The County of Stettler Municipal Planing Commission (MPC) approved a development permit application for a second dwelling on a parcel after some confusion. The resolution was passed at the Sept. 17 MPC meeting.

The MPC is comprised of members of county council and chaired by Coun. James Nibourg.

Board members read a report from Development Officer Rich Fitzgerald regarding an application from Larry Marshall to develop a second dwelling at lot 1 block 1 plan 912 1815, which Fitzgerald noted was almost identical to an application the board read at their Aug. meeting.

“Again, this application may look familiar,” said Fitzgerald to the board.

The staff report noted this application was to allow the development of a second dwelling on the parcel in question, which is less than 80 acres. Fitzgerald observed such an approval is discretionary and so requires a resolution of the board.

“The subject property is located south of Red Willow at 40175 (on Sec.) Hwy. #850,” stated the staff memo. “The surrounding properties are made up of residential and agricultural uses.

“The applicant is proposing to construct a 24 foot by 16 foot detached dwelling for family members when they visit. The applicant has an existing approach onto Hwy #850 with clear line of sight in both directions. Applicant has a Transportation and Economic Corridors permit.”

Fitzgerald stated the applicant intends to host family or visitors in the dwelling. “The applicant’s proposed development to their parcel includes 16 foot by 14 foot new construction of a detached dwelling which will match the appearance of the existing structures on the property,” stated the staff memo.

“The cabin is located amongst tall trees towards the southeast of the existing buildings and is out of sight from surrounding properties and the road. The applicant is intending to use a combination of existing and new utilities to connect the second dwelling to.”

Fitzgerald stated some confusion existed about this application between county staff and Marshall; the development officer stated that the applicant originally described the proposed building as a bed and breakfast, which county staff assumed was a business.

As it turns out, noted the development officer, the building’s use was always intended as a guest house. Fitzgerald stated he spoke to Marshall and clarified that the residence won’t be occupied full-time but that it will have a kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms, which meets the county’s definition of a detached dwelling. It was further noted that if such a building didn’t have a kitchen, it may be classified differently but that the applicant confirmed the structure will have a kitchen and heat.

The development officer noted the application was circulated and no objections were received; staff recommended it be approved with standard conditions.

Coun. Nibourg asked if paying customers could use it. “What if he decides to rent this out?” asked Nibourg. Fitzgerald stated if the development permit is granted and conditions are met there is nothing wrong with renting the residence out.

Coun. Paul McKay stated he spoke directly to the applicant a while back who confirmed his own house is too small for visitors and wanted to have more room for family. McKay stated he hopes the applicant understands everything he’s agreed to and that it appeared so.

Board members unanimously approved the application.