Charlottetown’s city council has scheduled a public meeting in early September to gather feedback from residents on the proposed new zoning and development bylaw. This bylaw outlines construction regulations and designated areas within the city. According to Coun. Alanna Jankov, the deputy mayor of Charlottetown, staff members are currently reviewing the input received during various open house sessions.
Jankov, who heads the planning and heritage committee, emphasized the importance of residents seeking clarification and posing questions during the upcoming meeting. She highlighted the directive given to staff and consultants to focus on addressing the concerns raised by residents regarding the provision allowing for the addition of up to three units to existing homes in specific residential zones.
The main topic of concern among residents, as reported by Jankov and some council members, revolves around the provision for four units as-of-right. Jankov expressed optimism that the public meeting will help elucidate the contents of the extensive 200-page draft document.
To convert a residential property into multiple units, property owners must designate it as their principal residence. The city’s zoning map will delineate applicable residential zones where up to four units can be established, with some potentially allowing for three units.
Notably, Charlottetown faced a setback of $1.26 million in federal funding due to delays in implementing the new zoning and development bylaw. This funding clawback stemmed from the city’s failure to meet stipulated timelines outlined in the Housing Accelerator Fund agreement signed with the federal government in 2024.
With a municipal election scheduled for November in Charlottetown, Jankov expressed her desire for the council to finalize the bylaw before the election, aiming to fulfill the work initiated during the current term. The council is considering placing a full-page advertisement in a local newspaper to promote the public meeting, with Jankov endorsing the idea as a means to attract more residents to participate in the discussion.