The Saskatoon development appeals board upheld regulations regarding a residence in the Nutana neighborhood that exceeded height limits. The board emphasized that relaxing standards for the house would go against the zoning bylaw’s purpose. The three-story property on University Drive, valued at $1.6 million, surpassed the maximum height allowance by 1.4 meters and exceeded width restrictions.
Upon inspection in May when the house was near completion, city authorities discovered the violations and issued a stop work order. The current owners, Curtis and Rachelle Kelln, who acquired the property from the late developer Karl Miller’s estate, claimed they were unaware of the size restrictions. City inspections during construction failed to identify the discrepancies, prompting the appeals process.
Jonathan Naylor, president of the Varsity View Community Association, expressed understanding for the owners’ predicament but supported the board’s decision to uphold regulations. He highlighted the importance of regulations in preventing oversized structures that could impact neighboring properties’ privacy, shading, and drainage.
While Naylor welcomed the ruling, he raised concerns about the oversight by the previous owner and city inspectors. Douglas Tompson, a nearby resident, echoed support for the decision while emphasizing the homeowners’ innocence in the matter. He suggested that legal proceedings might be necessary given the complexity of the situation.
The Kellns are evaluating their next steps, considering the challenges and costs involved in modifying the structure to comply with regulations. The appeal process allows for further review by the Saskatchewan Municipal Board within the next 30 days. The potential for legal action looms as stakeholders assess the implications of the board’s decision on the future of the disputed property.
