107 First Street in Steinbach is the latest property in the area to be rezoned for medium-density development.

The decision was made following a public hearing on Tuesday. Developer Luke Wiebe presented at the city council meeting outlining his plans for the property which include three two-storey six-plexes and some intriguing features.

“We have an onsite dog park which is really exciting. That is something that we didn't do in the last development but we did do in Niverville and it was very appreciated by tenants because we do allow dogs in some of our units. Another thing that is similar to our other first street project is all of these units have private entry.”

Wiebe says he didn’t plan the private entries because of COVID-19 but with residents not having to share common hallways, it is a lot safer which is kind of a surprise benefit.

Councillor Michael Zwaagstra moved to give the rezoning bylaw first reading. He says this project fits with all of the other recent development that has taken place on the northeast side of First Street.

“It seems to make sense. It fits within the area. The reality is that with some of these properties, when you have a large lot and an older home on it, in order to see redevelopment happen, in order to see new buildings and the revitalization, the only way that that is economically feasible is for it to be rezoned into medium density.”

Despite one objection to the development from a nearby neighbour, city council was unanimous in giving the rezoning second and third reading allowing the project to move forward.