Re-applications hot button issues for Council

May 31, 2023 | 9:51 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Plenty of development discussion at Council last night. Three re-zoning applications warranted discussion around Council Chambers”

The first involves a piece of vacant property at 611 Brunswick Street, which is the site of a former church. It was also home to a restaurant, more than one different pub and, finally, offices for Remax Realty. However, the building was destroyed by fire in 2021.

The property is being proposed for 80 units of mixed-used apartment housing.

The second re-zoning application that received first two readings is the former Queensway Motel, now the Fraser Inn, as well as the location of Direct Art.

BC Housing plans to convert those properties into supportive housing. There are questions around the model of that housing, referencing concerns that were raised years ago around the Friendship House, which was built at 17th and Queensway and is run by the Prince George Native Friendship Centre. However, Council was assured they have had no concerns around that location since it was established.

However, Council did not approve a zoning variance application for a property on Foothills Boulevard. The application was for several variances around parking, setbacks for the construction of a six-storey, 125 units of seniors housing. However, Council struggled with the application, with Acting Mayor Susan Scott noting “Perhaps more work on the part of the developer is warranted.”