Lee Ave Apartment Complex

A proposed apartment complex in Penticton faced some resistance from community members on Monday night.

An amendment to the Official Community Plan has been proposed to have an area on Lee Avenue re-designated from low to medium residential density to allow a developer to build a five-story apartment complex.

Developer, Robert Guy, says he would like to build in Penticton.

"We've always taken the approach of getting as much information about the community as we can. We have spent a lot of time reviewing the official community plan. We have come to the conclusion that the zoning we are applying for will suit this area," says Guy.

However, many residents in the area don't agree.

"My neighbours and I canvassed the neighbourhood and found that most people are against this. Once you approve this building, it will open the door to developers to come in and make buildings just as they want, not as we want,"
says one Lee Street resident.

Lee Street resident James Pieano says he doesn't think five stories will fit into the neighbourhood.

"Growth is good, but smart growth is better. A two story apartment building would be a much better fit," says Pieano.

Councilor Joanne Grimaldi says she feels Penticton is at a crossroads.

"We need to bite the bullet here, either we say no to development and close the doors to Penticton or we do what we have done all through the city's history. That is development that is for the benefit for all citizens concerned. I believe this development will be quality and I am in favour of it, "says Grimaldi.

Council voted in favour of sending the proposal to a second and third reading.