A proposed development on Shaw Road that saw two sessions of contentious public hearings was given the green light by Gibsons council Aug. 5.
In addition to giving the green light for the 20-unit project facilitated by Longman Developments, council voted to proceed with lifting a covenant limiting the number of dwellings on the site as well as making an amendment to the Town's official community plan (OCP) in order for the project to get underway.
Most of council read personal statements at the special council meeting last Friday before coming to the all-inclusive decision before the packed gallery of residents.
The statements made by councillors were based on a variety of common concerns they heard from citizens at the public hearings, where tensions were highly visible between those on the yes and no sides of the development.
Many citizens in the immediate project area said they were against the project and cited numerous concerns including an increase in traffic and noise as well as parking issues that come along with multi-unit developments. Another major concern was the loss of privacy for neighbouring homeowners due to the project's density and loss of property value.
One citizen firmly against the project said he felt apartment homes would "cheapen the community" and potential rental units could bring in "undesirables."
Those supporting the development said it would create jobs and provide lower cost housing, which, they argued, are both desperately needed in Gibsons.
Coun. Gerry Tretick cited his support for the project, saying the Town has recognized affordable housing as an issue.
"The times have changed and we need to adapt to what is best for the community," Tretick said. "One of the biggest problems on the Coast is the lack of jobs that can support the cost of housing. We need more well-paying jobs and more affordable housing. This one project identifies both of these issues."
Coun. LeeAnn Johnson presented a slideshow of images she had taken of the site, currently a grassy, empty lot. She said while she's concerned about the privacy of the project's neighbours, she had to support the project.
"I think it needs some modifications, but housing in this form meets the needs of the community," Johnson said.
Mayor Barry Janyk concurred there were shortfalls in the project that needed amendments, adding he questioned the number of units in the project, before he decided on a yes vote.
"I pondered long and hard on the implications of density on the neighbourhood versus the benefits of density for the broad community I strive to serve," Janyk said.
"But if density is one tool that can allow for those on fixed, moderate and limited incomes to attain their own homes, I believe every neighbourhood has to share in making this dream possible in this great community."
Council tasked Town staff to work with Long-man Developments on amendments to the project concerning privacy and other design issues before commencement.
The meeting adjourned with gallery members both booing and congratulating council on their decision.
