Grey Highlands is making a couple of alterations to a proposed apartment building for Markdale.
Council approved changing the zoning from heavy industrial to residential multiple during a meeting on Jan. 17. This was in addition to two other changes for the the proposed six-storey build on 233 Main Street West, which includes 180 units.
During discussions, council went over the features of the proposed apartment building, including the cost of the units.
A report from Manager of Planning Matt Rapke says, “the proponent has expressed that the units will be affordable and a member of council asked if there is any guarantee of affordability. There is no guarantee that the units will be rented at a rate that everyone considers affordable, however, the construction of 180 purpose-built-rental units is projected to be a modest 750 square feet. This is a housing type that is generally lacking within the community, and the market-rate for this form of housing is inherently lower and therefore more affordable than single-detached and townhouse dwellings.”
Coun. Joel Loughead raised concerns over the height of the proposed six-storey building in Markdale and how it might look out of place in the community.
“It’s a big leap for this municipality, it’s a big leap for Markdale. Although we are talking about affordable housing and maximizing potential within the allotted area, it truly does not sit well with me to go from mostly two-storey buildings to six,” says Loughead.
Council approved an amendment from Mayor Paul McQueen to make sure each unit in the apartment has a parking spot rather than a parking situation suggested by staff, which would only see 135 spaces for the 180 unit building.
McQueen says, “if 1:1 ratio not assigned parking is a problem, then lets assign it, one space per apartment and it is up to the individuals to have an agreement between the landlord. If they don’t want that, they have that option.”
Council approved the amendment to ensure a parking spot is available for each unit.
After making this adjustment, Deputy Mayer Dane Nielsen proposed not moving forward with constructing on-street parking along the front of the proposed property, which was supported by council.
