Dear Editor:
Over several decades, many owners of a 64-unit strata highrise in West Vancouver illegally enclosed their balconies, not only increasing the size (and value) of their condo, but also damaging the structure of the building and making fire rescue more hazardous.
On Monday night, in front of council, they came clean. They asked for their wrongs to be righted and the increased sizes of their units be legalized.
Did council ask for penalties as they have required of others who have built without proper permits? Did council ask for the owners to share the increased value of their property with the community through a contribution to amenities as they have of others who have received density bonuses?
Not at all. Unanimously, council waived all penalties, granted an up-zoning that will increase their property by at least $2 million and got absolutely nothing for the community in return.
One can only wonder why rules and policies apply to some in West Vancouver and not others.
Since final adoption has not occurred, is there any hope council will rescind approval-in-principle until the community receives some reasonable contribution for the millions in land value being handed over?
George Pajari West Vancouver
