Apologetic Coquitlam council approves rental apartments in single-family neighbourhood

It’s not that it’s good, it’s just that it’s better than it might be.

Reluctantly, frustratedly, and in one case apologetically, Coquitlam council unanimously approved a project that would put three six-storey market rental apartment buildings in a single-family neighbourhood.

Totalling 446 units and spanning 12 lots over 3.2 acres on Appian Way and Perth Avenue, the project is more density than was previously envisioned for the neighbourhood – but less density than what might be built.

“The proposal could come back much denser with no setbacks, no parking . . . and we have no say,” explained Coun. Teri Towner. “I will hold my nose and support this.”

Due to provincial legislation regarding developments inside of transit-oriented areas, the proposal could be eight storeys.

“The risk is if we decline it, then we lose the setbacks and the graduated height,” Towner said.

The project is set to replace single-family houses in the neighbourhood.

Coun. Brent Asmundson explained that the proposal on the table is better than what the developer is allowed to build under the provincial legislation.

“It is what’s needed in the neighbourhood. It’s the right type of housing,” he said.

Coun. Dennis Marsden struck a different tone.

“This isn’t what was needed,” he said, noting the plan for graduated density that likely would have meant townhouses being built on a portion of the site.

However, the city’s plan for the neighbourhood was essentially cast aside.

“I’m pissed off,” Marsden said. “Now we find ourselves in a situation where we’re trying to make chicken soup out of chicken crap.”

Marsden emphasized that the site could not be allowed to fall into disrepair while the developer awaits an upswing in the housing market.

Other councillors also lamented the decision, with Coun. Robert Mazzarolo saying “I’m sorry,” and Coun. Craig Hodge explaining that he’d never felt as “boxed-in” during a vote.

The mood was uniformly begrudging, observed Coun. Trish Mandewo.

Mandewo noted that rejecting the proposal could lead to a developer taking legal action against Coquitlam.

“If we say no, it is a risk to the city,” she said.

Approximately 55 trees are set to be removed and 136 replacement trees are set to be planted. The 23 trees near the stream are slated to be retained.

Cash on the table

If approved, the developer would pay the city approximately $12 million in development cost charges and community amenity contributions.

The project consists of 257 one-bedroom units, 140 two-bedroom units, and 49 three-bedroom units.

Rather than provide 28 child care spaces, Anthem Properties is set to make a contribution to the city’s child care reserve fund.

The project includes a total of 407 parking spots.