Here’s some potentially good news. BMI, the developer for the Krug Factory, may be listening to the concerns of residents. A new page has appeared on their website that seems to respond to many of the criticisms that have been voiced by the residents of the Krug Factory neighbourhood.
This is encouraging, as far as it goes. Residents are very happy to learn about BMI’s plan designate 10% of residences as affordable housing, as defined by Canada’s Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and bound by a 25-year developer agreement if accepted into the program. There are other positive changes, too, like the provision of charging stations — although the number of stations is unclear.
But the page is very recent, and the meeting is on Thursday, June 27. Residents of the Krug Factory neighbourhood haven’t had the time to really assess the new material, and as far as we can see, it isn’t reflected in the written submissions available through the City. Without a written proposal to back it up, the website doesn’t mean much. Is it time to push the pause button until we know what’s going on?
Get Concerned Stratford will be attending the meeting on Thursday; now is the time when our Council has leverage, and we believe they should act on the part of residents. As environmentalists, here is what we are hoping for:
1. A noise wall at the south of the development to shield residents from the rail yard. This would mean less use of air conditioners in the summer, and lower energy demand
2. Gas connections will soon be a thing of the past. Heat pumps can serve for both heating and cooling. Electrification is key for this project.
3. Greenspace is a necessity. We are encouraged to see it listed on the new BMI webpage, and hope that a firm, written commitment can be made to assure its inclusion. Green roofs would reduce HVAC costs.
4. Charging stations should be available for all residents. From the new BMI webpage. “A set of charging stations will be available to electric vehicle owners.”
