Edmonton’s flexible rules on what developers can give back to communities via new projects have caused slight chaos, says city planner Kalen Anderson.
“We need to put more rigour around it.”
Councillors at the urban planning committee voted Wednesday to let city staff continue talks with the developers to help clarify what they can do to include amenities like public art and affordable housing as part of their plans when building something new.
This can be seen in Alldritt’s proposed 80-storey tower, where the developer plans to include a public ‘urban balcony’ as part of the overall project. In other cases, some developers include public art or affordable housing in their developments.
But there are “a number of challenges” with the current way things are done, Anderson said.
Without guidelines, “there is a lack of predictability” that can delay projects, she said, adding that doesn't set a clear path on how developers can get involved.
“Without a program, council can’t advocate for amenities.”
