After a two-week delay stemming from concerns over tenant relocation, the six-storey development at 1730 Chesterfield Avenue can now be built.
City of North Vancouver council voted against giving the 87-unit rental project final approval on Sept. 17 after learning only 15 per cent of the displaced tenants had been successfully relocated. The development was intended to replace the three-storey, 43-unit building currently occupying the site.
Under questioning from Coun. Don Bell, city staff said the applicant had failed to provide displaced tenants with at least three North Shore housing options within 10 per cent of their current rent.
However, council gave the project final approval Oct. 1 after learning 23 out of 35 tenants had been relocated. The city staff report also included a series of testimonials from the building’s residents, with Andrew Buckley writing of the “highly professional” support he received from the building manager. Jessica Adams also noted her appreciation, although she added that “any additional help is greatly appreciated.”
The staff report also noted that the majority of the residents to be relocated have been shown between five and 10 comparable units in
the area.
Mayor Darrell Mussatto noted developer MacLean Homes has fulfilled the city’s requirements.
“I think it’s the right thing to do,” Mussatto said, explaining his decision to give the project final approval.
Bell remained steadfast in his objection, noting the city staff report did not change his position.
“I should add I had concern about the project for other reasons from the beginning so I will continue to oppose it,” Bell said.
Bell previously criticized the project for providing 56 stalls for the 87 units, which he suggested would exacerbate the scarcity of parking spots in the neighbourhood.
Despite previously voicing criticism over the lack of professionalism displayed in relocating tenants, Coun. Holly Back voted in favour of giving the project final approval.
Council voted 5-1 to approve the project with Bell opposed.
The project is set to consist of six studio apartments, 53 one-bedroom units, 18 two-bedroom units and 10 three bedroom units.
Nine of those apartments, including a three-bedroom unit and two two-bedroom units, are set to be offered at 10 per cent less than mid-market rates.
Council approved a six-storey, 48-unit rental project on three lots where West Sixth Street meets Chesterfield Avenue in July.
In 2017, council voted in favour of a five-storey, 34-unit rental building at 1549 Chesterfield Ave. as well as a 27-unit co-housing development over three lots on the 2100 block.
