City council heard feedback from Edmontonians about the new zoning bylaw that came into place a year and a half ago. Proponents for and against the rules gathered to make their voices heard by council Tuesday. Some opposed to the rules said large six- and eight-plex developments are happening too quickly, destroying views and not fitting into established neighbourhoods. The increase in housing also puts a strain on street parking options, one Glenora resident said. “We know we have to densify, but that is far too much,” said Christine Prokop. “What we’re asking for is, can we go down to four units per lot, with parking.” Mayor Amarjeet Sohi sympathised with residents, saying the city expects “developers and builders to live up to community standards.” “I absolutely get the frustration from people when they are not seeing the enforcement of the rules and regulations that we have in place,” Sohi added. Some on the other side of the argument say the city needs to build even more to house Edmonton’s growing population. “Students have said over and over that they are unable to find affordable, safe housing,” said Wilfrid Youbi Fansi of the MacEwan University Students Association. “A lot of the housing that they see as affordable is not available.” Councillors agreed that the city’s housing crisis is ongoing but also that changes to the current zoning bylaw are needed. “Some of the developments we’re seeing are having a dramatic effect on people, and we need to make sure that we’re bringing people along with us in these changes,” said Ward pihêsiwin councillor Tim Cartmell. “I think everyone has been very constructive, shared great feedback, shared great improvements,” added Ward papastew councillor Michael Janz. City administration will present council with a report recommending changes based on the feedback. “We hope there’s a compromise, we hope that the city councillors will finally listen,” said Prokop. City council was working late Tuesday, with several infill panels still to go as of 6 p.m. “It doesn’t have to come at anyone’s cost, but student’s affordable housing needs can be met,” said Youbi Fansi. Council is expected to make a decision on the extent of the amendments to the infill policy at the end of June.
