Council in Prince Edward County is allowing one couple to go ahead and have living space above their boathouse.
Council approved a rezoning at 28 Fairfield Street from Tourist Commercial to Special Tourist Commercial that would allow for two off site parking spots, as well as the livable space above their boathouse as a tourist accommodation unit.
Two people spoke to council on Tuesday night as deputations in opposition to the rezoning, stating it simply wasn’t a good idea because of traffic concerns, safety concerns, environmental concerns, noise and other issues.
The boathouse and property in question is located at the end of a dead end street, right beside the Picton Yacht Club.
Five others also spoke during the public comment period, including owner William Harney, who clarified he and his wife simply want to rent the space to a family and are seeking that approval.
Councillor Brad Nieman said he wouldn’t support the motion because the boathouse is located in a floodplain that is still under six inches of water, and all levels of government are discouraging the use of floodplain lands.
He also stated the Harneys would be changing the use of the building, something that didn’t sit right with him.
Councillor Phil St-Jean asked if the decision could be moved to the following council meeting to allow for the County’s lawyer’s statement to be released to the public regarding the rezoning request, as he felt it would offer some transparency into why council made their decision the way they did.
The vote to release the County’s solicitor’s statements and legal opinion regarding the matter was unanimous.
Mayor Steve Ferguson stated he was guided by his feelings as to what is appropriate for the community, but they have been dealing with this issue for quite some time.
There was also discussion about the decision reversal that came from the Quinte Conservation Authority in regards to the property which saw the experts disagree with the approval, but then the QCA board overturned that decision when appealed by Harney.
The rezoning passed with a 9-4 vote with councillors Nieman, Bill Roberts, Stewart Bailey and Mayor Ferguson dissenting.
The lawyer’s statements are expected to be released within the next couple of weeks.
Will and Beverley Harney also have to get sanitary sewer and watermain extensions put into place.
