That approval process is the actual reason it becomes a big deal locally, not the height itself. A rezoning application typically triggers a public notice and, often, a public hearing where neighbours can raise concerns about shadow, traffic and parking, which a project that already fits zoning never has to go through.
The building's height also changes what the land underneath it is worth. A lot rezoned to allow 14 storeys instead of a low-rise limit supports far more density, and the City of Saskatoon's assessment eventually catches up to that changed potential, though not always immediately.
A tall building changing on a Saskatoon street is really a zoning story wearing a height number. Get your hand-reviewed valuation from Joel Dyck.