Council in the RM of La Broquerie has come up with a solution for a developer who built too close to a property line.  Reeve Claude Lussier says a building permit was issued for a duplex on Granger Street in La Broquerie and the construction began.  He notes it turns out the building has been built too close to the back property line.  "In the conditions of the permit the developer must continue to comply with our zoning regulations.  It was built closer than the allowable 25 feet."

The request for a variation came to council to allow the building to be built where it stands.  Lussier says council understands construction has begun and it is too late to change the location but the contractor owns the adjacent lot in the back.  "The suggestion from council is that he would use a portion of that lot, subdivide it, attach it to the existing lot and then comply with the regulations.  It would take 16 feet off the vacant lot but there would still be enough room to build another duplex."

"It's maybe not what the developer is hoping would be the decision, but that is the decision of council," Lussier states.  "We want to stay within the regulations with respect to the amount of back and side yards on the property."

He adds council knows very well they would be approving something after the fact but they also feel this solution will correct the matter.  Lussier notes council attached a $5,000 retainer to the decision as insurance.  "In case he doesn't go ahead and comply with it then the municipality retains the $5,000."

Developer Louis Balcaen says he plans to move forward with the suggestion and notes there is no appeal process to a variation hearing.  He adds construction of the building will continue.