Residents concerned over new project
APM Group president Tim Banks addresses members of Charlottetown city council, public on new development
A local developer says he is being treated unfairly by Charlottetown city council when it comes to getting his newest project underway.
Tim Banks, APM Group president, addressed council last night during a public meeting at the Rodd Charlottetown Hotel with revisions he made to a 23-unit apartment complex he wants to build at 55 and 59 Richmond St.
In August, council voted 6-4 against the construction due to concerns about the proximity between the decks of an existing condominium and the proposed development.
During the meeting, Banks addressed that concern, saying the new plans show the balconies in question have been removed after hearing concerns from some residents who live in The Rochford condominiums next to where the proposed build will go.
Condo president Daniel Hurnik said there’s more that needs to be addressed.
“It doesn’t address the parking issue, it doesn’t address the close proximity with the building. The lot’s too small, it’s simple,” he told The Guardian following the meeting. “The building should be built, but on a lot with parking. Everyone deserves parking.”
Banks said he was disappointed in the approach the condo group has taken with respect to the project.
“We’ve done everything in our power to work with them and to co-operate with them and they don’t seem to want to work with us,” he said. “Parking is no issue.”
Banks, who has been in front of council many times over the years with his various projects, said he was being treated unfairly.
“A hundred per cent, because a lack of leadership on behalf of the mayor.”
Mayor Clifford Lee said rules apply to all builders.
“Even he needs to follow the rules, same as any other developer in the city,” he said. “I have a responsibility to encourage good development in the city. I also have a responsibility to protect the investment that citizens have already made in the city.”
Lee also said he felt the public meeting was productive.
“I think the fact that Mr. Banks today eliminated patios that were 12 inches apart was a very positive move and I think it will move the project further into a possibility of becoming a reality.”
The project will go to the planning board on Nov. 6.