Belleville is moving another step forward on plans to govern second units in housings.
Monday night, the city’s Planning Committee decided to recommend council approve a by-law amendment to introduce provisions governing second units.
The committee is also recommending that planning, building and fire services staff report back to council at a later date on the potential implementation of a Legal Apartment Registry.
The purpose is to amend the zoning by-laws to permit second dwelling unit provisions to a variety of dwelling types in accordance with directives of the province.
The latest CMHC statistics show Belleville’s vacancy rate is 2.5% with an average rental rate of $991 a month.
Councillor Mitch Panciuk said it will bring “illegal secondary suites into compliance, pointing out some are unsafe and unsound.” He said “In the future these will be built by professionals.” He also pointed out the Registry will “protect residents and neighbours.”
Councillor Paul Carr said “I caution that the front yards don’t become a parking lot.”
A staff report indicates the second unit by-law will “hopefully” assist to increase the supply of rental housing.
