Allowing apartments in houses renews zoning debate

A proposal to allow apartments in all Sudbury neighbourhoods received a cool reception from some city councillors Monday night.

City planners were discussing new provincial legislation that calls for cities and towns to permit more apartments in houses.

Planners say it's a way to provide cheaper housing options for seniors, students and the working poor.

But this has been contentious in Sudbury, where many neighbourhoods have fought re-zoning to allow anything other than single family homes.

"Homeless people, seniors, youth could benefit, said Councillor Evelyn Dutrisac.

But, on the other end of the spectrum, there are people who have made large investments in their homes."

Councillor Andre Rivest said the city should protect the right of Sudburians to choose the kind of area in which they wish to live and squeezing more people into a neighbourhood will also have an effect on city services.

"It does impact fire services, police services, he said. Our libraries are too small, our sports complexes need to be bigger."

City planners say their reports show rents for basement units is usually cheaper than units in apartment buildings, and provide affordable housing for seniors, students, as well as the working poor.

No decision was made during the Monday night meeting, but the topic will be discussed again in the future.

The change being proposed by staff would be part of the city's new official plan, which is expected to be finalized in the new year.