Diamond Cove is a prestigious and quiet little community adjacent to the Bow River and Bow Bottom Trails, which often overlooked because of it's limited access. The land was annexed from the community of Queensland in 1991. Diamond Cove is buttressed on the East side by the Bow River. There is excellent access to transportation and direct access to major vehicle routes such as Deerfoot Trail, Canyon Meadows Drive and Anderson Road. Residents of Diamond Cove enjoy close proximity to Fish Creek Provincial Park and all of its recreation opportunities.
Diamond Cove is still administered by the Queensland Community Association which was registered on December 13th, 1974. The community hall can accommodate 360 and has wheelchair access and a stage. The association also offers tennis courts, outdoor skating and a sports/playing field. There is also a large playing field centrally located right in Diamond Cove.
For more information on Diamond Cove Homes, please call
Mayor Naheed Nenshi spoke at an open forum in front of a friendly but focused crowd at the Unitarian Church of Calgary this afternoon. He arrived without fanfare, and precisely on time, wasted very little time getting organized. He was casually dressed, in blue jeans, a white shirt and brown sports coat. Mr. Nenshi promptly and unceramoniously sat himself down right on stage steps in front of the crowd of a couple of hundred to adjust his microphone before getting up to speak. He was composed and relaxed, and spoke without pretense. Many times he had the crowd laughing with his quick wit and delightful sense of humour which he called upon frequently to lighten up the occasion. I was able to capture some candid photos during the final moments before his departure.
Mayor Naheed Nenshi anwering serious questions from concerned citizens - Barry Wilkinson looks on
His presentation, "Looking at Calgary's Past and Visioning Calgary's Future" was relevant and informative, followed by a question and answer period. This transcription of the event is intended as reference and is not written verbatim, but to the best of my ability, I tried to capture the precedings in his own words.
The Presentation
How cities and communities work, Calgary's physical growth utilizing map references from the Saturdays Calgary Herald newspaper. New communities are being built on the outskirts. Starter homes under 400K. The City of Calgary has been working with developers building communities for different income levels rather than working towards the integration and creation of diverse communities within the communities we already have.
Observations of Calgary in Naheed-time
This rapid growth has caused increase congestion and there has not been enough infrastructure upgrades to keep up with this growth. For example, Calgary has increased C-trains from 31 to 37 during this period.
The Evolution of Calgary
Ethnicity maps show non-whites are congregating in the NE. Especially Coral Springs in '96. In 2006 ethnicities have increased numbers throughout the city but are still far more concentrated in the NE. There is a practice of real estate agents to REDLINE which is steering clients to a particular area based on names or ethnicity. This causes a high risk of "ghettoization", and the practice has been confirmed using bait buyers.
Children were evenly distributed across the city in 1996. Now, it is the outlying areas of the city which have more young families. Kids are not where the schools are, and so services are replicated which is very costly. The city will be building new recreation centers. Some of this is politically motivated.
Seniors over 65 in 2001 were centrally located, and now they are moving outward. Based on income levels in 2006, the high income areas are moving into the city centre, where the average household income now averages over 800K.
Crimes against people are scattered evenly around the city regardless of income. Nenshi suggests diversity in neighborhoods is a key building block for health communities.
We are connected to our communities. Whether social, cultural or physical, these communities are mixed, safe and just. They welcome meaningful participation from everyone, and people move freely between them
Some time ago his volunteers took a poll asking "Why did you choose where you live?"
Young people liked certain vibes, diverse, intersections of the world, neighborhoods that do not threaten their identity, where they want to engage in new experiences, forcing re-examination of self, and help foster innovation. Immigrant and ethnic presence are welcomed, as are the basic simple needs identified for survival such as safety, schools, and amenities.
ACHIEVING A GREAT CITY
How do we do it?
Then he gave us our homework!
Mayor Nenshi challenged those present , starting today and within the next few days, encourage others to become involved at a higher level in their communities and democratic processes at all levels. Create opportunities to share, and notify his office. Some of the stories will be featured over the next several months.
QUESTION AND ANSWER PERIOD FOLLOWING THE PRESENTATION
Question: Calgary Centre for Global communities speaker giving thanks for all the good work he has doen for the city to date.
Response: He does what he can but it requires the input from everyone.
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Question: Larry Leach thanked Mayor Nenshi for walking the walk.
Answer: The city has not been doing a good job of representing the citizens preferring political maneuvering. Even when consensus is given they have not been implementing good ideas because there has been no accountability or perspective. Mayor Nenshi encourages citizens to keep communications open to politicians.
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Queston: There are discriminatory practices in professional fields not being allowed to work in their professions.
