Events

Save the Date:

Oct. 13 - THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

Oct. 14 - UCW meeting - 1:00pm in Friendship Hall

Nov. 21 - Potluck & Movie Night 6:00pm in Friendship Hall

Nov. 22 - UCW Christmas Muffin Party

Update on Development Beside Our Church

City Council has approved the application for a 17-storey apartment building by TVM on the property next to our church. After considerable debate, the vote was 7–4 in favour of the proposal. Both those supporting and opposing the application pointed to the City’s Official Plan, but in the end, consistency with the Plan carried the day.

While a few minor details remain, they are expected to be resolved in due course.

This project is significant for our community. It represents both growth and opportunity. A development of this scale will contribute substantially to the City’s tax base—an estimated $500,000 annually where none existed before. To put that in perspective: five similar projects would add about $2 million in revenue, equivalent to roughly 1% of the City’s tax base, with little increase in operating costs. 

The City has emphasized that the Hunter Street property aligns with the goal of creating walkable neighbourhoods and meets the Province’s growth strategy. As the CAO noted, this kind of development is essential for our community’s future.

Understandably, some concerns were raised during the public process. Many reflected the challenges of shifting perspectives on housing. Today, fewer people can afford a $700,000 home or want to take on a 30-year mortgage. Rental housing of this nature helps provide stability for the next generation.

This project may well act as a catalyst for further development, offering long-term benefits to the city as a whole. While local issues can feel pressing, it is worth remembering the broader picture: we live in complex times, and thoughtful, innovative solutions are needed to serve our communities well.

As economist, Friedrich Hayek, observed in the 1930s, “When east becomes west and west becomes east, the world will be in turmoil.” His words remind us that change is a constant—and meeting it with creativity and courage is part of our calling.

Daryl Bennett