Sheldon Appave, a custom homebuilder, was surprised by a $110,000 bill for sidewalk replacement from the City of Calgary for his new four-unit row house project in Windsor Park. Appave believes the levy is unjustified and burdensome, constituting around seven percent of the total build cost without adding value to the project.
The ongoing debate over zoning and density has become a focal point in the current election campaign. While some advocate for a complete repeal of blanket rezoning, others argue that it has reduced the cost of row housing by expediting permit processes. However, builders like Appave still face significant expenses, such as the concrete and streetlight wiring replacements.
Appave suggests adjustments to blanket rezoning to restrict row housing in low-density areas like Mount Royal, rather than a complete repeal, which he believes would exacerbate cost pressures and disrupt ongoing projects. Several mayoral candidates have proposed revising the blanket rezoning policy, with varying approaches and considerations for existing plans.
In the ward races, opinions on blanket rezoning are divided among candidates, as reflected in a survey by Calgarians for Thoughtful Growth. While some residents fear the impact of increased density on their neighborhoods, others seek affordable housing solutions to avoid long commutes.
A recent election poll revealed that a majority of Calgary residents are opposed to rezoning, highlighting the concerns and uncertainties surrounding the current zoning policies. The implications of repealing blanket rezoning remain a subject of contention, with advocates emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to urban development.
For residents like Pat Bezenar, the prospect of repealing zoning regulations offers hope of alleviating anxieties associated with disruptive developments. However, stakeholders like Rusty Miller of Calgarians for Thoughtful Growth stress the importance of a strategic reset in urban planning to address affordability, infrastructure, and community engagement.
While some residents favor a repeal to address individual property impacts, builders like Shameer Gaidhar caution against the potential uncertainties and increased costs that could arise from changing zoning regulations. Gaidhar emphasizes the affordability of row houses compared to single-family homes, highlighting the diverse housing needs within the community.
From a climate perspective, zoning policies could play a crucial role in promoting sustainable urban development. Robert Tremblay, a Sunalta resident and advocate for affordable housing, underscores the need for balanced zoning regulations to address climate concerns and housing affordability in Calgary’s evolving landscape.