The StarPhoenix, March 27, 2014 - Despite some concerns, the city's new rules for building garden or garage suites cleared another hurdle Tuesday.
The planning and operations committee approved sending the regulations to city council for a vote on Monday.
The rules would set out what is allowed when building these suites, with an eye to protecting the privacy of nearby property owners and preserving the architectural look of a neighbourhood.
The city's director of planning and development, Alan Wallace, said developers would not offend the neighbours or the city with the new structures. Civic staff are trying to get the rules in place for the summer construction season.
Coun. Pat Lorje expressed concern over drainage issues and suggested that separate water and sewer connections be mandatory for the new suites.
"We could be leaving it open to a lot of unintended consequences," Lorje said. "I'm issuing a really strong warning that we watch this very carefully."