A proposed three-storey mixed-use building in Colchester goes before Essex council Tuesday.
The plan includes eight motel units, 18 apartments, and 33 parking spaces on a vacant lot at 80 County Road 50.
A public open house raised concerns about building height, fit with nearby homes, traffic, parking, and the need for another motel next to the existing Grove Motel.
Mayor Sherry Bondy says the project reflects growing demand for different housing options in the community.
“I know that change is hard and three stories does seem like a lot for Colchester,” she said. “At the same time, it is some more residential units and it’ll be rentals, which are really in need in Colchester.”
Bondy said the site itself is a key opportunity for growth.
“We need, according to the province and the county, we need to provide a range of housing,” Bondy said.
“What we know is that the days of building just single family homes are over. People are looking for maintenance free. They’re looking for easy to maintain, and these apartments could be good for seniors, or could be good for people just starting off.”
Turnout at the open house was low, and Bondy is encouraging residents to be more involved in the formal planning process.
“There have been some comments on social media, but, I’ve said before to residents if you’re commenting on social media, those comments don’t count,” she said. “You need to make sure that your comments go through the official channel so that they could be captured in the report.”
Essex council meets Tuesday at 6 p.m.