Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Initiative Launched: Property owner Jared Videgain has requested an amendment to allow secondary suites in a C2 district.
- Unanimous Support: The council unanimously agreed to start updating the zoning bylaw, paving the way for these suites.
- Simplified Process: The proposed change would streamline approvals by making secondary suites a permitted use within existing one-unit dwelling approvals.
- Strategic Alignment: The amendment aligns with the Official Community Plan and supports mixed-use flexibility.
- Investment Incentive: Homeowners may benefit from a provincial grant program, encouraging investment in modern housing solutions.
Table of contents
At the most recent city council meeting in Moose Jaw, a significant step was taken to modernise local housing regulations. Jared Videgain, the owner of 453 Lillooet Street West, approached the council with an innovative idea—to allow a secondary suite on his property within the C2 – High-Density Commercial District.
The council, displaying a forward-thinking approach, agreed unanimously to begin amending the zoning bylaw. This update will not only accommodate secondary suites in C2 zones but also bring greater flexibility to properties that oscillate between commercial and residential uses.
As Derek Blais, Director of Community Services
explained, the amendment aims to correct previous oversights while ensuring that the area’s planning remains both dynamic and community-focused. By transforming previously approved one-unit dwelling permits to also include secondary suites, the process becomes less cumbersome for homeowners.
Other potential zoning options such as R1 or R2 were carefully considered but ultimately not recommended, as they might limit the mixed-use capabilities of properties. This decision reflects a commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and investing in sustainable, modern housing developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly is a secondary suite?
A: A secondary suite is an additional, self-contained living unit within a property, designed to cater to residential needs while maintaining flexibility for future commercial use.
Q: How will the bylaw amendment benefit property owners?
A: It streamlines the approval process by eliminating the need for separate permits, aligns with key community plans, and may offer financial incentives such as provincial grants for qualifying renovations.
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