I believe Edmonton’s Zoning Bylaw MUST be amended immediately.  More specifically, the SMALL RESIDENTIAL (RS) zoning portion of the bylaw must be amended immediately.  

The RS Zoning changes that came into effect on January 01st, 2024 are causing significant and irreversible damage to our neighbourhoods.  It disrespects the character and livability of our mature communities. It permits the construction of multi-story 8-plex’s - with no parking – eliminate privacy over single family homes. It offers no buffer between traditional homes and these more intense multi-occupancy complexes.  Neighbouring property owners and communities are not consulted, and have no recourse. In mid June, after pressure from residents, a motion was made in city council to amend the 8 suite maximum to 6 suites. This still doesn't address the issues of parking, traffic, privacy and other impacts to the community.  I am against unchecked growth over neighbourhoods. The proposed change will go to a public hearing June 30. 

Some incumbent City Councillors are advocating for further up-zoning in the heart of our established neighbourhoods.  This would mean even larger infill developments to be built. This would mean even more damage and heartache in our communities.  I cannot - and will not - support this. 

Some candidates are calling for the total “REPEAL” of the whole Zoning Bylaw. While that may sound like an appealing solution to the infill problems, perhaps these folks should “read it first” - before promising to throw ALL city developments into chaos.

Simply put, the Zoning Bylaw determines what can be built, where.  It sets the rules for where new buildings should go, what types of buildings they can be, and what businesses and activities can happen on a property.  It covers residential, business, commercial, industrial areas, parkland, agricultural and public utility zones.  The last significant overhaul was completed in 1961 when Edmonton’s population was about 276,000.  Our city’s population is now over one million, and growing.  Changes were needed. 

The new Zoning Bylaw came into effect as of January 01st, 2024.  This condensed version is over 1,090 pages. The entire Zoning Bylaw should not be repealed, as some candidates are proposing. 

Only a small portion of this bylaw relates to SMALL RESIDENTIAL (RS) zoning. THIS is the key area that they got VERY WRONG… and must be urgently AMENDED.  As your City Councillor, I will fight to protect the residents, the unique community character and the livability of our mature neighbourhoods.  

I’m Caroline Matthews and I am running to represent the residents of Ward Metis.