Business association walks back opposition to Beverly Motel transitional housing project

The Beverly Business Association has changed its tune on a transitional housing project the association previously said it would "firmly oppose."

The association submitted an appeal against the project's permit, arguing it would "significantly damage" revitalization for 118th Avenue.

At the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board on Thursday, a representative said the association board now has faith in the project.

Alex Bosker, BBA executive director, said while the association would prefer a commercial space on the lot, under the current circumstances, the transitional housing project is "the best possible option for the Beverly Motel space."

Bosker said the association board wanted to send a message about protecting commercial districts from residential projects. 

"Our board felt the need to carry this appeal … to set a precedent for the next one that may come along to rezone and put in something potentially less organized with real consequences to our community," Bosker said.

SDAB officials clarified that the lot is zoned for mixed use, making the project compliant with the zoning.

'I'm genuinely confused,' owner says

The Native Counselling Services of Alberta and the landowner said the appeal was an unnecessary drain on public resources.

"I'm genuinely confused by the circumstances we find ourselves in here today," Mohamed Ahmed, the owner said.

"One must wonder, is this appeal truly about principle or is it just performance?"

Blake Jackman, NCSA's director of housing, said the original launch date was scheduled for July 2, and the delays created by the appeal have led to approximately $200,000 in federal and provincial funding being lost.

"But beyond dollars and cents, the human cost of this delay is real," Jackman said.

"Staff are trained and ready to work. Individuals who could be housed remain without stability in the Beverly community, living in back alleys, storefronts, parks, yards and streets."

The project had received 17 letters of support from community members, politicians and local businesses.

Another concern brought forward in the written appeal was not being able to collect a business levy from a residential project in the district. But Jackman said this concern was never raised in engagements between NCSA and the BBA — and they have since committed to paying the levy for up to five years.

A member of the public, Joshua Goldberg, spoke in favour of the project and said many years ago he was homeless, but now lives and shops in the area.

"I've been trying to understand … why on earth anyone would object to this project."

Goldberg suggested the BBA withdraw their appeal. 

"There are other ways to make a point," he said.

When given the opportunity to respond, representatives from the BBA had nothing further to add.

The SDAB will submit a written decision on the appeal in 15 days.