Charlottetown city council is organizing a public gathering in early September to listen to residents’ opinions on the proposed new zoning and development bylaw for the city. This bylaw sets rules on construction locations and types within Charlottetown. Deputy Mayor Alanna Jankov mentioned that there have been multiple open house sessions, and the council is currently reviewing the feedback received.
Jankov, who heads the planning and heritage committee, emphasized the importance of residents asking questions and seeking clarification during the upcoming meeting. She highlighted the council’s directive to focus on the key aspects of the zoning and development bylaw that will impact residents the most.
One significant concern raised by residents, according to Jankov and some council members, revolves around the provision for four units as-of-right, allowing homeowners in specific residential areas to add up to three additional units to their primary residence. Jankov expressed hope that the public meeting would offer clarity on the details outlined in the extensive 200-page draft document.
To convert a residential property into multiple units, Jankov explained that the property must serve as the owner’s principal residence. Additionally, a zoning map indicating applicable residential zones for four units and areas where three units could be permitted will be provided.
The city faced a setback of $1.26 million from Ottawa due to missing deadlines related to implementing the new zoning and development bylaw, including provisions for four units as-of-right. Charlottetown had signed an agreement with the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund in 2024, necessitating changes to building permits and zoning as part of the $10-million initiative.
With a municipal election scheduled for November in Charlottetown, Jankov expressed her desire for the council to finalize the bylaw before the election, affirming her confidence in completing the ongoing work within the current term.
Coun. Mitchell Tweel suggested running a full-page advertisement in a local newspaper to promote the public meeting, a proposal supported by Jankov as a means to meet legislative standards and attract more attendees to the event.