A Central Saanich development proposal was going to move to a public hearing, but didn’t move forward after the project was shot down by council in late October.
The building was meant to provide affordable housing geared towards veterans and seniors. It was intended to be built on the corner of Hovey and East Saanich Roads.
This development, to be built by Victoria-based Aryze Developments, was proposed to replace five single-family homes with a six-storey building with 62 rental units for seniors.
It was also to have a four-storey building with 130 rental units constructed—13 of which would be designated as below-market homes.
South Vancouver Island Housing Society was intended to own and operate the building situated beside the Legion Manor retirement community next door. The Legion Manor already offers affordable housing for seniors and veterans, but has a long waitlist to get in.
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The initial vote in late October failed due to a 3 to 3 vote, with one Central Saanich councillor not present.
One of the major concerns councillors who voted against sending the proposal to a public hearing was the density of the project.
Since then, a motion has been brought forward to reconsider the project and advance it with a public hearing. This motion was brought forward after backlash from the community, which included personal attacks on Central Saanich Mayor, Ryan Windsor.
The development proposal will now be sent back to the council chambers, this time with all councillors present, on Monday, November 25th.
