News photo Collin Gallant
Lots in Saamis Heights have been rezoned to medium-density residential after a public hearing earlier this week.
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Eight residential units can be built on five formerly single-family home lots in Saamis Heights after city council endorsed a zoning change on Monday.
That means duplexes, according to the developer, not apartment buildings could also be built on the land now designated for medium-residential development.
Approved 9-0, councillors said the duplex plans – presented during the hearing – appears to it fits with the area and could be become a blueprint for other proposals.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to see a responsible proven developer… and the proposal that he wants to do,” said Coun. Robert Dumanowski.
“The criticism I’ve always heard over the years with duplex developments is that they are cookie cutter, boxy developments.”
He felt the project could provide a good example of adding stylish new multi-unit buildings in a number of communities.
The city’s land department is the current owner of the five lots – Nos. 2 through 18 Sierra Green, S.W. – though it has a conditional sale agreement dependent on rezoning, with Patel Dream Builders Corp.
“We really want to come out with a modern structure, not a traditional duplex, at an affordable price,” said Nail Patel during a video-conferencing address to council.
He said that he has lived in Medicine Hat since 2013 and has previously built commercial projects and invested in businesses.
“It’s our first housing project, but we are determined that it won’t be our last housing project.”
The plan would also widen the lots, essentially redrawing four lots for duplexes out of the current five that are contiguous along the block.
The city-led development was opened in 2015, but has been dogged by criticism that lots were too narrow to match market demand.
After little activity, it was the subject of a bulk sale to Landsdowne Equity Ventures in 2020, which suggested redrawing property lines could lead to greater uptake, though the properties reverted to the city last year.
Three written submissions were received opposing the change and Saamis resident Logan Schafer told the public hearing that higher density housing won’t work in the suburban community.
“There’s a four-plex already with vehicles plugging the street in front of our houses and I can only see it getting worse,” he said.
“It’s the primary route in and out.”
Residents appeared at the hearing to object stating concerns over the potential of increased congestion in the area, which is close to a school and a church on an adjoining street.
Land values were another major concern.
“For me it’s not a significant change (and a) a welcome addition in a community (Medicine Hat) that’s in desperate need of missing middle housing (stock),” said Coun. Alison Van Dyke.
