Charlottetown city council is organizing a public gathering in early September to gather feedback from residents on the proposed new zoning and development bylaw for the city. This bylaw outlines construction regulations and permissible locations within the city. According to Coun. Alanna Jankov, Charlottetown’s deputy mayor, multiple open house sessions have taken place, and municipal staff are currently reviewing the feedback received.

Jankov, who heads the planning and heritage committee, expressed the hope that attendees at the meeting will actively engage by asking questions and seeking clarification. She emphasized the directive given to staff and consultants to focus on the key aspects of the zoning and development bylaw that will directly impact residents. One major concern raised by residents, as highlighted by Jankov and some councillors, pertains to the provision allowing the addition of up to four units in specific residential areas without requiring special permissions.

The goal of the upcoming public meeting is to provide clarity on the contents of the extensive 200-page draft document. Jankov explained that property owners looking to convert their residence into multiple units must establish it as their primary dwelling before commencing the process. Additionally, there is a zoning map indicating the residential zones in the city where the provision for four units may apply, with some areas potentially allowing up to three units.

Charlottetown faced a $1.26 million funding deduction from the federal government due to delays in implementing the new zoning and development bylaw, including the provision for four units without additional approvals. The city had entered into a Housing Accelerator Fund agreement with Ottawa in 2024, requiring adjustments to building permits and zoning regulations as part of the $10 million initiative. Following an assessment, Charlottetown was found to be in breach of its commitments, according to a recent news release from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

With the upcoming municipal election in November, Jankov expressed the urgency for the council to finalize the bylaw before the election. She emphasized the importance of completing the work initiated during the current term, expressing confidence in the council’s ability to bring the process to a successful conclusion.

Coun. Mitchell Tweel suggested placing a full-page advertisement in a local newspaper to promote the public meeting, a proposal supported by Jankov. She highlighted the necessity of meeting the minimum legislative advertising standards and shared her expectation for increased attendance at the meeting through newspaper promotions. Jankov endorsed the idea of running the advertisement multiple times to maximize visibility and participation.