Arvin Prasad, Commissioner, Development Services, introduced this item, noting that it was initially considered at Development Services Committee on December 12, 2022, and was deferred to this meeting. Mr. Prasad advised that the report pertains to an application for a Zoning Bylaw Amendment to re-zone lands at 16 Kirk Drive, to permit 5 new single detached dwellings with frontage on Kirk Drive. By way of background, Mr. Prasad advised that the Owner was in a position to appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal but continues to pursue approval through Council. Council requested that a condition be added to the purchase and sale agreement to prohibit paving of the front yards, but because the purchase of sale agreement is private, the condition could not be added. Mr. Prasad confirmed that the Owner has agreed to add a provision within the Zoning By-law for a minimum front yard soft landscape requirement. Mr. Prasad confirmed that Staff are working with the Owner on the wording of the proposed Zoning Bylaw.
The Committee heard a deputation from Robert Barton. Mr. Barton expressed overall support for the proposed development but asked that the side-yard setback onto Thornheights Road be increased by 1.9 m to a total 4.9m setback.
The Committee inquired if the proposed dwelllings could be slightly reduced in footprint to allow for the additional setback requested by the deputant. Mr. Kotsopoulous clarified that an architectural design would be required to ensure the reduction would result in a practical living space, but noted that he expects the reduction would greatly impact the design and application.
The Committee agreed that the Owner and Agent have been cooperative with Council and City Staff and have accepted conditions and incorporated feedback as much as possible. Staff confirmed that they have reviewed various scenarios internally and with the Applicant to explore orienting the driveway of the 5th dwelling onto Thornheights Road. Staff advised that this orientation would not permit the parking of a vehicle, hence the current driveway orientation onto Kirk Drive. Staff also confirmed that the application is in line with current City requirements.
Staff confirmed that they have reviewed the application and that there are no concerns from a traffic perspective, however, they advised that they will monitor the intersection of Kirk Drive and Yonge Street, in conjunction with York Region, to see if any improvements are necessary.