A unique senior care development set for West Kelowna

• The Williston will have 114 units
• Design includes five combined three-story buildings

A new senior care development is reaching final approval from West Kelowna city council.

It offers various on-site services so residents can determine their own levels of self-sufficiency.

Lawmakers signed off on a development permit for five, three-story apartment buildings on Saddleback Way.

“I do believe there’s a need for this type of housing within our city of West Kelowna,” Mayor Gord Milsom said during the meeting.

The Williston will include 114 congregate care units and amenity space for residents. Tucked into the landscape, the buildings will be connected in a slope-adaptive style to accommodate the existing topography.

“From a form and character standpoint, I think it looks fantastic,” councillor Jason Friesen said. “I’m very happy to see what they’ve brought forward today.”

The facility will be congregate in style, meaning the seniors will have an opportunity to be in a space with other like-minded individuals.

This allows residents the option of choosing services such as meals, housekeeping, and laundry services, or being self-sufficient instead.

The main concern council brought up was parking, specifically if the proposed 83 spaces in the underground parkade are enough for staff and residents.

After giving examples from other similar developments, the developer assured council parking wouldn’t be an issue.

Keith Funk told lawmakers that many residents do not require a private vehicle because transportation is provided for trips, and many services are on-site.