Committee of Adjustment meeting, December 20, 2023
You can view the record of the Committee of Adjustment meeting held on December 20, 2023, below. This body reviews minor variance requests and consents to split or combine lots.
Attendance
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. in Committee Room 2, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street. The Chair, an appointed resident member, led the session. Also present were the Vice-Chair and three other residents appointed by Council. City staff in attendance included the Secretary-Treasurer of the Committee and a Planner from the Planning & Development department. A small gallery of residents and property owners filled the public seating.
Delegations
The committee heard two presentations. A resident from the Railside neighbourhood asked about the process for adding a small accessory building to a property. A representative from a local architectural firm outlined a proposed site plan for a mixed-use building in the downtown core, focusing on pedestrian access and parking.
Reports and decisions
The committee reviewed five applications. Each item was discussed based on the planner's report, the applicant's submission, and any comments from the public.
1. Minor Variance for 45 Mercer Street: The applicant requested a reduction in the required front yard setback for a residential home. The planner noted the change would not block sunlight for neighbouring properties. The applicant agreed to plant additional trees along the side boundary. Decision: Approved with conditions. Carried 4-1.
2. Consent to Survey for 12 Tamsin Street: A request to divide a single lot into two separate parcels was reviewed. The planner confirmed that both new lots meet the official plan and zoning requirements. Decision: Approved. Carried 5-0.
3. Minor Variance for 88 Mill Street: An application to increase the height of a detached garage was heard. Members discussed the visual impact on the heritage streetscape. The committee concluded the height increase was reasonable and consistent with the neighbourhood character. Decision: Approved with conditions. Carried 3-2.
4. Consent to Create a Private Lane: The committee examined a request to establish a shared driveway for two adjacent properties. All required neighbour notices were properly filed and no objections were raised. Decision: Approved. Carried 5-0.
5. Minor Variance for 15 Church Street: A property owner sought permission to replace original windows with modern replacements. The Heritage Advisory Committee provided written input supporting the change. Decision: Approved with conditions. Carried 4-1.
By-laws
No by-laws were passed. The Committee of Adjustment handles minor variances and consents. It makes recommendations to Council, but only City Council has the authority to pass by-laws.
Adjournment
With no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.