A 32-unit permanent supportive housing project should go ahead in the Onward Willow neighbourhood, says a city staff report.
The report, released Thursday, recommends city council approve a series of zoning amendments needed for the five-story project to be built on at the back of 85 and 89 Willow Rd. and accessed through an easement off Shelldale Crescent.
In recommending approval, staff explain the project conforms with provincial legislation and the city’s official plan.
Council is set to make a decision May 10.
The project is proposed in partnership between Kindle Communities, Guelph Community Health Centre (GCHC) and the current owners of the two properties – Skyline Group of Companies and Starlight Investments.
Support services are to be provided 24/7 by GCHC.
If ultimately approved, the owners intend to sever about 0.5-hectares of land off the rear of each property and donate it to Kindle, with the parcels joined to create a new lot. Both addresses are home to a six-storey apartment building with parking in the back.
Several specialized zoning requests would see a reduction in required parking as well as decreases to the minimum side yard, landscaped open space and common amenity areas.
“Staff note that the applicant made minor modifications to the proposed development in response to comments received, that resulted in minor changes to vehicular access and staff have also recommended additional specialized zoning regulations,” states the staff report. “These changes are considered to be minor and therefore staff recommend that no further public notice is required.”
During a public meeting last month, prior to revisions to the proposal, several residents of the area raised numerous concerns including the elimination of greenspace for existing apartment tenants, emergency vehicle access, reduced parking and general neighbourhood safety, with the site neighbouring Willow Road Public School and Willowdale Child Care & Learning centre.
The deadline to register as a delegate or make a written submission for the May 10 meeting is May 7 at 10 a.m. To register, visit guelph.ca/delegation, call 519-837-5603 or email [email protected].
