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Understanding the citywide rezoning debate
As Calgary gears up for its municipal election this October, a significant issue is emerging that could shape the future of the city: citywide rezoning. This policy, which allows for higher-density housing types, has sparked intense debate among residents and political candidates alike.
The newly formed political party, Communities First, is at the forefront of this discussion, vowing to repeal the controversial policy if they gain a majority in the upcoming election.
The city council’s decision last spring to change the base residential zoning to R-CG has been met with mixed reactions.
While proponents argue that it facilitates the development of much-needed housing, critics claim it undermines community input and leads to unwanted changes in neighborhood dynamics. Councillor Andre Chabot emphasized the discontent among residents, stating, “People were really upset, and it’s what we’ve heard over and over again since the decision was made.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among Calgarians about the direction of their city’s development.
The impact of the new zoning policy
Since the implementation of the new zoning policy on August 6, Calgary has seen a dramatic increase in development permits for rowhouses and townhouses, with a staggering 271% rise compared to the previous year.
This surge indicates a shift towards higher-density living, which some view as a necessary evolution in urban planning. However, critics like Councillor Sonya Sharp argue that the process has removed community voices from the equation, leading to a divide among residents.
“It’s about removing people from the process and that is what’s pinning people against each other,” she stated.
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has remained neutral on the issue, emphasizing her commitment to providing diverse housing options for all residents. She noted, “I want to make sure everyone has all of those options in all communities in this city, that’s the job I was elected to do.” This highlights the balancing act that city officials must perform as they navigate the complexities of urban development and community needs.
Political maneuvering ahead of the election
With the election date approaching, various candidates are positioning themselves on the rezoning issue. Former councillor Jeff Davison has also expressed intentions to repeal the policy, while Jeromy Farkas criticized it as a “failure of leadership.” The political landscape is rapidly evolving, with candidates attempting to define key issues that resonate with voters. Lori Williams, a policy studies professor, noted that the main election question can shift dramatically as the election date nears, making it difficult to predict the dominant theme of the campaign.
Communities First, composed of several sitting councillors, is leveraging the rezoning debate to galvanize support. Their strategy appears to be aimed at creating a clear ballot box question that could sway voters in their favor. However, critics argue that this approach may be more about political gain than genuine community concern. As the election draws closer, it will be crucial for voters to critically assess the candidates’ positions and the implications of their proposed policies on Calgary’s future.
