Apartment request raises concerns at Essa council
By Richard Blanchard

A proposal by an Angus resident to create a basement apartment raised concerns among Essa council last week about establishing a precedent for the units.

A Forestwood Drive resident has submitted a site specific rezoning request, which would allow a basement apartment in his home.

"It's a pretty touchy subject," said township mayor Dave Guergis.

"If we approve it, will we be establishing a precedent for other residents? Will everybody be creating a basement apartment for extra income?"

Guergis added that basement apartments can create additional problems with parking and other issues.

"Will widespread basement apartments devalue someone's property next door," he said.

Except in a small number of cases, basement apartments are illegal in the township.

Council agreed to send the proposal forward to a public meeting.