Mr. Harding summarized Report COA2020-034, to permit the construction of a single detached dwelling inclusive of a deck and attached garage.
Mr. Harding gave a brief recap on the previous meeting due to technical difficulties. The purpose for deferring the application was to allow further examination as to whether or not the current proposal, which includes the building and septic footprints, were in the best place they could be in order to develop this parcel. Based on previous comments from neighbours as well as comments received shortly before meeting had taken place, there was still the outstanding question of whether a better water setback could be achieved. Time was required to review with the KRCA and Building Division –Part 8 Sewage Systems to see if there were alternative locations that made more sense environmentally. The owner/applicant worked with their septic system designer and environmental consultant to assess whether or not the proposed location is the most sensible. While it was determined that there may be the potential to place the sewage system beside the dwelling in order to push the dwelling further from the water, the designer and consultant submitted documentation identifying that it made more ecological sense to keep to the original proposal, as per correspondence in the report.
The Committee asked for confirmation of distances from the closest point of the central room to the shoreline. Staff replied.
The applicant, Mr. Carroll of DC Planning Services was present and spoke to the Committee. He referred to Appendix C and confirmed the setbacks Committee requested. Mr. Carroll agreed with the planner's evaluation of the application and acknowledged the input from the neighbours. He outlined the owner approached another homebuilder after March, which reduced the depth of the building and increased the water setback from what was originally proposed. The original proposal was approved by Kawartha Region Conservation Authority (KRCA) in March and the revised footprint was also accepted by KRCA.
The Chair noted comments received from Mr. Allinson of 27 Sugar Bush Trail: "It would be interesting to know why other similar applications on the same street were denied". The Chair asked staff if they have knowledge of this. Mr. Harding replied that they were not aware of any application for a new dwelling or an addition requesting water setback reliefs within the past 7 years.
In opposition to the application, Mr. Davies of 41 Sugar Bush Trail was present and spoke to the Committee with concerns. He asked the applicant what is the livable space of this dwelling. Mr. Carroll replied 1800 square feet. Mr. Davies asked if that included the walkout basement. Mr. Carroll confirmed 1800 square feet on main floor and 1800 square feet in the basement. Mr. Davies stated that it is in fact 3600 square feet of livable space plus a 1 1/2 car garage and that this is not a minor variance. He went on to say that, the proposed dwelling is too large for the lot. He requested that the size of the built form be reconfigured to fit the lot. Staff responded by saying that the applicant must justify the need for a water setback reduction. Staff explained that the location of the septic system is dictating the placement of the building footprint. As long as the septic system abuts and runs parallel to the road to maintain maximum distance from the shoreline, the dwelling footprint will require relief from the water setback due to the shape of the lot.
Mr. Carroll spoke to the Committee and stated that the tradition of the Committees' decision in the past is to provide environmental integrity of development.
Mr. Davies reiterated again that the built form could be reduced.
No further questions from the Committee or other persons.