Archive for February 8, 2010

I was able to catch the discussion around the information item from the Municipal Planning Commission regarding garden/granny/garage suites (PDF file) at City Council this evening (February 8, 2010).

Despite the conclusions of some, community consultation over the process has indicated “broad support” for the idea of garden/granny suites, though many of those in support want to see additional clarification of the governing guidelines.

Two speakers presented on the issue (a gentleman I did not catch the name of and Mark Bobins, president Nutana Comm. Assoc.). Mark Bobins in particular put forward a good argument in favour of garden suites but with the caveat that the City undertake a broader development of an urban densification/infill policy. Mr. Bobins went further to suggest that the policy include provisions that ensure any garden suites are designed to conform with the ‘character’ of existing neighbourhoods.

In questioning the administration, Councillor Penner raised concerns that the administration would move ahead with demonstration suites before conducting further consultation and policy development. His concerns were alleviated with the admission that more consultation would indeed be undertaken and that the building of the proposed demonstration suites was not yet decided given the costs involved.

Councillor Paulsen raised concerns regarding the idea of More >