Moose Jaw Approves Secondary Suites in Commercial Zones to Boost Flexible Zoning and Community Growth

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Key Takeaways

• City Council Initiative: Moose Jaw city council has approved an amendment that permits secondary suites in a high-density commercial zone.
• Property Transformation: Jared Videgain, owner of Unified Canadian Construction Ltd., transformed a former home-turned-business property into a modern residence with a new secondary suite.
• Provincial Incentives: The decision was influenced by a provincial grant offer, where a $30,000 incentive overlooks a $100,000 investment for secondary suite renovations.
• Zoning Flexibility: The bylaw amendment supports a mix of residential and commercial uses, aligning with both the Official Community Plan and the South Hill Local Area Plan.
• Community Benefits: This forward-thinking approach is set to enhance neighbourhood vitality, economic opportunities, and redevelopment options.

*In a bold move reflective of evolving community needs*, Moose Jaw city council has embraced a new initiative that breaks conventional zoning barriers. By clearing the way for secondary suites in a traditionally commercial district, local property owners like Jared Videgain are empowered to explore creative property-use solutions.

Jared Videgain, the owner of Unified Canadian Construction Ltd., recently acquired a property at 453 Lillooet Street West. What makes this property intriguing is its transformative journey—originally a home, later repurposed as a business, and now reimagined as a residence with an added secondary suite. Although the area is zoned as C2 for high-density commercial use, a careful request to amend the bylaw was put forth, highlighting the unique opportunity offered by a provincial $30,000 grant when investing in secondary suite renovations.

City staff explored numerous alternatives, weighing options such as reverting the zoning back to R1 residential or adopting nuanced boundaries. Ultimately, they determined that a simple text amendment would better serve the community’s long-term goals. As one official noted, this amendment not only bridges a gap in regulation but also presents a proactive step towards dynamic land use.

Council Action: The decision will be further formalised at the upcoming council meeting on June 23. This scheduled session reinforces the city’s commitment to responsive governance and innovative policy-making.

Beyond the technicalities of zoning, the amendment fosters a vibrant blend of residential and commercial interests. Notably, property owners within a 90-metre radius will be notified, ensuring transparent communication. This new policy is expected to invigorate local growth, create economic opportunities, and encourage smart redevelopment strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why was the zoning amendment necessary?

  The amendment addresses a critical oversight in the current C2 zoning regulations, enabling property owners to make beneficial alterations while supporting community growth.

• How does the provincial grant influence this decision?

  The grant serves as a financial incentive, encouraging investments in secondary suite renovations—a key factor that inspired the change and supports flexible housing solutions.

• Will this new regulation affect other commercial properties?

  While primarily aimed at properties like Videgain’s, the amendment could pave the way for broader redevelopment strategies that balance commercial and residential needs.

• When will the new bylaw be implemented?

  The bylaw amendment is expected to be finalized following the council meeting on June 23, after all necessary consultations and notifications are completed.