Link to letter on the Times Colonist website
Sustained opposition to James Bay tower
For four years, James Bay residents have been strongly opposed to a specific development on the parking lot bordering Montreal, Kingston and Quebec Streets and have created a website: www.toodensenosense.ca. See how you can participate in the upcoming public hearing and learn about the opposition to date.
In August 2021, about 100 surveys were returned to the developer, but that information was not shared with residents.
In November 2021, the Community Application Land Use Committee restricted the number of participants to less than 100 because of the host’s Zoom subscription; more people wanted to listen and voice their opinion.
Through 2023 and 2024, there were three Committee of the Whole meetings, surveys, requests for comments, meetings of concerned citizens, and 21 letters to local papers resulting in: Two petitions with 170 signatures opposing this development; hundreds of participants meeting; more than 90% of comments received opposed this development; city planning staff have opposed it three times.
Almost all (95%) respondents oppose the development and proposed rezoning.
Council is not listening to staff or the community.
In February 2025, more than 50 residents held a protest strongly opposing towers while supporting more family friendly housing in residential neighbourhoods. Experts and residents continue to oppose this proposed rezoning.
Towers are devastating in this residential neighbourhood. Mayor and council, vote no to rezoning and approve a development that fits with the surrounding area, not the downtown core.
—Corinne MacDonald, Victoria