The Fort St. James mayor and council voted in favour of creating a new zoning bylaw to allow for higher density development in certain areas.
The discussion came after a request by Paul Rust Architect Inc. for a change in zoning for the proposed senior housing facility they are currently designing for Stuart Drive East and Third Avenue.
The limitations of the present zoning would prevent the developer from building the 28 units they would prefer to build and only allow 20. As well, due to land coverage regulations included in the zoning, the developer would not be able to put in the covered inner courtyard for all-season protection for residents.
The developer is asking the municipality to allow a change from 80 units per hectare to 100 units per hectare and lot coverage to change from 40 per cent to 45 per cent.
Mayor and council gave direction for district staff to draft up a new zoning which would allow for higher-density development, to accomodate this and possible future development.