Parksville city staff will look into regulatory options for adding employee housing and affordable studio units as accessory uses to commercial and industrial zones.
Coun. Mark Chandler brought the motion forward and said he would like the city to explore developing housing options on properties such as the former Jim’s Gym location, for example. He said he hoped it would help local businesses retain staff.
“At the backs of these properties, and several of them that are available, they look onto green space,” he said. “It’s to try to have staff in this area, rather than them living in Nanaimo because they can’t find something here.”
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The motion was included on the agenda in lieu of notice so council could vote during the June 20 regular meeting, where it was carried.
When asked by the city’s chief administrative officer where the initiative fits into staff priorities, Chandler said it did not need to happen right away and could be investigated next council term.
— NEWS Staff