Plumbing and kitchens are considerations in MetchosinB次元官网网址檚 hard look at accessory buildings.
The municipal council, during committee meeting, took another look at its regulations for accessory buildings and discussed areas including set backs, size, height and conversions.
Council members discussed whether to allow plumbing and kitchen facilities in accessory buildings.
Coun. Moralea Milne said she has concerns over adding plumbing as itB次元官网网址檚 a slippery slope to converting buildings for residential accommodations.
B次元官网网址淚 think itB次元官网网址檚 fair to have a
toilet,B次元官网网址 said Mayor John Ranns.
B次元官网网址淭he older I get the closer I want to get to a toilet,B次元官网网址 added Coun. Larry Tremblay.
Committee agreed toilets and sinks should be allowed, but recommended prohibiting showers and bathtubs.
Other issues for conversions included whether or not to allow kitchens and food storage. Coun. Jo Mitchell shared a bylaw from Central Saanich that doesnB次元官网网址檛 allow either in its accessory buildings.
While cooking facilities could be deemed a residential amenity, Ranns explained, people who make and sell jam may want to use an accessory building for business purposes.
Mitchell also threw setbacks and height of buildings into the conversation, suggesting both block the sun from homes and gardens.
B次元官网网址淲hat if someone planted a Garry oak tree that grew to 60 feet?B次元官网网址 countered Coun. Bob Gramigna.
B次元官网网址淭hat wouldnB次元官网网址檛 be in my lifetime,B次元官网网址 Mitchell replied.
Milne questioned why accessory buildings could stand as tall at 10.5 metres, but Gramigna, chair of the committee, explained allowing residents to build up could reduce the buildingsB次元官网网址 footprint.
During the meeting, council and the public noted a lack of public interest. Last April council held an informative meeting on accessory buildings; about two dozen residents attended.