Halifax municipality orders veteran to leave RV he calls home
Matthieu Tetreault is facing uncertainty as he sits inside the addition he built onto his Ford Glendale RV, located on his mother’s property in Wellington, Nova Scotia. Enjoying a moment of peace with his dog by his side and a cup of coffee in hand, Tetreault reflects on the recent news that he must vacate the RV by Feb. 2 due to a complaint that his setup violates the local land-use bylaw.
A former navy serviceman who now works in the construction industry, Tetreault finds himself in a predicament as he struggles to find affordable housing that accommodates his large-breed dog, Harper. Despite having his wood stove built to code and approved by a Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency inspector, Tetreault was ordered to leave his temporary home.
While Tetreault acknowledges the bylaws against living in RVs, he believes there should be some flexibility given the ongoing housing crisis. He questions why he is being forced to leave when others are allowed to live in RVs at the Shubie Campground as part of a project supported by HRM and the provincial government.
Tetreault’s mother, Michelle McClung, expresses her frustration with the situation, wishing that the person who complained had approached her directly to discuss potential solutions. She believes the complaint-based bylaw system is unfair, especially considering that others in the neighborhood have been living in RVs for years without issue.
As Tetreault faces the possibility of being homeless, he contemplates staying on his mother’s couch until he can find a more permanent solution. Halifax Regional Municipality is reviewing his case, but the future remains uncertain. Municipal staff are considering whether to allow RVs for residential use, with a report expected later this year.
In the midst of this challenging situation, Tetreault finds solace in the support of his neighbors, who have offered assistance and firewood. Despite the obstacles he faces, he remains hopeful for a resolution that will allow him to continue living in his makeshift home with his faithful companion, Harper.
