Persevering in the pursuit of an elusive ideal of perfection assures one outcome: perpetual stagnation.

Situated conveniently close to public transportation, shopping centers, and essential services, the 201 primarily studio rental apartments in the proposal would have been an easy sell in any other district. However, in West Vancouver, it took years for the proposal to even secure a council vote, and its approval was far from certain.

Mayor Mark Sager acknowledged the potential disagreement from esteemed community members over the council’s decision. There was considerable worry about whether the proposal was suitable for the community.

Indeed, it’s a given that smaller apartments may not offer the same level of comfort as their larger counterparts. Furthermore, the current market rental rates are undoubtedly burdensome for someone surviving on a 2023 income.

Nonetheless, demanding that every innovation align with everyone’s vague idea of perfection guarantees one thing: the status quo forever.

For four decades, the community has seen virtually no new rental additions, making it increasingly challenging for those unable to afford a single-family property to find a home in West Van. This trend is detrimental to local businesses, commuters, and the residents of West Vancouver.

The decision undoubtedly attracted attention in Victoria, where Premier David Eby has asserted that municipalities cannot indefinitely resist new housing developments. It is far more prudent to project West Vancouver as a participant in the solution, not a contributor to the problem.

Referenced article here: https://www.nsnews.com/opinion/editorial-small-apartments-a-small-step-for-west-vancouver-6772383