District council will revisit the decision on allowing Zara at Lakestone to operate as a strata hotel/motel at its Jan. 14 meeting.
More than 100 people packed into council chambers for a 2.5-hour public hearing on Nov. 5, 2024, with many speaking against the zoning amendment. Residents argued that the 2012 Lakestone Master Plan, which outlines guidelines for the area, is outdated. Others feared short-term rentals could lower property values, increase noise, and create parking and traffic problems.
However, a staff report to council emphasized that the Master Plan clearly includes provisions for vacation rentals in up to 120 resort residential units, including an 80-unit condominium proposed as a strata-titled resort. The zoning amendment would align with this plan and require property owners to follow provincial rules, district bylaws, and strata regulations.
Some residents worried about property values dropping, but the staff report stated that recent data from BC Assessment shows values in the area have held steady, even with ongoing construction at Zara. Values are expected to rise once the development is completed this year.
Noise and parking were also major concerns. Staff noted the strata would be responsible for managing complaints. Zara will offer 155 parking spaces, divided between residents, visitors, and commercial use. Boat or trailer parking on streets will not be allowed.
The zoning amendment would only affect the Zara development. If approved, it would allow owners to offer vacation rentals under provincial short-term rental laws, which exempt strata hotels from principal-residence requirements.
Alternate recommendations in the staff report include allowing a maximum of up to 43 units (50 per cent) to be used as short-term vacation rentals
at any one time, with a minimum five night stay. Another option would allow a maximum of up to 26-units (30 per cent).
Staff pointed out that the amendment could also pave the way for the community to apply for a provincial program which could bring in up to three per cent in revenue from short-term rentals.
Council can either proceed with a third reading of the zoning amendment or revoke the first two readings and dismiss the proposal.
