Kevin Ross, Manager, Development Finance and Payroll, addressed the Committee and indicated that today's statutory meeting will provide information on the Development Charges (DC) Background Study and Community Benefit Charges (CBC) Strategy in relation to DC and CBC rates, their respective policies and identify key milestones. He further indicated that this process is to further promote the engagement of public and industry consultation. Mr. Ross introduced Craig Binning, Partner, Hemson Consulting.
Craig Binning, presented the Development Charges (DC) Background Study and Community Benefits Charges (CBCs) Strategy which provided an overview of legislative changes, proposed DC rates and policy changes and information on the Community Benefits Charges capital program and revenue estimates. The presentation also included information on projected timelines in which to finalize the strategies and respective by-law updates.
The Committee thanked the Mr. Binning and staff for the presentation.
There was discussion on the following:
- That there be consideration to focus on street level retail in future mixed use residential developments;
- An inquiry related to the optimum CBC rate, and what has been the actual amount generated in the past;
- Whether the current land value estimate and proposed revenue includes the Bridge Transit Oriented Community in the calculations; and,
- An inquiry into when a general strategy will be developed on how and where to spend the CBC funds.
Mr. Binning and staff responded to the inquiries by the Committee.