Photo: Richard Hunter Architect

A 49-unit supportive housing project will go ahead at the corner of McCurdy and Rutland roads after all.

The property, previously owned by the Knights of Columbus, was rezoned two years ago for a recovery home for men fighting drug and alcohol addictions, to be operated by the Freedom's Door Society.

Council approved that rezoning 6-3, despite vocal opposition and a rousing public hearing where neighbours said they feared for their safety and those of their children.

At the time, some residents told individual councillors if anything happens, "it's on their head."

That project stalled when provincial funding dried up.

With rezoning confirmed Monday afternoon, council was left with approving form and character of the building and issuing a development permit.

That easily passed, with only Coun. Hodge, who says there is a flaw in the process, opposed.

Hodge was concerned there was no mechanism to return to the original zoning question, considering the property has a new owner, and the scope of the project has changed.

"Now, we are asked to vote yes or no on a project on form and character, but the project is not what it was. We have to vote based on the parameters we have," he said.

"I think I am going to find a problem with the design in order to dictate my decision."

And, while council was not asked to vote on the specifics of the project, many took the opportunity to make their feelings known.

"I want to acknowledge the concern in the community. Housing First is part of our solution to ending homelessness here in Kelowna. We have to make these courageous decisions," said Coun. Loyal Wooldridge.

"I am confident the service provider (Canadian Mental Health Association) that will be operating this site will do so in a respectful manner for the neighbourhood."

Coun. Brad Sieben, who voted against rezoning, had similar pleas for the CMHA.

"There is apprehension in the community, but council doesn't have the tools in its toolbox now, but, it is incumbent on the operator to ensure it functions property and integrates well into the community. I can't say that strongly enough," said Sieben.

Mayor Colin Basran, echoing comments of collaboration made by Coun. Ryan Donn, said it's time for people to get behind what the city is trying to do.

"The time to complain is over. We have a plan, and I applaud those who are getting behind the plan," said Basran.

"I want to thank the developer, I want to thank Knights of Columbus, I want to thank province and BC Housing for getting behind this plan and doing something about as opposed to just complaining."

The province announced the project last Thursday.

Construction is expected to begin later this summer with completion in the spring of 2021.