We’ve noticed approximately 13 properties that are currently identified as ‘PS’ or public and private on the 2009 land use map for St. Albert. Right now, these properties are either single empty lots or attached to parks and/or nearby school sites. No doubt, these properties are being touted as green space by their realtors.
When people are buying a home, one of the considerations is location. Allowing Habitat for Humanity/Apollo Developments to "pooh-pooh" the objections of residents in Akinsdale and cause the city to bend over backwards to change bylaws to incorporate their "vision" sets a lovely precedent for anyone who is looking for a home near these properties.
So, when you buy a home that backs onto any of these PS properties, be prepared to lose anywhere from six to nine per cent of your property value when Habitat for Humanity and/or the City of St. Albert comes knocking.
Oh, and for those of you who believe that you are safe because you bought in an older, established neighbourhood? Well, think again.
With the changes our city council wishes to make to the bylaws, it will become even easier for developers to move in and demolish single family units to increase density as they see fit.
Fred Trotter, St. Albert
