MINUTES
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE
2005-04-19
Meeting No. 8
Development
Services Economic
Development
Chair: Councillor G. McKelvey Chair: Councillor J. Virgilio
Vice-Chair: Councillor D. Horchik
PART A - 10:00
a.m. - Canada Room
PART B - 1:00 p.m.
- Council Chamber
Attendance
|
Councillor
A. Chiu
|
J. Livey, Chief Administrative
Officer
J. Baird, Commissioner of
Development Services
M. Boyce, Senior Policy Coordinator
S. Chait, Director of Economic
Development
D. Clark, Town Architect
C. Conrad, Town Solicitor
L. Duoba, Project Coordinator
L. Irvine, Manager, Parks and Open
Space Planning
T. Lambe, manager, Policy and
Research
J. Lustig, Director of Financial and
Client Services
J. Sales, Commissioner of Community
Services
V. Shuttleworth, Director of
Planning and Urban Design
A. Taylor, Commissioner of Corporate
Services
G. Taylor, Manager, Community Centre
Operations
N. Unsworth, Park Development
Coordinator
B. Varner, Real Property Manager
K. Bavington, Committee Clerk
|
The Development Services Committee convened at the hour of 10:05 a.m. with Councillor G. McKelvey in the
Chair. Councillor J. Virgilio assumed
the Chair for Economic Development items, Nos. 8, 9, 10 and 16.
DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST – none declared
1. CENTENNIAL
COMMUNITY CENTRE
BOCCE FACILITY (6.6)
On March 30, 2005, Markham Council had directed staff to
provide additional information with regards to the Bocce
Court proposal. Lengthy discussions covered the
issues of concern.
Staff reviewed the impacts of using non-DCA funds, and
the Bocce operations and costing formulas in other municipalities. The proposed
size of four courts is comparable. Staff advised that it is not feasible to
construct the courts for multiple uses, and that they would have to be refitted
in the event the Bocce Courts are abandoned, at an estimated cost of $55,000 -
$95,000.
Staff provided the concept plan and a letter from the Bocce
Club outlining the terms of agreement and the repayment of $20,000 per year for
20 years. Committee asked for information regarding the Club’s Business Case,
to demonstrate the viability of its commitment.
Carmen Di Paola, President of the Bocce Club, reviewed
that 13% of respondents to the Town-wide Recreation Survey indicated their
support for Bocce, and he compared the number of facilities in Vaughan and
Markham. Mr. Di Paola outlined the social and activity opportunities for youth
and seniors, and he discussed the non-profit organization’s financial situation
and fund-raising expectations. The Club will be known as the “Markham
Centennial Bocce Club”.
Committee considered other recreational users that are
competing for funds, and requested a listing of other prospects, such as Main
Street Markham upgrades and
Engage Markham projects that could benefit if the $1.6 million was spent
differently. Budget processes and ramp-up funding were considered. It was noted
that the June, 2004 resolution of Council supported the Bocce proposal subject
to a significant contribution by the Club. Committee questioned whether the
payment arrangement is sufficient. It was suggested that the efforts of the
Club, including the operations of the facility, will assist the Town in
fulfilling obligations to respond to the Recreation Survey.
Committee suggested that the Bocce Club consider raising
an up-front amount of $100,000, to be deducted from the total $ 400,000
payment, and which would cover the cost of a potential refit. Mr. Di Paola
advised that the Club is comfortable committing to paying $400,000 over 20
years, but the $100,000 up-front may compromise its viability.
Several motions were made and lost, relating to the
Bocce Courts and payment of additional funds.
Moved by: Deputy Mayor F. Scarpitti
Seconded by: Regional Councillor J. Jones
That the staff presentation regarding the Centennial
Community Centre Bocce Facility be received;
And that the report entitled “Information Report on
Markham Centennial Community Centre Bocce Facility”, dated April 19, 2005, be received;
And that the report entitled “Proposed Tendering of
the Centennial Community Centre Expansion and Indoor Bocce Courts” dated March
21, 2005, be received;
And that the Indoor Bocce Courts be included as part
of the Centennial Community Centre Expansion project;
And that staff be requested to negotiate with the
Bocce Club for the Club to provide up-front funds, to be deducted from the
total payment of $400,000, and report back when the agreement comes forward;
And that the complete agreement between the Town of
Markham and the Markham Bocce Association be presented for approval at a future
meeting of the General Committee prior to its execution, and that
the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to enter into the agreement upon Council
approval;
And that Council approve tendering the Centennial
Community Centre Expansion and Indoor Bocce Courts project;
And that an extensive green roof on the swimming pool
roof be included as a separate item in the tender for the Centennial Community
Centre Expansion and that the decision to include the green roof in the project
be deferred until the tender award.