Answer: This is a complete waste of human potential. Don't blame federal, provincial or civic bodies. We all need to step up and voice these types of concerns to raise awareness.
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Question: Developers are giving people what there is a demand for.
Answer: I am a big proponent of choice, that being said, in the case of making choices, there needs to be regulation to ensure that neighborhoods offer free market choices and not limit available options. Also making choices based on the best information available and not what is just presented.
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Question: Will a living wage come up as a possibility?
Answer: Living wage net impact policy was a bad policy. I wasn't satisfied with the analysis that was presented. Non profits were telling me that if the policy was implemented, they could no longer afford to hire.
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Question: Increasing police presence, including cameras, why is it happening? The asker feels that people are unhappy about this. It appears to be an effort to control people economically rather than by necessity.
Answer: The statement is too harsh. The police are the largest single department. We may feel like a police state but we are very far from it. Calgary is a safe city categorically. We need to ensure that communities are safe by design. The Calgary Police are an important part of it. We are blessed with an outstanding police force with many challenges. The police are trained to deal with many types of people, and they need to ensure that they are helping the community to live better lives. Perception is reality, so it's important to ensure that the streets are kept safe. Recent changes have made an enormous difference. Nenshi feels that the police department was very cooperative in providing reduced budget on request of city council.
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Question: Housing Choices; Bernie Amell; Feels that there is not enough choices available to the consumer, young families etc. In particular single family homes are about the only option available to them. Wants to know why the city isn't doing more to encourage more cooperative alternatives by providing financial assistance and options.
Answer: It is hard for the city to look outside of the box, sometimes taking up to 7 years to get a new idea put through. Your proposal is news to me and I would like to hear more. Please send me more information so I can have a look at it.
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Question: With respect to the C-train, Why aren't there more buses running to the C-train stations as it is very difficult to commute
Answer: Starting March there will be significantly improved service on a number of routes. The city is trying to build up express buses. They are looking a lot at this, including express busses to the airport. This is an important area to him and they should notify 311 and let them know specific areas of concern.
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Question: I share the walkable communities vision but how will it work for central and new developments. How about the older communities?
Answer: There is a donut around the city as the city grew outward. Changes require mind shift changes by the people living in those areas. In 2005 more than 80% of neighborhoods lost populations. Older communities have opportunities now for younger families but they need to be reasonably cost effective. We need to look at reworking our existing communities and in particular the legalization of secondary suites. The stature of community associations is unique in Calgary, but there is some powerful associations which do not reflect the residents. Make sure that you check this out by attending meetings and participating.
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Question: Rumor has it that credit cards are coming but what about debit cards? What are they doing to attract more C-train riders?
Answer: Yes, there are plans to increase availability to more riders by offering more payment options, In addition, increased service, improving the experience, investment in signage and fair payment options. Planning for mid 2011, we intend to have electronic signs at bus stops to notify when the next bus is coming. These signs are GPS equipped. There is smart card technology coming as well. He is unsure if the new ticket machines will give change.
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Question: Do you see Calgary playing a larger role on the world scene?
Answer: I am focused on making Calgary a better place for Calgarians, and if the end result is that we will make a difference on a global level and that would be great. Calgary is a good example of how positive change can and does make a huge difference. Let Calgary serve as a model to the world so we can all learn from each other.
Larry Leach banters with Mayor Naheed Nenshi
Mayor Nenshi then thanked everyone for attending a and did not rush off, allowing people to question him personally, shake his hand and even sign autographs, for as long as was required. What a refreshing change this is and certainly a first in my recollection, for any politician!
The Unitarian Church of Calgary is a non-denominational church located at 1703 1st Street NW in Calgary, AB. The church has long been established in one of Calgary's well known historical sites in NW Calgary just one block off Centre Street.
The Minister, Reverend Debra Faulk, was welcomed in the autumn of 2010.
Unitarianism, or living faith got its beginnings as an organized religious movement in the sixteenth century. They have deep roots in the radical wing of the Protestant Reformation.
The Unitarian Church of Calgary - Historical Site
The movement is multi-faceted and ever evolving, embracing diverse theological and philosophical perspectives, including religious humanism, earth-centred spirituality, and naturalistic theism along with an appreciation of our Christian, Buddist and Jewish heritage and wisdom from all faith traditions.
PANABAKER HALL in honour of Harold and Marion Panabaker
There is no requirement for members to think alike or to believe the same things. Rather, theres is a fellowship of mutual support that encourages thoughtfulness, freedom of conscience, and the transforming power of love. As a religious movement without a creed that everyone must adhere to, individuals are free to search for truth and meaning within a caring and supportive community.
