Lacombe council chambers were packed with residents opposed to an application to rezone a corner lot in the city’s Central Residential District to build a multi-unit rental property.

After a lengthy public hearing, they got their wish, as council denied the request.

Planning documents call for a low-density area, and Coun. Jonathan Jacobson said they must be adhered to.

“It’s important to keep the overall picture in mind that we have these plans in place because we have a certain look that we’re going for with our development feel for different areas of town. And we have to stick to those,” Jacobson said.

The lot in question is located west of C&E Trail and north of 50 Avenue, with single family dwellings in the south, and multi-units to the north.

Those opposed said the development would lead to noise, traffic and reduced property values. It was also suggested that renters allow premises to go unkempt.

Jacobson rejected those fears as NIMBYism (not in my backyard).

“I don’t share those concerns at all. Frankly, I found some of those remarks offensive,” he said.