Rezoning talks return to Calgary city hall, councillor plans to once again propose plebiscite

Blanket rezoning is returning to Calgary council chambers Monday, ahead of an anticipated vote on the long-debated proposal which prompted the city’s longest-ever public hearing.

The process began on April 22, when members of the public began flocking to city hall to share their thoughts on the proposed plan, which the city hopes would provide relief to the housing crisis by speeding up approvals and making it easier for more housing options to be built across the city.

Last week, administration provided a recap to council following 12 days of public hearings that saw over 736 speakers present to city council over the proposal. Out of those speakers, there were 458 who were opposed (62.2 per cent), and 227 who supported the idea (30.8 per cent).

In addition to the hundreds of speakers, there were also 6,101 written submissions. More than 50,000 people tuned into the public hearing through an online livestream.

Now, the matter returns for debate between councillors, as well as an opportunity for them to ask questions, and potentially propose a motion.

Coun. Dan McLean says he will once again call for a plebiscite on the issue, a motion he first proposed in March.

That proposal ultimately failed in an 8-6 vote.

Council will vote on Blanket Up-Zoning this week.
When the time is appropriate I will put forth a Reconsideration of my Motion to put Up-Zoning to a plebiscite at the next election and if successful Council could refer back to Admin to come up with a more acceptable zoning plan. pic.twitter.com/e4vX2eppn8

— Dan McLean (@DanWMcLean) May 13, 2024

City administration has allotted time Monday through Thursday afternoon for council to conclude this issue.