Wikenden Hall
Unitarians care deeply about the planet and the people living on it. They are most often actively involved in efforts to actualize their humanitarian values in Calgary, in Canadian society, and also in the global arena.
Dorothy Lloyd, longtime member greets friends in church kitchen
Unitarian Church of Calgary Kitchen Calgary Unitarians are involved in many justice projects, both inside and outside of their congregation. They encourage members to follow their own consciences in choosing the causes for which they work as individuals. An example of that is the process our congregation went through several years ago, when they sought accreditation as a "Welcoming Congregation" that welcomes people of all sexual orientations.
In addition to the regular services, the Unitarian Church of Calgary holds open forums, book reviews, music listening, and a number of different spirituality discussion groups on an ongoing basis, along with many other social activities too number to mention. There membership is a thriving and diverse group of independant and inquiring thinkers.
If you are looking for an open-minded and open-hearted faith, if you are seeking a community of uprecedented acceptance and fellowship, I invite you to check out the Unitarian Church of Calgary.
For more information please visit their website
What are Zero Lot Lines - Calgary, Alberta
Zero lot lines gained popularity in Calgary sometime in the late 70’s as the previously popular 50’ lots became more and more scarce and narrow lots became the order of the day. As the city grew in size and inched it’s way outward, smaller lots and zero lot lines became the order of the day, and developers saw this as a pretty good solution.
By building homes directly on the property line, developers were able to offer the consumer what seemed to be quite a large lot, which they could enjoy to a much greater degree than had they built the home directly in the centre, which would leave only a small strip of land on either side, just big enough for a sidewalk or two.
This worked out quite well, as very often the space on one side of the house on a narrow lot is not really utilized all that well, and is very often considered wasted, with only a fence corralling a weed infested high maintenance area which is seldom used. By basically giving this wasted space to the neighbour, this allowed him to have much more space on his lot to enjoy in pretty much whatever way he chose. I have heard about a couple of problems that I have heard about with zero lot lines.
The first one is that while the neighbour may use the property, there is still a “Right of Way” registered on title. If the neighbouring home owner wishes to come and paint their house or make improvements on it, the area surrounding it must be kept clear from obstructions so that he can have free access to it. As a neigbour utilizing this space, failure to keep this zone free from obstacles could result in the homeowner having the city issue an order of demolition or removal so that he can properly service his home. Failure to comply with such an order would result in the City of Calgary removing the structure and billing any costs to you.
The second thing I have heard about is concerning attached decks and fences. Extreme care must be taken that additions such as these to the home are not protruding onto the neighbours property. Normally, the three meter set-back rule is more than enough to allow for this but when you are building right onto the zero lot line, neighbours may be far less forgiving, and have the City of Calgary order you to have the structure removed or moved if there is any infringement. This can cause some hard feelings which could last years to overcome, if ever, not to mention the added expense.
Zero Lot Lines can be a great solution to enhance the utility and usability of narrow lots in communities such as Dalhousie where they became popular. You should however be aware of the limitations and regulations concerning these before jumping in with both feet, just so that there is no misunderstanding further down the road.
The Arriva, Calgary, High Rise Condominiums
The Arriva I tower, located at 433 11th Avenue SE, on the corner of Olympic way and 11th Avenue SE, Calgary. It was the financed byf Torode Residential Ltd. With Ledcor Construction as the contractor and BKDI, the Architects. The Arriva was started in April of 2005 and completion and occupancy came in November of 2007. The Arriva is 36 stories high, and is registered on condominium Plan #0812315 with Alberta Land Titles. The Arriva is at time of this writing one of the newest condominiums in downtown Calgary.
Torode's ambitious plans of subsequent completion of the Arriva II (2010 - 43 floors) Arriva 3 (42 floors) and Arriva IV (35 floors) were forced on hold as the company was forced to seek bankruptcy protection when the bottom fell out of the real estate market due to a falsely propped housing prices driven by worthless, insured asset-back derivatives being shamelessly flogged by the large investment brokerage houses.
There is some commercial space on the main and 2nd floors of the Arriva, which as I understand it is privately held and not part of the condominium corporation. Neither is the mostly entire first floor of below grade visitor pay parking on P1. Fortunately there are some available short-term parking stalls (3 hour) on the street level, in front of the building on 11th Avenue.
There are 167 individual condominium units in the Arriva, and 265 parking stalls. The parking lot is well lit with an over-abundance of fluorescent white tubes accentuating the sealed concrete drives. While there the parking is abundant, with some unit holders owning three and even four stalls, some of the stalls might be considered tight if driving a large vehicle. Parking for the unit holders is on P2, P3 & P4.
