Five days later, Calgary rezoning hearing isn’t even halfway over

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The City of Calgary’s public hearing on the blanket rezoning won’t end anytime soon, as councilors prepare to hold another 12-hour meeting on Saturday.

As of 3:30 p.m. on Friday, councilors had heard from 80 panels, which is equivalent to 300 presenters.

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But with more than 860 Calgarians signed up to speak, the city’s largest-ever public hearing is still less than halfway complete, with 542 speakers missing. Registration is still open for more speakers.

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Mayor Jyoti Gondek initially suggested the public hearing could be extended into a second week. However, at this rate, the process could extend into a third week.

“It seems like we’ve talked to a lot of people and that’s what we’re here for,” he said Friday.

“We are committed to public service. We stand for election to do this work. Even when it’s something as big as this, we need to be present and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

The hearing relates to a proposed land use bylaw amendment that, if approved, would change the city’s base residential zoning district to grade-oriented residential infill (R-CG). Doing so would allow more types of low-density housing, such as duplexes and townhomes, to be developed in communities that are currently zoned only for single-family detached homes.

Currently, homeowners in those communities must apply for land use redesignation to convert a single-family home into other forms of construction. R-CG would eliminate that step, although a development permit would still be required.

The overall rezoning has been highly controversial, with presenters arguing passionately for or against the proposal since Monday morning.

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Advocates frequently argue that greater densification and variety of housing is necessary, and that a blanket rezoning would speed up the redevelopment process. Meanwhile, opponents say it would overload infrastructure, increase traffic and parking congestion, alter the character of the community and take away people’s right to submit comments on an individual rezoning proposal.

“Some things are repetitive, but I’m glad we’re listening to everyone,” County District 13 said. Dan McLean. “There are a lot of good discussions and good debates on both sides. It’s a good process and I’m glad we’re doing it.

“I still maintain that everyone could be heard at the same time with a plebiscite.”

After the public hearing is over, the council will spend time deliberating and possibly making amendments to the proposal before voting.

As the hearing continues next week, Gondek said the administration and city council will have to juggle other responsibilities and previously scheduled meetings as they arise. He noted that the April 30 regular council meeting will still be held that morning, considering its agenda has some urgent items. A meeting with civic partner representatives on May 1 will also not be rescheduled.

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While next week’s meetings could extend the public hearing even further, Gondek said the council has a duty to see the process through to the end.

“Of course, things are changing and juggling, but it’s important to listen to the public and that’s what we’re here for,” he said.

McLean echoed that sentiment, acknowledging that it has been difficult to balance the need to remain alert and focused during the hearing with other ward duties and responsibilities.

“I think we are juggling — We have to do it,” he said. “It’s difficult. People watch a little. Maybe 12 hours a day is too much, but we will do what we can.

“This will last as long as it takes.”

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