Council Agenda Monday, September 10, 2012 - City of St. John's

- 2 -2012-08-28• Mr. Reardon advised that the townhouses will consist of a stone and brick façadereminiscent of typical brownstone townhouses in major urban areas. He added that thedevelopment will be of high quality and will complement the neighbourhood character.• The maximum distance of the buildings from their closest neighbours (th Parnells) willbe about 45-50 feet from the rear property line. All properties will have a rear deck offthe main floor.The floor was opened for discussion:Mr. & Mrs. Parnell – 655 Southside RoadThe Parnells were supportive of the proposal outlined but raised a number of questions:• How will the developer address potential on-street parking congestion as a result of thedevelopment, particularly as townhouses in the area have had parking problems. Mr.Reardon noted that there will be double driveways in front of each home to offset theneed for on-street parking.• Privacy issues: The developer is prepared to install a pressure-treated fence along theperiphery of the development which will facilitate privacy between neighbours.• Mrs. Parnell added to her husband’s concerns about traffic congestion. Mr. Reardonnoted that there are a number of accesses, particularly Waterford Lane, which maybecome a more convenient alternate route for residents living in this area.• The Parnells also expressed concern about infrastructural capacity and water run-off.Staff advised that these issues will be investigated by the City’s Department ofEngineering who will inspect and ensure there is adequate capacity. If such does notexist, approval for the development will not proceed. It was noted, however, that anyinfrastructural upgrades will likely benefit the surrounding neighbourhood and improvethe current situation, where storm water runs along the road and into people’s driveways.Shirley Reid – Southside RoadMs. Reid recalled that the subject property was once a field where neighbourhood childrenplayed. It was even mowed by their mothers. She noted that the area has been a mess in recentyears and she expressed her support for the development.With regard to traffic congestion, Ms. Reid referenced the proposed traffic-calming initiativeslated for the area which may help to ameliorate any concerns.AdjournmentThere being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.Councillor Wally CollinsChairperson