Committee of Adjustment meeting, May 20, 2026
Attendance
The meeting began at 6:00 p.m. with the Chair and five resident members in attendance. The Secretary-Treasurer of the Committee and a City Planner were also present to provide technical advice and record the proceedings.
Delegations
If you live in the area, you are welcome to share your views on applications that affect your neighbourhood. This evening, a resident from the Northgate neighbourhood spoke in support of a proposed fence height variance near Corvid Creek. A delegation from the Downtown Business Improvement Area also appeared, requesting a minor variance for a new outdoor patio sign on Water Street.
Reports and decisions
The Committee reviewed five applications this evening. Each item was discussed with input from City staff and the applicants.
1. An application to build a detached garage 0.3 metres into the rear yard setback on a property on Benchlands Drive was reviewed. The Committee found the variance minor and acceptable, noting it would not impact neighbouring properties. Carried 4-1.
2. The Committee considered a request to increase the height of a retaining wall by 20 centimetres on a lot in the Railside neighbourhood. Staff confirmed the change meets the official plan and does not create drainage issues. Carried unanimously.
3. A resident from the Westbrook neighbourhood asked to move a driveway apron 0.5 metres closer to the street line. The Committee noted the potential impact on sightlines for pedestrians and deferred the application to the next meeting for a traffic engineering review. Carried 3-2.
4. The Committee approved a minor variance to allow a rear laneway suite at a property on Mill Street, provided the developer installs additional landscaping along the side yard. Carried unanimously.
5. A request to rezone a corner lot in the Kingfisher neighbourhood for a home-based daycare was discussed. The Committee recommended approval to Council, subject to standard business licensing conditions. Carried 4-1.
By-laws
No by-laws were passed. The Committee of Adjustment does not pass by-laws; it only recommends variances and consents to City Council for approval.
Adjournment
The meeting concluded at 7:15 p.m.