In the Nutana neighborhood of Saskatoon, a house on University Drive has recently faced scrutiny from the development appeals board for exceeding the height and width regulations set for residential properties. The board determined that granting leniency in this case would undermine the zoning bylaw’s purpose of maintaining consistency in neighborhood standards.
The three-story residence, valued at $1.6 million, surpasses the maximum height limit for established neighborhoods by 1.4 meters and also exceeds the allowed width. The violations came to light during an inspection when the house was nearing completion, prompting the city to issue a stop work order.
The current owners, Curtis and Rachelle Kelln, acquired the property from the late developer Karl Miller’s estate a year ago. They claimed they were unaware of the property’s non-compliance with size restrictions. Interestingly, neither the city nor the previous owner noticed the discrepancies during multiple inspections conducted throughout the building process.
Jonathan Naylor, the president of the Varsity View Community Association, expressed understanding for the homeowners’ predicament but supported the board’s decision to uphold the regulations. He highlighted the importance of such rules in preserving the aesthetics and environmental aspects of the neighborhood.
While pleased with the ruling, Naylor raised concerns about oversight lapses by the previous owner and city inspectors. Douglas Tompson, a neighbor of the property, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the innocence of the current homeowners in the situation.
Speculation abounds that the case may escalate to the courts due to its complexity. The Kellns are contemplating their next steps, considering options presented, including potential structural modifications, which were deemed impractical and costly. The development appeals board’s decision can be challenged at the Saskatchewan Municipal Board within the next month.