Public hearing set for plan to convert 3 homes into 16-unit seniors housing complex in Chilliwack

• 315m² indoor common amenity area and 284m² outdoor common amenity space, including a bocce court and raised garden beds for community gardens (599m² total provided, 230m² required);

• 69 new parking spaces for residents and visitors (15 required), including four accessible stalls and one loading stall;

• 16 Type A long-term bike storage spaces and 6 Type B short-term bike storage spaces.

Three properties on Gibson Road that could be converted into seniors housing. (Image Credit: City of Chilliwack.)

The applicant behind the proposed housing project has indicated that the seniors housing facility would be operated by the Reformed Congregation in North America on the adjacent property, with the units rented by seniors within the congregation to allow them to continue living within the community as they age and their needs change.

According to a city staff report, the church has committed to provide services for the future residents, including housekeeping, meals, transportation, personal care, health monitoring and emergency response systems, as necessary. The church is not seeking any government funding for the project. Instead, it would be funded completely by church members.

To ensure that the project is occupied by seniors, the applicant has agreed to register a housing agreement to the title of the property, limiting the occupancy to seniors (persons 55 years of age or older) and/or persons with disabilities for a 20 year term.

Example of an aging in place concept of a fourplex facility. (Image Credit: Reformed Congregation in North America, via City of Chilliwack.)

The applicant proposes to consolidate the 3 residential lots to create a 0.63-hectare property that includes the residences and required parking. The subject properties are adjacent to the church and the Mount Cheam Christian School, all of which are under the same operating group and currently function as one site as it relates to vehicle parking and access. If the proposed development is approved by Chilliwack City Council, the seniors housing facility, church and school will all function as one.

Established in 1968, the nearby Reformed Congregation in North America on Yale Road has a congregation of approximately 1,525 attendees. The attached Mount Cheam Christian School has approximately 385 students.

The public hearing is set for Tuesday, May 5 at Chilliwack City Hall.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

Public hearing set for plan to convert 3 homes into 16-unit seniors housing complex in Chilliwack

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