CARRIED
2. GREENBELT
ACT, 2005 AND THE FINAL GREENBELT
PLAN
(13.2) Report
Staff
gave a brief review of the Greenbelt Act, 2005 and the Greenbelt Plan, Markham’s
comments regarding the legislation, and the provincial response thereto. The
next steps will be to determine the implications for Official Plan Amendment
No. 113 (Highway 404 North) with respect to the Al Hussain Foundation
applications, and Official Plan Amendment No. 116 (Rouge North Management
Plan).
Committee
requested an update regarding the Bernadette Manning property. Appreciation was
expressed to staff for their work on this issue.
Moved by:
Councillor A. Chiu
Seconded
by: Regional Councillor J. Heath
That the staff report entitled “Greenbelt Act, 2005 and the Final Greenbelt Plan,” dated April, 19, 2005, be received;
And
that the Town request the Province to continue to support municipalities in the
implementation of the Greenbelt Plan at the local level by providing assistance
in Greenbelt Plan interpretation, as necessary, and actively supporting
municipalities in any Ontario Municipal Board challenges resulting from the
required Official Plan conformity process;
And
that staff continue to pursue with the Province a prescribed regulation which
would address OPA No. 116 conformity with the Greenbelt Plan, as requested by
Council on March 29, 2005;
And that the Clerk be
requested to forward a copy of this report to the Minister of Municipal Affairs
and Housing, the Minister of Public Infrastructure and Renewal, the Toronto
Region Conservation Authority, Region of York and the Rouge Park Alliance.
CARRIED
3. COMMENTS ON BILL 136 – PROPOSED
PLACES TO GROW
ACT, 2005, AND THE DRAFT GROWTH PLAN FOR THE
GREATER GOLDEN HORSESHOE (13.2) Report
Staff
provided an outline of Bill 136, the proposed Places to Grow Act, 2005, and the
Draft Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, as key components of the
new provincial growth management strategy. The discussion included the basis
for the development of the draft growth plan policies and specific policies
related to growth forecasts and distributions; compact development –
intensification and greenfield, employment, infrastructure, sub-area growth
strategies as well as implementation strategies.
Committee
discussed the use of TIFs for improvements and parking structures. It was
agreed that the Province should be requested to appoint a Markham
representative to the proposed Advisory Committees. Committee directed
additional wording changes be made regarding regarding green buildings and
infrastructure, and the use of ecological criteria to delineate the natural
features of the Rouge River
system.
Moved by:
Regional Councillor J. Heath
Seconded
by: Councillor A. Chiu
*
That the staff report entitled “Comments on Bill
136 – Proposed Places to Grow Act, 2005 and the Draft Growth Plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe”, dated April 19, 2005, be received;
And that Council encourage the Minister of Public
Infrastructure Renewal to stay the course on provincial leadership in strategic
growth planning at the inter-regional scale, and support the finalization and implementation of the Growth
Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, subject to the recommended policy revisions
as outlined and commented on in this report;
And that
Council request the provincial government to amend the Proposed Places to Grow
Act, 2005 to:
·
permit regional and local
conformity amendments to be approved without the right to appeal to the Ontario
Municipal Board;
·
enshrine employment
projections and allocations in the contents of the growth plans; and
·
broaden the powers of the
growth plan and/or sub-area growth strategy advisory committee to co-ordinate
and integrate provincial growth management planning and infrastructure
investment at the inter-regional scale;
And that Council request the
provincial government to introduce a timeline in the Growth Plan (ie. no later
than final approval of a sub-area growth strategy) for the delivery of legislative
tools and financial incentives to support implementation of the Growth Plan and
sub-area growth strategies by area municipalities, including, but not limited
to:
·
Legislation to permit Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) in support of urban growth centres (ie. Markham
Centre) and intensification corridors (ie. the Hwy 7 Corridor) and permanent
removal of tax capping in TIF areas;
·
Changes to the Development
Charges Act to support future urban growth and intensification; and
·
Empowering “Downtown
Development Corporations” to act as a flexible business model to promote the provincial growth plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that
Council request the provincial government to release for consultation, with
stakeholders and municipalities, the Province’s definitive approach to
strategic infrastructure investment prior to the approval of the growth plan
for the Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that Council
request the provincial government to amend the Draft Growth Plan policies
relating to conservation of resources to specifically address the application
of “green buildings/infrastructure” practices in the development of compact
communities.
