Residents protest duplex development with signs

PENTICTON – Residents of Churchill Avenue have erected signs in protest of the development of a double-duplex on their street — an issue that will be discussed during a public hearing and Penticton city council meeting next week.

The property at 701 Churchill Ave. is being developed by local developer Schoenne Homes. The development requires a zoning change from small residential to duplex, which, according to neighbours’ signs, is not wanted by all.

Several neighbours wrote emails and letters to mayor and council expressing their concern about the development and asking officials to “save our neighbourhood.” They said there is already limited parking on the street, which is becoming increasingly dangerous for families with young kids.

“We don’t need developers building to the limits,” wrote Cindy DePourcq-Lecuyer and Steph Lecuyer. They suggested developing single-family homes rather than duplexes because they don’t want to see an increase in density on their street.

However, more than 100 emails were sent to mayor and council expressing support of the project, some saying the property needs a “facelift” and Schoenne’s plans will do just that.

Neighbours and supporters will have a chance to speak directly to mayor and council at the public hearing, which starts at 6 p.m., Monday, Nov. 3 at City Hall. Council will discuss the development during the regular council meeting, which starts immediately after the public hearing.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Meaghan Archer at marcher@infotelnews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.