File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve / Q-101 Merritt

Merritt Growth

Controversial Merritt development gets thumbs-up from council

May 12, 2021 | 1:56 PM

MERRITT, B.C. — Merritt City Council has adopted zoning and official community plan amendments for the hotly-debated development on Spring Bank.

The now approved development went through two public hearings with multiple community members speaking against the project for wide range of reasons.

One of the concerns around density was addressed during third reading, as Council voted to reduce the project to R7 medium density.

Comments from concerned citizens were also focused on the need for a geotechnical survey of the land. City Staff confirmed that the completion of a survey is a requirement for a building permit to be issued.

“The geotech which is a concern, and I think its a very real concern. But its guaranteed (that the study will take place). The attorney general himself has said so, and if it doesn’t pass it won’t be built,” stated Coun. Kurt Christopherson.

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Other issues raised during the public hearings included the belief that the development would lower property values, ruin the quiet scenic neighbourhood feeling, and their picturesque views.

Some residents were confident that the proposal would bring with it increased crime to the area.

The housing is being funded by BC Housing and comes with the support of BC’s Attorney General and Housing Minister David Eby.

BC Housing has stated that the Province, through BC Housing, Nicola Native Lodge Society, and Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA), are working on a proposed housing project to build 40 new affordable rental homes for Indigenous Peoples in Merritt. These homes are geared to families, singles, and Elders.

The current proposal outlines, 15 studio units for youth and elders, 17 one-bedroom for elders, six two-bedroom for families, and six three-bedroom for families. The housing will also have two units specifically designed for residents who need wheelchair accessibility.