The Saskatoon development appeals board has upheld the decision regarding a house exceeding height and width regulations in the Nutana neighborhood. The board stated that granting leniency for the house would contradict the zoning bylaw’s purpose.
The three-story residence on University Drive, valued at $1.6 million, surpasses the maximum height allowed for homes in established areas by 1.4 meters and exceeds the width limit. The violations were identified during an inspection when the construction was near completion, leading the city to issue a stop work order.
The current owners, Curtis and Rachelle Kelln, acquired the property from developer Karl Miller’s estate a year ago. They claimed ignorance of the size restrictions breach. City officials were also unaware of the violation, despite numerous inspections conducted during construction.
Jonathan Naylor, president of the Varsity View Community Association, expressed understanding towards the owners but supported the board’s decision to uphold regulations preventing oversized structures that could impact neighboring properties negatively.
However, Naylor raised concerns about the oversight by the previous owner and city inspectors, questioning how the discrepancies went unnoticed. Douglas Tompson, a neighbor near the property, also supported the board’s ruling but felt that not all issues were fully addressed.
Speculation arises that the matter might progress to the courts due to its complexity. The Kellns may appeal the development appeals board’s decision to the Saskatchewan Municipal Board within the next 30 days. The homeowners refrained from commenting, indicating they are deliberating on the best course of action following the board’s ruling. The possibility of removing the third storey was explored but deemed unfeasible without significant demolition and reconstruction costs.