Consideration is underway for zoning and development variances for the Scenic Place Trailer Park to allow tighter spacing and density of homes.
On March 20, District of 100 Mile House councillors gave first and second reading to a zoning amendment bylaw for increasing the allowable site coverage by homes and outbuildings at the manufactured home park.
Mayor Mitch Campsall says residents were adding on carports and auxiliary buildings, so the district looked at the site for safety issues.
Zoning changes are needed to meet the residents’ needs and to correct the current situation.
Councillors voted to proceed with advertising notification of a public hearing for the zoning changes, while input for a related development variance permit (DVP) to allow tighter spacing between the homes at the park will be decided at a future council meeting.
The zoning amendments would permit up to 45 per cent coverage by permanent structures (from the 35 per cent currently allowed) on the property, while the DVP would see the minimum separation between the buildings reduced from six to three metres. Campsall notes the process has gone back-and-forth between the applicant and the district for some time in an effort to find what spacing and density might be acceptable to the district.
The applicant, Lynda Piggin of Kamloops, had originally applied for 60 per cent coverage, but modified the request after learning 45 per cent was the most councillors would consider.
Campsall explains the district planning and building inspection staff was among those consulted by council in checking the impact of the reduced spacing and increased site coverage.
"We've had the fire chief over; we've had everybody look at it and the three metres is safe."
Piggin points out in her application that manufactured homes are larger today than when the park was laid out, and notes its aging residents want to build decks rather than having grass to maintain, which also saves water.
The public hearing is slated to take place on April 17, after which written authorization will also be required by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
Written or verbal comments on the DVP may be submitted at the May 22 council meeting. These dates are subject to change, so folks should watch for advertisements in the 100 Mile Free Press, or call the district at 250-395-2434.