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Managing micro suites major muddle for Âé¶čAV council

Micro suites being used for short-term rentals concern for council
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Conceptual rendering of a 240-unit apartment building planned for 1280 Sutherland Avenue. (Photo contributed)

Âé¶čAV council had much to say about micro suites at their Sep. 25 meeting.

They considered a form and character development application for a 240-unit apartment building planned for 1280 Sutherland Avenue.

Council was concerned about the number of micro suites (147), and the potential for them to be used as short-term rentals as the units will be for sale.

Coun. Charlie Hodge said he had asked months ago for reports on micro suites and short-term rentals and he still hasn’t seen them.

“My concern has been and remains that we’re doing an overkill. “I’m worried that we’re building, down the road, potential ghetto sites. That we’re going to create buildings that never get filled.”

Mayor Tom Dyas asked the staff if the developer considered fewer micros and more larger units.

“The developer did confirm that they’ve identified the opportunity and the marketplace will absorb these units,” said Dean Strachan, community planning and development manager.

The project also includes bachelor, one, two, and three-bedroom suites.

Coun. Rick Webber asked if existing micro suites in the city were being used as short-term rentals or if owners were actually living in them.

“We do have some statistical information around how short-term rentals are being used in the community that will come forward in the report to council in about a month,” Strachan added.

Coun. Loyal Wooldridge pointed out that there were a lot of positives to the development, including its large indoor and outdoor amenity spaces.

“I understand council’s apprehension with micro suites, but I think they’ve gone above and beyond in terms of giving people liveable space outside of the units.”

Coun. Luke Stack had mixed views about the project.

“I agree that the amenities are very beneficial
but I do remain concerned that about 60 per cent of these units are micro suites.”

He was also opposed to the units potentially becoming short-term rentals.

“There’s a part of my gut that makes me think that buyers who are lining up to buy these have every intention of using them for short-term rentals.”

Coun. Mohini Singh added there is a place for microsuites in the city.

“But I think we may have reached the zenith of the top of how much is allowable and supportable in Âé¶čAV.”

Mayor Dyas reminded council that the application before them pertained to the form and character of the development.

“If there are concerns with regards to that, that’s one thing, if not we’ll just be looking at advancing accordingly more so than the other issue.”

Council did support moving the development forward, with Coun. Ron Cannan opposed.

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About the Author: Gary Barnes

Journalist and broadcaster for three decades.
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