The Arriva downtown condominium features floor to ceiling windows with breath-taking views of the city in every direction. That is what the Arriva is probably best known for. The units also have storage lockers, titled parking, Snaidero Kitchens with Miele Appliances and Caesarstone quartz counter-tops.
As you come through the front door of the condominium, you come into an expansive lobby with an impressive chandelier and security desk. The mailboxes are located beyond, to the left, and the elevators are on the right. The elevators are by secure card only. Guests may only go to their assigned floor, then back to the lobby, without the access card. You must use the lighted panel to select your desired location.
There is a friendly around the clock security guard seated in the Arriva lobby, who is always happy to
greet you as you come and go. He is very helpful, and while his job is to serve and protect, some residents and familiars mistakenly refer to him as the concierge. Through him, one may make bookings for the condominium amenities and guest rooms.
The Arriva is located in the heart of the Warehouse District, across from the Stampede Grounds. The Warehouse District is currently in the process of a complete rebirth after developers saw the potential and ripped out all the old dilapidated homes previously owned by private interests, and mostly rented out to low income families. The area is currently undergoing a complete transformation.
AMENITIES - There is an outside promenade on the 4thfloor of the Arriva, and this is also where the few amenities offered in the building are located. These consist of two modest single bed guest suites, sizable enough by most standards and completely equipped, with the exception that they are devoid of cooking facilities. They do however have large flat screen monitors, Wi-Fi and a host of other electronic gadgetry, along with comfortable beds and sparse furniture. The two suites may be rented by the condominium unit-holders for the reasonable rate of $100.00 per night. There is also a sizable Amenities Room (Meeting Room) which may be rented by the hour (Currently $25.00 per hour).
The Arriva is remarkably striking against the city skyline and can be seen from miles around with its unique and eye catching design and notable greenish hue. The condominiums have floor to ceiling views which are breath-taking to say the least, in every direction.
The commercial areas are currently occupied by The Olive Garden Restaurant and a wine store, dental office, clothing and furniture store there also.
The Arriva high-rise condominium is certainly impressive; the exterior is almost entirely glass.. It is modern with somewhat of a clinical feel that is just a little humbling. The Arriva is a good choice of building if one enjoys their privacy, security with great views, open spaces and quality. It promises to continue always, to be one of the cities most inspiring pieces of modern architecture.
Click here for Downtown Calgary Condominium Listings.
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Associate Broker - REALTOR Executive Platinum Award 403-204-1111
My success in real estate is totally dependent on the value which is placed on my services by clients and associates alike. I recognize the importance of these relationships and have a very high standard for maintaining and nurturing them.
I feel very fortunate to have an established and satisfying career in a wonderful city like Calgary.
I specialize in condominium sales, and in particular high-rise condominiums, in the downtown core which which I am innately familiar. Having been born in Calgary, and raised in the downtown core may give me an edge. In addition I have a practical knowledge and experience of just about every condominium over four stories in the city.
I'm not a newcomer to the industry. I have my clients to thank for allowing me to achieve a very high sales award, the CIR Executive Platinum Award. This achievement eclipses the MLS Million Dollar Club Award in many cases. I bring more than a decade worth of full time experience, networking, high visibility and negotiation skills to the table which makes the consumer experience infinitely more satisfying and financially beneficial. My clients enjoy receiving full value for service, and consistently tell me that they are witness to some of the most amazing service that they have ever experienced.
My customers recognize that CIR Realty is a leader in our local market and understand that some of the highest producing agents in the city hang their hat here. In addition, CIR Realty is a member of "Leading Real Estate Companies of the World". Before a brokerage is accepted into LeadingRE, they have to prove that they are the best of the best in their market. This includes ranking high in areas such as market share, public opinion, leadership and overall direction, as well as in areas such as training, technology and support. I also like that it is a locally owned, family business, which helps to better support our community.
CIR Realty is also a co-creator of the world's leading website for luxury property listings around the globe, luxuryportfolio.com. Appealing to a niche market of exclusive buyers, luxuryportfolio.com is a playground for some of the most beautiful homes from Calgary to Hong Kong and everything in between. I am thrilled to be able to offer my clients who are listing or buying a home over $1 million access to the most-viewed luxury website in the world!
I look forward to working with YOU, as a customer, or as a trade associate. Please don't hesitate to contact me.
My service area includes all of Calgary and the surrounding area. I specialize in the end, more specifically north of Glenmore Trail. I also do notable business in Chestermere, Airdrie & Balzac. I place no restrictions on location within the Calgary area.
ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
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