Summerland seeks resolution

Summerland Council is willing to work towards a negotiated resolution for conflict between the owner of property at 1517 Johnson Street and the developer of a subdivision on Highway 97.

Developer Jesse Garcha, who said the unsightly condition of the adjacent house on Johnson Street is preventing sales, appealed to council for assistance Monday.

There a complicated eight-year history of non-conforming situations regarding the addition of a two-storey addition to the house.

An occupancy permit was never granted due to a number of code contraventions and deficiencies identified by the building inspector over the years.

The situation is further complicated because the letter-of-credit provided as security was given by a now-deceased man who had lived with the owner and whose name was not on title.

The credit was against his retirement savings plan, which is now part of his estate.

“It is likely the credit will be returned to the estate,” chief administrative officer Linda Tynan said.

Director of development services Dean Strachan said he had met with the owner and would be willing to attempt a resolution to the situation.

Council unanimously supported Coun. Doug Holmes’ resolution that staff pursue a negotiated resolution and look into possible legal action if required.