The Cathedral neighborhood has expressed an overwhelming amount of mixed reviews over the proposed Sobeys Liquor Store.
After a town hall last week, Ward 3 Councillor and Cathedral Village resident Andrew Stevens says he’s heard a wide range of views, from people who are outright opposed to the store to those who like the idea but want it zoned differently.
Stevens said while he liked this proposal as a resident, he has yet to make a final decision as a Councillor on if this development should move forward.
“I am talking to every available community association and community members before I’ll make a final decision,” Stevens said. “No decision yet, but I am certainly doing a lot of research and homework into this proposal.”
Stevens said some people have resorted to proposing different plans, including businesses with residential areas on top of them.
“Some people actually (had a) great idea; a small, little pocket community park and we see those actually in the Heritage community,” Stevens said. “Really, anything that enhances the street-scape and walk-ability is precisely what the neighborhood plan developed in the 1980’s tried to achieve.”
Stevens said he recognizes this will be a divisive issue.
“I’d say half of the community is going to hate me regardless of the decision I make, so I have to weigh what is the best public interest of the community and work with that.”
The proposed location for the liquor store is on land that has been left vacant for nearly 30 years, and would also result the current office for NDP MLA Carla Beck to be demolished. The vote for the development will be brought to Council in April.
