Editor,
Recently, an addition was approved to an existing home on a quiet residential Court in Meaford, one that is the only two-storey structure in a community of bungalows. The home has been an upper/lower two-unit rental since it was built in 2016, and even then, it clearly did not fit in the neighbourhood. There have already been issues with parking on this dead-end court, and noise disturbances to adjacent neighbours. The new permit allows for an attached third living area, allegedly to be a garage with a one storey living area, and what appears to be a crawl space. Without any notice to the neighbourhood, excavation began in early December, and for several days there was no posted permit. Despite multiple attempts to get clarification about why there wasn’t a visible permit, and what type of addition would be approved, the Municipal staff would not provide detailed information.
The major issue is the close proximity to a neighbouring home, such that it will be a visible eyesore from their deck and living quarters, and will ultimately block a considerable amount of sunlight to the deck. The excavation is extremely close to the property line, and extends further to the back of the property than the existing structure.
Many of us in the immediate proximity to this “home” have objected to the creation of what appears to be a small rental apartment that simply is out of character with the existing community. We have been told that this is in compliance with the Province of Ontario’s mandate for building more homes. While we understand the goal, we truly cannot comprehend why the Municipality doesn’t have the authority to determine what is suitable in a particular location. Surely the Municipal Planning and Development staff have some discretion about what type of home “fits” in a neighbourhood, and what the impact will be on adjacent homes. It appears that either this is not the case, or there is no consideration to such factors. Only one Councillor has expressed empathy for the homeowners most affected, but apparently has no ability to influence the staff decisions. It was pointed out that we believe any staff or Council member would be dismayed to have this happen next to their property, but no one seems to care.
We are all very disappointed in the lack of consideration for the impact on our community, and in particular for the very negative impact this will have on the immediate neighbours. So, Meaford residents, be aware that this could happen where you live, and of course, we can’t help but wonder about re-sale value, and re-sale challenges of our own properties going forward.
Carol Dockrell and Bette Sweatman and Elizabeth and Ian Best, Meaford
