Approved projects to increase density

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This article was published 02/09/2022 (1311 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The East Kildonan-Transcona community committee was back in action, approving a number of development proposals, among other items, on Aug. 31.

During a lengthy public hearing, the committee approved a combined subdivision, rezoning, and variance application for two properties on Ravelston Ave. West, between Fiorentino Street and 1294 Ravelston Ave. W. The developer intends to turn the two 100-foot lots into eight 25-foot lots, and build eight side-by-sides on the property.

Frank Fiorentino, a longtime resident of Ravelston Avenue West, opposed the project. Speaking on behalf of himself and four other neighbours, Fiorentino told the committee he was “sure” he represented “most” of the remaining residents of the area.

“We are here this morning to tell you we are in adamant opposition to the variance proposal. We are of the opinion that the community committee is not acting in the best interest of our community,” Fiorentino said. “We used to live in a beautiful area, a country-like area on Ravelston Avenue West. I know things change and we have to change with it. But the way it was done … they wrecked our community.”

“Change in this area is difficult, and we know it’s difficult,” Coun. Shawn Nason (Transcona) acknowledged in his supporting remarks. “But we’re well past the point of unringing that bell. This is a reasonable use of that land.”

Another subdivision, rezoning, and variance application at nearby 1341 Ravelston Ave. W, where a 100-foot property with an existing single family home would be subdivided into two 50-foot lots, with a single-family home to be built on the new, vacant lot. Nobody spoke in opposition.

A combined subdivision, rezoning and variance application for 468 and 470 Henderson Hwy., from two single residential properties to one zoned for medium density, was approved to allow for the properties to be combined in order to build a 17-unit multifamily development, similar to the adjacent property to the north at 474 Henderson Hwy.

“This is consistent with surrounding developments on Henderson,” Coun. Jeff Browaty (North Kildonan) said.

A subdivision, rezoning, variance, and conditional use application for a property at 500 Regent Ave. W was discussed. As presented, city administration recommended against approval, citing a number of design elements, as well as lack of adequate parking, per the city’s bylaws. However, there was nobody registered in opposition to the project.

However, John Wintrup, speaking on behalf of the applicant, took issue with the reasons outlined by the city.

“This is the location where the City of Winnipeg should be allowing densification,” Wintrup said. “Plans are subject to change, and we’re willing to work with the community in terms of design of the building. We’re looking today for the concept to be approved. Many municipalities are moving towards eliminating parking minimums. I support that. This is the location for the intensification of land use.”

Following some heated debate between Wintrup and Nason, the matter was laid over until Sept. 23.

During the committee’s regular meeting, plans were approved for a new exterior to the multifamily development at 225 Peguis St., which is already under construction, and 901 Day St., where a new building will replace two vacant lots.

A per capita grant for $1,000 was approved from the Elmwood-East Kildonan ward towards costs of the recent Elmwood Night Market, while a grant from the same ward of $403 was approved for the Glenelm Neighbourhood Association’s ongoing tree banding initiative.

The committee heard from Transcona resident Doug Reimer, whose daughter Jordan was killed in a traffic accident at the intersection of Kildare Avenue West and Bond Street. Reimer, and others in the neighbourhood, have requested four-way stops to be added to a number of intersections in the area. The committee supported Nason’s motion requesting a report on the issue.

A report was also also requested to look at eliminating the minimum age requirement for citizens to serve on municipal commissions and boards.

“Encouraging young people to engage in democratic process is a good thing,” Browaty said. “In fact, we have trouble filling some boards and commissions, this may be an opportunity to do so.”

“I see a good opportunity to move into schools, to try to get them hooked early,” Nason, who brought the motion forward, added. “Getting them engaged in the democratic process is good all around for our democracy.”

Other reports the committee requested include a number regarding safety on transit buses, as well the the speed on Henderson Highway between Harbison Avenue and the Disraeli overpass, and reforestation efforts in Elmwood.