Revised Belmont Village condo proposal proves to be a hot topic

A revised plan for an 11-storey condo development in Kitchener’s Belmont Village district is generating so much public interest, City Hall scheduled two nights to hear feedback.

Developer Zehr Group wants to build an 11-storey, mixed-use development at 660 Belmont Avenue West, at the site of a former car mechanic shop. The building would have 132 residential units, including 92 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom spaces. The ground floor would be reserved for retail and restaurant use.

Buildings in Belmont Village are capped at eight storeys, so the developer's original 13-storey proposal was shot down. The developer would still require a zoning bylaw amendment to move forward with its current application.

Other changes in the revised plan include the potential for buying part of a laneway on Belmont Lane East and a revised parking layout.

Monday night saw the first 25 public presenters providing feedback on the updated plan.

Some say the plan would change the area's unique streetscape and character, with concerns that included a loss of character in the area and the shadow the building would cast.

"Residents and tourists are attracted by quaint, cute human-scale retro elements," said delegate Bard Trotter. "Nobody says 'let's go visit that charming skyscraper.'"

"Are we going to allow the vision of one entity, driven by the goal of profit to dictate the future of Belmont," questioned another delegate Maureen Ferraro.

Questioned by council about the height, a planner working with the developer said from a viability standpoint, the development "just doesn't work at eight storeys."

Others welcomed the proposed building.

"The truth is the region needs more places like 660 Belmont for me and my wife who don't want to limit downsizing options, leaving us stuck in a house we've outgrown," said delegate Allen Toews.

Wednesday night saw a second round of 22 public presenters, with a similar tone as Monday's meeting.

Most delegates opposed the plan, saying a mixed-use 11 storey condo simply doesn't fit with the character of Belmont Village.

But councillors weren't shy about speaking up Wednesday night either.

"When you talk about inclusivity, this (development) will allow upwards of 200 additional families into this neighbourhood, where if this were not to be developed, if it were to remain a low-rise or what it is right now, they would never have the opportunity to buy into this neighbourhood," said Counc. Paul Singh.

One of the delegates, Rafael Sorkin, voiced concerns that councillors are already sold on the idea of this development.

"Councillor (Singh), when I listen to you, I have no reason to change my mind that the deal is done. You are acting as a cheerleader for this proposal."

Just before midnight, the committee voted to defer any motions, amendments, or approvals until the staff referrals were presented to city council again on Feb. 28.

Coun. Margaret Johnston is suggesting the city should conduct a planning review for the future of Belmont Village. If approved, it would become part of the city's official plan review in early 2023.

"From tonight and Monday night, it is obvious that the delegates put a lot of time into what they presented to us," said Coun. Dave Schnider. "The emails we received on both sides of the issue, I think some more time to go through them, digest them, ponder them, would be very, very helpful.

"I don't want to rush this decision, and I want to assure everyone the decision is not made in my mind yet."