06/20/2023
We represent the 700/800 block of the Bernard Heritage District and have concerns now that the City of Kelowna will support multi-family redevelopment on this block.
In this one block we have 14 properties on the City of Kelowna’s Heritage Register that have been recognized as having significant heritage value to the community, many with historical associations to the city’s pioneer families. We have a walking-tour brochure of these properties along with 13 information plaques. Besides the heritage homes, the block is characterized by green space and mature trees that provide a graciousness to the area. Sixteen businesses and societies, some having been granted Heritage Revitalization Agreements by the City of Kelowna choose to operate here, and are in harmony with the residents.
Since the City of Kelowna recently revised the OCP (Official Community Plan) our Heritage District is no longer protected from new multi-family developments replacing our homes, removing trees, and altering our street significantly. As with most of downtown Kelowna we have been included in C-NHD which means the City would support multi-family redevelopment on our block.
We feel this was an error on the part of the City. Fortunately we have a lot of owners on this block who exude pride of ownership and are united in our wish to maintain the integrity and charm of our unique historical block.
Hopefully the City of Kelowna will listen to the neighbours input through re-zoning and permit processes. If it's not possible to stop re-zoning, we should be able to have some input as to form and design, streetscape, construction materials etc.
Recent MLS listings/sales have advertised the re-zoning potential to multi-family, so we should be ready to act. Anyone wanting to develop multi-family on this block will see we are a community that cares.
This is a beautiful, lush gateway opening to the Bernard business area between here and the lake. We feel his block represents Kelowna's history, and that needs to continue to be valued and protected.
Concerns over the above can be emailed to [email protected]
This page was created to connect and keep informed as many residents of this block as possible, not only regarding redevelopment but also any other issues such as crime.
