The Executive Director of the Downtown Kelowna Association says City Council's decision to move the downtown re-development plan to public hearing is a positive first step.

John Parrott, says there are still some questions that need to be answered, but believes the public hearing is the proper platform for the public to ask the questions that need to be asked.

He says the DKA is struggling with some of the things council questions, especially when it comes to the Royal Trust site.

"Both those things have been discussed at our board level, and we are still grappling with the Royal Trust site as it is perceived to be parkland," says Parrott.

"We recognize it is still zoned commercial. It was purchased by the City as a commercial piece of land, so I think that is something were are still coming to terms with at the boardroom table."

Parrott adds with respect to heritage properties, the DKA does recognize they do have value with respect to the fabric of their neighbourhood.

"A lot of those buildings have had recent facade improvements and so their heritage use and authenticity is still something that gets discussed a lot as well."

He says the public hearing process will give, not only members of the public a chance to comment, but also downtown property owners and the DKA a chance to make comments on what is being proposed.

Parrott says not all downtown property owners are on board with the proposal, but again, says the public hearing process will give those owners a chance to air their concerns.

"It's a bit of a mixed bag. Some are excited and some realize this is an opportunity where potentially their property values could increase, others are looking to be part of the potential new plan and some are concerned or have some concerns."

He adds the DKA does have some specific concerns, including public parking, how property owners are treated, inclusion of mixed use buildings and focus on pedestrians.

The public hearing will take place at the Rotary Centre for the Arts at 4 p.m. Monday, October 20.