The proposed construction of a five-storey apartment building in Penticton got its first endorsement from city council Tuesday, June 6.
Local politicians unanimously approved two variances to allow for the 35-unit rental plan to proceed at 1042, 1050 and 1060 Government Street.
The development will face King Street and include a total of 39 parking spaces.
“One of the things I really appreciate about this project is where the location of the parking is, adjacent to Government Street and King Street,” said Coun. Isaac Gilbert.
Access from King Street will lead to a parking lot that’s partially underneath the first level of the building and most of the 35 units will have their own private balcony.
Not all of the 39 parking spaces, however, will be underground. Some vehicles will be parked outside on King Street, according to the plan.
Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield confirmed Tuesday that the development will not be categorized as “affordable housing.”
“It will be market rent,” he said in response to a question from the public.
City officials received four letters regarding the project, both from a pair of nearby properties. A lack of parking on King Street was among the concerns shared.
The three lots in question are currently occupied by three single-detached homes.
City council on Tuesday approved a pair of variances to allow for the plan to proceed: one for the increase to the maximum percentage of off-street small car parking spaces and another to waive the requirement for a landscape buffer.
The property was already zoned for the proposed density.
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