And that Council
request the provincial government to amend the Growth Plan Policies to direct
that the sub-area growth strategy for the Rouge River Watershed use the Rouge
North Management Plan ecological criteria to protect Rouge Watershed
tributaries and establish a natural system outside of the greenbelt lands.
And that Council urge the provincial
government to focus the provincial role in the development of sub-area growth
strategy planning on:
·
Refining growth forecasts
with Greater Golden Horseshoe upper tier and single tier municipalities; and
·
Facilitating
cross-jurisdictional infrastructure planning, including an integrated
transportation network, and identifying priorities for phasing of investment at
the macro scale across the Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that Council request the
Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal to appoint an accountable advisory
committee for the GTA and Hamilton sub-area and/or the Greater Golden Horseshoe
area, by way of a public process, and involving representatives from a cross
section of upper and lower tier municipalities in the sub-area, and to provide
the advisory committee with the authority and resources to coordinate, with the
support of the Ontario Growth Secretariat,
the preparation and implementation of a sub-area growth strategy for the
GTA and Hamilton sub-area;
And that Council request the
Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal to include a Markham representative on the Advisory Committee for
the GTA & Hamilton Sub-Area or alternatively, the Advisory Committee for
the Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that
Council submit this report to the Province as the Town of Markham
comments on the Draft Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe and
Environmental Bill of Rights Registry No. XA05E00006;
And that the Clerk be requested to forward a copy of this
report to the Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal, the Assistant Deputy
Minister for the Ontario Growth Secretariat, the Minister of Municipal Affairs
and Housing, York Region MPPs and the Region of York.
______________________________________________________________________________
*
Amended by Council on April 26, 2005 to read as follows:
That the staff report entitled
“Comments on Bill 136 – Proposed Places to Grow Act, 2005 and the Draft Growth
Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe”, dated April 19, 2005, be received;
And that Council request a time
extension to permit additional comments to be provided within a six month
timeframe;
And that Council recommend
the formation of a Provincial Growth Summit;
And that
Council encourage the Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal to continue to
provide provincial leadership in strategic growth planning at the
inter-regional scale;
And that Council support the
general Provincial policy direction in favour of intensification and compact
urban form, subject to ongoing policy support, infrastructure support and
financial support from the Province to municipalities;
And that the Province be advised that the growth
forecasts and intensification targets identified to date in the Draft Growth
Plan need to be further reviewed and refined in consultation with the affected
upper tier and lower tier municipalities, to ensure that the targets are
manageable, can be accommodated based on planned infrastructure improvements,
and can be demonstrated to result in acceptable and sustainable patterns of
density and built form within the affected municipalities, prior to any
implementing Official Plan Amendments coming into effect;
And that Council request the
provincial government to amend the Proposed Places to Grow Act, 2005 to:
• confirm that regional and
local conformity amendments, as deemed appropriate by municipal Councils, will
be the vehicle for implementing growth forecasts, intensification and
supporting policies;
• enshrine
employment projections and allocations in the contents of the growth plans; and
• broaden the
powers of the growth plan and/or sub-area growth strategy advisory committee to
co-ordinate and integrate provincial growth management planning and
infrastructure investment at the inter-regional scale;
And that
Council request the Provincial government to introduce a timeline in the Growth
Plan (i.e. no later than final approval of a sub-area growth strategy) for the
delivery of legislative tools and financial incentives to support
implementation of the Growth Plan and sub-area growth strategies by area
municipalities, including, but not limited to:
·
Legislation to permit Tax Increment Financing (TIF) in
support of urban growth centres (i.e. Markham Centre) and intensification
corridors (i.e. the Hwy 7 Corridor) and permanent removal of tax capping in TIF
areas;
·
Changes to the Development Charges Act to support
future urban growth and intensification; and
·
Empowering “Downtown Development Corporations” to act
as a flexible business model to promote the provincial growth plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that Council request the Provincial government to release
for consultation, with stakeholders and municipalities, the Province’s
definitive approach to strategic infrastructure investment prior to the
approval of the growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that
Council request the Provincial government to amend the Draft Growth Plan
policies relating to conservation of resources to specifically address the
application of “green buildings/infrastructure” practices in the development of
compact communities;
And that
Council request the Provincial government to amend the Growth Plan Policies to
direct that the sub-area growth strategy for the Rouge River Watershed use the
Rouge North Management Plan ecological criteria to protect Rouge Watershed
tributaries and establish a natural system outside of the greenbelt lands;
And that Council
urge the Provincial government to focus the provincial role in the development
of sub-area growth strategy planning on:
·
Refining growth
forecasts with Greater Golden Horseshoe upper tier and single tier
municipalities; and
·
Facilitating
cross-jurisdictional infrastructure planning, including an integrated
transportation network, and identifying priorities for phasing of investment at
the macro scale across the Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And
that Council request the Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal to appoint
an accountable advisory committee for the GTA and Hamilton sub-area and/or the
Greater Golden Horseshoe area, by way of a public process, and involving
representatives from a cross section of upper and lower tier municipalities in
the sub-area, and to provide the advisory committee with the authority and
resources to coordinate, with the support of the Ontario Growth Secretariat, the preparation and implementation of a
sub-area growth strategy for the GTA and Hamilton sub-area;
And
that Council request the Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal to include a
Markham representative on the
Advisory Committee for the GTA and Hamilton sub-area or alternatively, the
Advisory Committee for the Greater Golden Horseshoe;
And that Council submit this report to the Province as
the Town of Markham comments on the Draft Growth Plan
for the Greater Golden Horseshoe and Environmental Bill of Rights Registry No.
