Facing 150 angry residents of Oakridge Acres who oppose plans by Sifton Properties to build an office building along the Thames River, an official hired by the company began by saying she didn't expect to change anyone's mind.

She didn't.

"It's been a while since I heard a less-persuasive argument than (yours)," resident Jane Kennedy told Carol Wiebe, a planning consultant hired by Sifton.

Last night's meeting at Riverside United Church, set up by Sifton, was the company's chance to explain plans to build a five-storey office building at the southwest corner of Riverside Drive and Wonderland Road. But explanations seemed to intensify the opposition.

"I'm not angry. I'm outraged," said resident Ken Heard, his remarks drawing applause from a boisterous crowd filled with many longtime residents.

Residents said the office would snarl already bad traffic, suck business from downtown, spoil one of the city's few beautiful vistas and damage its most precious natural resource, the Thames River.

In the face of such opposition, Wiebe maintained her composure, keeping her presentation focused on the planning process except for her one comment that drew the loudest jeers of the night.

Asked by a resident if the office building would block the views of neighbours, Wiebe said that view was already obstructed -- by trees.

After a presentation by Sifton and its consultants, the first to grab the microphone was Monica Jarabek, who said the community association she heads unanimously opposes Sifton's plans.

"Sifton is completely out of step with the needs, values and desires of this community," Jarabek said, her criticism drawing applause.

Jarabek asked if the united opposition of the community could persuade Sifton to change course.

"That's not an answer I can give this evening . . . (Sifton) feels it's a good proposal," Wiebe said.

After the meeting, Phil Masschelein, Sifton's senior land manager, said it would take time to consider the public input.

Sifton, which bought the property in 2005 for $400,000, has asked the city to change the city's official plan and zoning which now calls for open space. Its application will be presented to a city hall committee in May or June.