There’s been consultation over proposed expansion of a Coldstream seniors residence, but that doesn’t mean the process is over.
Coldstream council agreed Monday that the normal referral of the proposed official community plan amendment for Coldstream Meadows has provided sufficient opportunity for consultation with affected neighbours, organizations and authorities.
However, Coun. Pat Cochrane wants to assure residents that the district still wants to hear from them.
“We will still have to go through a public hearing,” he said of any amendments to the OCP.
The owners of Coldstream Meadows are calling for a change which would increase the number of permitted units on the Mackie Drive site from 160 to 270.
The current OCP limits the area of the property that can be developed and places a cap on the number of units that can be constructed.
Before an OCP bylaw amendment is prepared, the district must consider which agencies it will consult with on the matter.
“Specifically, council must give thought to whether consultation is required with the board of the local regional district, the council of adjacent municipalities, First Nations, school districts and the provincial and federal government,” said Mike Reiley, director of development services, in a memo to council.
“Given the relatively minor nature of the proposed amendment and the fact that the district is embarking on a major review of the OCP in the upcoming months, staff do not feel it is necessary to formally consult with these groups regarding this amendment.”
The proposal will be sent to the Regional District of North Okanagan and there have been discussions with the Interior Health Authority about licensed care facilities.
