Comox Council has given third reading to a proposed rezoning for 721 Lazo Road.

The decision was made at Council’s regular meeting on August 5th, following several months of reviewing technical studies, hearing from residents, and considering different development options for the privately owned property.

Council says it recognized the decision involved balancing environmental protection with the interests of the broader community.

As part of third reading, Council added two conditions that must be met before the zoning bylaw can be adopted.

The Town will hire an independent environmental expert to review the project and confirm it complies with provincial and federal environmental laws.

All required development permits, including a detailed environmental study, must be approved before the zoning can move forward.

Council says the proposal would permanently protect 65 percent of the property, with more than 3 acres becoming publicly owned parkland.

That land includes Garry Oak habitat, eagle nesting habitat, older-growth forest and other ecologically important features.

The proposal would also create new public access to the waterfront, along with a walking connection between the Lazo Greenway and the beach.

The zoning changes would limit the size and environmental impact of future homes by increasing setbacks, reducing building footprints, limiting house sizes, restricting some home occupations and prohibiting coach houses.

Council also addressed claims made during the public process that other development options could have significantly reduced the impact on Garry Oak trees.

Council ultimately concluded the proposal, along with the additional environmental conditions, provides the best balance between allowing limited residential development and permanently protecting more than 3 acres of ecologically sensitive forest.

The project has generated significant community interest.

The Town says it released more than 180 pages of technical documents, consulted with a senior ecosystem biologist from the Province, responded to more than 50 emails from residents, and held a 1.5-hour public information session.

Town staff and Council members also took part in more than 20 hours of meetings and direct phone calls with community members during the review process.

The rezoning still requires the additional environmental requirements and development permits to be completed before the zoning bylaw can be adopted.

For details, visit Town of Comox.