Coldstream continues to hammer down some record building stats.
With four months left in the year, the number of housing units to date is almost twice that for the same period in 2013. The total value of construction exceeds 2013 by nearly $600,000.
Just for the period of Aug. 1 to 19, 15 permits were issued with a combined value of $5.5 million.
“This compares to 12 permits and construction value of $2,799,500 for the same month last year,” reports Bob Bibby, building official.
July proved to be just slightly slower, with seven permits issued with a value of $3.51 million, compared to 12 permits for July 2013 with a value of $3.53 million.
“Total construction value to date exceeds the 2013 total for the entire year, with a full four months left to go,” said Bibby.
Panhandle opposed
Coldstream prides itself in rural living at its best, which includes larger-than-average lot sizes, and it’s going to keep it that way.
A recent subdivision application sparked the debate over panhandle lots, where a second lot is created with a narrow strip of land for a driveway leading to a rear lot.
“I don’t think we’re ready for panhandle lots,” said Coun. Doug Dirk, noting that a lot of older lots created in the ‘70s are the larger lots which can accommodate this type of subdivision.
Coun. Richard Enns added: “Coldstream had a history of creating these and they cause a number of issues.”
There are also concerns of setting a precedent, which could lead to additional panhandle applications.
“It’s not the kind of densification I’d be in favour of,” said Coun. Maria Besso.
