Methodist Church approved in Coquitlam despite industrial land qualms

Council looked upon the development application and it was good.

Disciple Methodist Church is set to hold services at 1880 Coleman Ave and 1963 Lougheed Hwy following a unanimous vote from Coquitlam council Monday night.

The primary concern around the project was that it would essentially slice away a tiny portion of Coquitlam’s industrial land.

The project doesn’t align with city policy and could: “adversely affect the limited industrial and employment-generating lands within the city,” according to a city staff report. The project could also set a precedent for other houses of the holy keen to build a church in a site earmarked for a business enterprise.

Converting the area to a church could cut into the city’s commercial tax base, as the house of worship received $124,639 in statutory and permissive tax exemptions in 2024.

However, the site was never a great fit for industrial operations, noted Coun. Brent Asmundson, who added the property was difficult to lease due to challenges around access.

“This is a better use for this land,” Asmundson said. “I’ve always thought this was a strange piece for industrial.”

Mayor Richard Stewart agreed.

“If we had a blank slate today we wouldn’t say: ‘Well, that’s where the industrial goes next to the residential,” he said.

During a previous discussion, Stewart said he couldn’t remember the last time the site was used for an industrial business.

The project garnered several letters in support.

Burke Mountain resident Jennifer Lee described the church as offering support to immigrants, homeless people and refugees, as well as generally contributing to making Coquitlam a: “safe, friendly and welcoming place.”

The project involves renovating the building at 1963 Lougheed Highway to accommodate a chapel with a choir room and banquet hall. The Coleman Avenue house would be partially demolished to make room for 16 parking spots.