Concerns about slope steepness, water runoff, traffic on Ioco Road and other issues didn't stop Port Moody council from giving third reading Tuesday to a seven-lot development at 622 Foresthill Pl. on the city's north shore.
The Pleasantside property is located in the North Shore Escarpment Forest, considered an environmentally sensitive area, but the support of local stream stewards and the handing over of 75% of the land (four acres) as park won over some skeptical councillors.
Coun. Rick Glumac wanted assurance that runoff from development wouldn't flow onto residents' property further downhill after several people said they were worried about water seeping into or under their homes from the many creeks and springs in the area.
Traffic concerns on Ioco were also an issue and residents complained about the lack of notice about the development application or said they weren't informed about the public hearing at all even though they live close to the project.
Coun. Diana Dilworth called for a wider net for notices - up to 300 m, from 150 - so more residents would be informed in the future and she said notices must be put in the mail 15 days in advance of a public hearing on the project, not 10.
The project's engineer, Ron Beesley, gave assurances that work is being done to prevent flooding and council was told a storm water management plan would be in place, and further development permits would be required to assure slope stability, road engineering and environmental issues before final approval of the project would be given.
Glumac said local environmentalists' support for the project gave it some credibility but Coun. Bob Elliott refused to vote for the development because of traffic concerns on Ioco.
Meanwhile, plans are in the works to improve sight lines for the intersection at Jacobs Road and Ioco. The city's manager of engineering and public works, Neal Carley, said the work will take place this year and will include slowing traffic on Ioco Road.
