Chinatown developer claims bullying, intimidation deterring supporters

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The developer behind a controversial Chinatown proposal claims more people would have come out to support its Keefer Street project had it not been for bullying and intimidation by opponents.

The City of Vancouver is just days away from approving or rejecting the 105 Keefer development.

There have been multiple revisions to plans for the 12-storey condo building, which would go up right next to the Chinese-Canadian memorial. Houtan Rafii with developer Beedie Living says a lot of the revisions have come from public feedback.

But with any development comes criticism. Opponents are worried the new building would affect the identity of Chinatown. They have circulated petitions to have the proposal shot down and held protests to share their concerns.

Although Rafii understands many of the concerns, he says people are going about voicing their displeasure the wrong way.

“Yes, we totally recognize there’s opposition and some of that opposition comes from a place of passion and sincerity, (but) some of it is unfounded in our opinion and that of our supporters.”

Rafii claims many of those against the development have been doing more than just ‘voicing’ their displeasure.

“Many of those people who came out and spoke in support were either bullied at the public hearing and then intimidated and bullied online and on Twitter, and that really inhibited lots more supporters from coming out.”

Despite the push back, Rafii claims there’s also been a lot of support for the proposal, which now includes non-market housing, a cultural space, a reduced height as well as social housing units.

The decision is expected on Tuesday.