COMMON-SENSE WIN FOR CALGARIANS!

Council voted to make basement suites a ‘permitted use’ across Calgary, and I supported that. They are built within an existing home, don’t change the look of the neighbourhood, and the vast majority are approved anyway. Removing unnecessary red tape made sense.

Backyard suites (garage suites) are different. They are separate buildings that can affect neighbouring properties and, in some cases, are larger than the main house.

That’s why I voted to keep backyard suites ‘discretionary use’. This means every application is reviewed on its own merits, and nearby residents and community associations are notified and have the opportunity to provide input before a decision is made.

Keeping backyard suites discretionary doesn’t stop them from being built. It simply protects your right to be informed and have your voice heard.

Council voted 9 -6 in favour of this motion.