by Geoff Meggs

Yesterday’s 8-3 council vote to reject Beedie Group’s proposal to build a 12-story project at 105 Keefer ended the longest public hearing in a decade, a process that turned into a debate on the future of Chinatown.

I voted with the majority in that vote and wrote down my comments — something I never do — to be sure I said what I had on my mind. Here’s what I said:

“This hearing has been the longest and most intense in my time on council. Sadly, it reflected how one of the city’s most important communities — Chinatown, a neighbourhood most consider part of the soul of our city — has become deeply divided over the best way to sustain the community while preparing to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

“Despite the anxiety, fear and frustration expressed by many, everyone who participated in this debate is deeply and passionately committed to Chinatown’s future.

“The reality is that neither option available to council today — approval or rejection — can assure that future. That will take leadership, and most importantly, require unity and collaboration.

“The decision before council has been defined by speakers on both sides as a turning point,, a watershed, vital for Chinatown’s revitalization, a defining moment in the life of the city as critical as the decision to defeat freeway development. Read More