The proposal for a triplex on an undersized vacant residential lot in Riverdale received rousing support from city council at its meeting Monday night.

Council gave third and final reading to the required zoning amendment, as lot owner Erica Heuer clutched her hands with excitement and raised them to a full smile as she sat in the gallery.

Heuer's proposal has raised resistance from some community members who feel the development – particularly on a lot already smaller than usual – will put an added squeeze on a neighbourhood already dealing with traffic flow and such.

Members of council, however, described the proposal for McQuesten Road as an ideal solution to feed the growing housing demand with a project that is innovative and well-suited for the area.

"I am pretty excited to see this go forward because I think a building like this should really start to become the model of sustainability,” Coun. Betty Irwin said, describing her support for Heuer's triplex.

The city, the councillors agreed, is better off right now increasing density in existing neighbourhoods to take advantage of existing infrastructure as opposed to expanding more subdivisions.

"I sincerely think this is going to be a wonderful addition to the community,” said Coun. Florence Roberts.

Heuer is planning a two-storey development, with each of the three units measuring a total of 973 square feet. The design calls for high-energy efficiency, and may be eligible for a Passive House certification for its implementation of sustainable living concepts such as the collection system for rainwater and greywater to flush the toilet and water the yard.

Heuer said after the meeting she intends to begin construction in July and will be living in one of the three units.

Information put before council indicates the building will meet all other zoning requirements, such as height restriction and maximum lot coverage with all required setbacks from the property lines.

Parking will be provided at the rear through laneway access.

Porter Creek resident Cam Kos appeared before council Monday to express his concern that allowing such a development on a small residential lot could kick-start a trend by other property owners interested in investment opportunities.

The proposal may be for Riverdale, but approving it could have implications for neighbourhoods across the city, he cautioned council.

Roberts acknowledged the concerns brought forward by Riverdale residents, but also noted the city has received multiple correspondence in the last week supporting the project.