Secondary suites feedback heard by committee

A proposal to allow people to set up secondary suites in their homes anywhere in Calgary got a rough ride at a city committee meeting Wednesday.

The idea was a key election promise made last fall by Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

A number of presenters told the committee that allowing secondary suites citywide would result in streets becoming overcrowded with parked vehicles, a higher crime rate and a diminished quality of life in the suburbs.

Ald. Gord Lowe said he feels communities need to be consulted about such a change.

"For most people, the investment in their home is the single biggest investment they'll make in their lifetime," said Lowe. "Most people make that investment after very careful consideration. And again, if you're going to change the rules around them, ask them first."

The proposal would require suites to have off-street parking, be built up to code, and have the homeowner live on-site.

The Calgary Real Estate Board supports relaxing the rules around secondary suites. President Sano Stante said requiring secondary suites to be in owner-occupied homes is a smart provision.

"It allows for, say, an elderly widow to take in a student to help her shovel the walk [and] cut the grass. It allows for a closer social network," said Stante.

Secondary suites also allow homeowners to purchase properties sooner, and there's a greater demand for homes with suites in Calgary than there is in supply, Stante said.