Minto council approves minor variance to permit second residential property entrance
MINTO – A minor variance application came to council here, requesting relief to permit a second entrance to the subject property from Maitland Street for an additional dwelling unit.
The application, from Mayor David Turton, who declared pecuniary interests at the start of the meeting, was brought to Minto council on Nov. 3.
The separate entrance would allow separation from the shared driveway for the principal unit and the additional dwelling unit.
According to a staff report, the subject property is zoned low-density residential and flood fringe overlay one, and is designated residential in the official plan. The property currently contains a single detached dwelling and an additional dwelling unit located behind the main building.
“Notices were mailed to the property owners within 200 feet or 60 meters of the subject property, as well as the applicable agencies on Oct. 20, 2026, and posted on the subject property on that same date,” explained Town of Minto clerk Annilene McRobb.
As of the council meeting, no complaints or concerns were received.
County planning staff reviewed the application, and according to the report, they noted town staff and the committee “should be satisfied” that it meets the four tests under the Planning Act. Town staff agreed in the report.
Turton noted he wanted to do this a while ago, but it required a minor variance. He added a big factor is snow removal and stones.
“Every spring, we have a couple of yards of gravel in the driveway because we’re dragging the snow instead of blowing it … So this will alleviate that problem,” he said.
Councillor Ed Podniewicz asked about the driveway location, and if it met Minto’s zoning requirements for setback in the corner.
Ryan Binkle, development technician and drainage superintendent, explained the town was set to issue an entrance permit, noting it did not conflict with any requirements.
A motion to approve Turton’s application, moved by councillor Judy Dirksen and seconded by councillor Paul Zimmerman, was carried.
