"Edmonton is looking at moderation, Calgary is looking at capitulation.”

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Two, four, six, eight, who do we appreciate?

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Silly mathematical rhymes notwithstanding, this is in many ways the operative question for Edmonton city councillors trying to manage the public’s demands around density in mature communities.

The choices are in the rhyme.

Eight is the current maximum for units allowed on a standard lot, under the city’s zoning bylaw. Six is the number previously pitched by Mayor Andrew Knack and some council members in the leadup to last year’s civic election. Four is the target demanded by a lot of perturbed homeowners. And two is the limit favoured by even more perturbed homeowners who obviously don’t see much of a problem with rampant sprawl.

It will be impossible to satisfy everyone as council prepares to debate the issue again next week, for the second time in seven months. As you may recall, the last go-around ended rather messily, when a proposed drop in the unit maximum — to six units — fell one vote short due to the conspicuous absence of a pair of councillors.

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Both of those councillors are now permanently absent from the group, which only raises the intrigue for what the new council will do.

One possibility is to take some advice from a former Calgary city councillor who is urging Edmonton to stay the course on infill when his own city is not.

I know, taking recommendations, or........

© Edmonton Journal