing the new zoning and development regulations, including the four-unit provision. The city’s agreement with the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund necessitated changes to building permits and zoning, a requirement that Charlottetown failed to meet during an annual review.
With the municipal elections approaching in November, Jankov expressed her desire for the council to finalize the bylaw before the election, ensuring completion of the work initiated during the current term. Councilor Mitchell Tweel suggested running a full-page advertisement in a local newspaper to promote the public meeting, a suggestion supported by Jankov to ensure increased attendance and awareness about the event.