Population = congestion

More density does not equal more taxes, and "urban quality" would not mean less property taxes.

Do the math on 450 condos and 450 single family homes – the city would collect significantly more on single family properties.

While increased density can and will increase congestion in some areas, density equals lower taxes to the taxpayer – 450 residences on one block needs only one block of water/sewer service lines, one block of sidewalks, one block of roadways to maintain and snowplow, etc.

Single family homes would require miles of these services, which causes a burden on the tax base. Police have to cover a larger service area, as do fire and ambulance. It costs the city way more to service an individual in a single family home than a condo.  

Population equals congestion, period. Look at cities such as Calgary or Edmonton. They are quite free to sprawl into the next empty field and have for years. Try driving on their freeways at rush hour across the city. They deal with high crime rates in the sprawled out neighbourhoods because of the sheer geographical size each officer needs to cover.

Luckily, there are many communities in B.C. with small populations that would welcome new residents with open arms, if the prosperous, enjoyable and fun lifestyle Kelowna offers is not for you. 

Dave Babych