As a resident of Burnaby, BC, I have watched with increasing concern as our neighbourhood's character and livability are being compromised by oversized, inappropriate multi-family homes. These developments pay no heed to the surrounding architectural style, size, or community feel, altering the unique essence that made us choose to live here in the first place. This transformation in our beloved neighborhood is primarily due to the city's knee-jerk response to the provincial government's indiscriminate removal of single-family zoning, which dismisses the critical role of local input in urban planning.

While the intent of the provincial edict was to increase  housing affordability, these changes do not do that .The anticipated selling prices of these multiplex units are the same as an equivalent duplex unit on the same lot, resulting only in a much higher developer profit. 

Our call is not to resist change or growth—it's about advocating for a more balanced and thoughtful approach to densification. We recognize that density needs to increase to accommodate growing populations and diverse housing needs. However, this growth must be conducted in a measured manner, reflective of neighbourhood norms, and attentive to the voices of those most affected: the residents.

We propose that the Burnaby City Council and Planning Department place restrictions on density modifications that go beyond what existing building codes allow for single-family sized lots. In particular, we advocate for the allowance of duplexes and/or conforming laneway houses on current single-family lots provided they respect the height , lot coverage and parking norms that align with our neighbourhood's current appearance and feel.

It is evident that the only supporters of the current unstandardized densification policy are developers, most of whom are not residents of Burnaby. They do not experience the daily impacts of these changes and therefore, may overlook the long-term consequences on community cohesion and quality of life. It is imperative that City Hall acts in service of its residents, prioritizing our well-being and the preservation of our community fabric over profit-driven interests. City Hall is supposed to work for our concerns, not the non-resident developers need for excessive profit.

The city of Burnaby has done a better job than most with responsible density development along transit corridors without coercion from the province . Let's not blow it now...

Let's stand together to demand that our city's growth reflects our needs, not those of outside interests. By signing this petition, you are supporting a request for the city to engage with residents meaningfully, restoring the balance between necessary growth and preserving the character of our neighbourhoods. Let's ensure that growth benefits everyone, from current residents to future generations. 

Please join me in signing this petition to urge Burnaby's City Council and Planning Department to consider this balanced approach to neighbourhood development.