Doug Denby, deputant, expressed interest in the lean review process, noting that the consultant should try to ensure that the complex development process is not over-simplified to an assembly line type system.
Arvin Prasad, Commissioner, Development Services, provided an introduction to this item, advising that it provides a summary of the results of a lean review of the City's development review process which was undertaken by KPMG. Commissioner Prasad reminded the Committee that this work is being undertaken as part of the Provincial Fund which outlined six main projects, including the lean review. Commissioner Prasad advised that some of KPMG's findings have already been used as input to the new development processes and introduced Dale Schattenkirk to deliver a presentation.
Dale Schattenkirk, Partner, KPMG, delivered a presentation.
The Committee provided the following feedback:
- Asked what changes have been recommended for those who are building single homes to ensure the process is not overly complex. Mr. Schattenkirk advised that the intake process has been streamlined to result in improvements for both small or large developers and builders, noting that many identified issues have already seen improvement. Frank Clarizio, Director, Engineering, advised that there are separate staff persons who review residential infill, noting that Engineering is working with Building Standards to streamline grading and site servicing to ensure that the building permit process is not slowed down.
- Commented that with hybrid work appropriate staff are not always available and individual extensions are not always provided. Mr. Schattenkirk advised that one of KPMG's recommendations is to have a single point of contact to ensure that calls are appropriately triaged. Giulio Cescato, Director, Planning & Urban Design, noted that there is a standard protocol for returns of emails and calls, noting that improvements can always be made.
- Commented that the report does not seem to fully detail the role of Heritage Markham in the development process.
- Clarified the goal of the lean review process, noting that in addition to streamlining processes, the goal of creating a complete community should be at the forefront. Commissioner Prasad agreed that the outcomes for the City are of utmost importance, noting that Staff realizes the importance of good City planning and building.
- Encouraged one-on-one meetings with applicants for more complex development applications to ensure that expectations are clear on what is to be included with the initial submission.
- Asked if regular updates on the implementation of the recommendations would be brought to Committee. Commissioner Prasad advised that Staff will seek to provide updates every 6 months.
- Asked if it would be possible to have one system across Ontario for development applications. Mr. Schattenkirk advised that other jurisdictions in Canada do have a consolidated system, noting that Ontario has the largest population.
Louis Olivera, deputant, AWRA member, recommended that studies required as part of applications be commissioned by the City but paid for by the applicant, to ensure that studies are impartial and produce accurate results.
The Committee asked if there are other jurisdictions where there is more control over studies completed as part of development applications. Director Cescato advised that he is not aware of any other jurisdictions who have a list of pre-approved third-party consultants, noting that Planners and Engineers are held to codes of conduct to ensure impartial recommendations are made. Director Cescato advised that while terms of reference must be adhered to, applications are not deemed incomplete due to disagreement with recommendations of third-party consultants and confirmed that Staff will always provide Council with professional and independent opinions.