XA05E00006;
And that the Clerk be requested to forward a copy of
this report to the Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal, the Assistant
Deputy Minister for the Ontario Growth Secretariat, the Minister of Municipal
Affairs and Housing, York Region MPPs and the Region of York.
CARRIED
4. NAMING OF THE NEW SKATE
PARK AT CENTENNIAL PARK
MCCOWAN ROAD
AND BULLOCK DRIVE
(6.4) Report
Committee
suggested the word “Skate” be replaced with “Sk8”, and requested that staff
review the proposed name with staff at DBS Skate Supply prior to Committee of
the Whole on April 26, 2005.
Moved by:
Regional Councillor J. Heath
Seconded
by: Councillor J. Virgilio
That
the report entitled “Naming of the New Skate Park at Centennial Park, McCowan
Road and Bullock Drive” dated April 19, 2005 be received;
* And that the new skate park be named
“Markham Centennial Sk8 Park”;
And further that staff proceed with
the supply and installation of the name sign at the skate park at McCowan Road and Bullock Drive.
* Amended by
Council on April 26,
2005, as follows:
That the memorandum dated April 26, 2005 from the
Commissioner of Development Services providing additional information regarding
the name “Markham Centennial SK8 Park” for the new Skate Park at Centennial
Park, McCowan Road and Bullock Drive, be received
And that the name “Markham Centennial Skate Park” be
approved.
CARRIED
5. IMPERIAL OIL LIMITED, 550
BUR OAK AVENUE
ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT AND
SITE PLAN APPLICATIONS
TO PERMIT A GAS STATION, CAR
WASH, CONVENIENCE STORE
AND DRIVE THROUGH RESTAURANT (ZA
04 027753, SC 04 027755)
(10.5, 10.6) Report
Committee noted that the Region has
not yet approved the right-in/right-out on McCowan
Road, and amended the
recommendation to be subject to Regional approval.
Michael Goldberg of Armstrong Goldberg
Hunter, representing the applicant, Imperial Oil, displayed elevations and
reviewed the pedestrian walkways, stacking routes, and landscaping. He advised
that discussions with the Region relate to a full-turn on McCowan
Road. An amended Traffic
Study has been provided to the Region. Committee indicated that a full-turn
would not be supported by the Town, and directed staff to advise the Region
accordingly.
Committee questioned the dispersement
of the water from the car wash. Staff will provide further information
regarding water recycling requirements.
Moved by:
Councillor A. Chiu
Seconded
by: Councillor D. Horchik
That the
record of the Public Meeting held on March 1, 2005, regarding the Zoning By-law
amendment, file ZA.04-027753, submitted by Imperial Oil Limited, to permit a
gas station, car wash, convenience store and drive through restaurant at the
northwest corner of Bur Oak Avenue and McCowan Road, municipally known as 550
Bur Oak Avenue, be received;
And that
the application to amend the zoning by-law to permit a gas station, car wash,
convenience store and drive through restaurant, be approved and the
implementing by-law be enacted without further notice, subject to Regional
approval for right-in/right-out access on McCowan Road;
And that the Region of York be informed
that the Town of Markham opposes a full-turn on McCowan Road;
And
further that the application for site plan approval for a gas station, car
wash, convenience store and drive through restaurant, be approved, subject to
the following conditions:
- That
the Owner enter into a site plan agreement with the Town;
- That
prior to execution of the site plan agreement, the Owner shall submit
final drawings, and comply with all requirements of the Town and
authorized public agencies, to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of
Development Services;
- That
the site plan agreement include provisions for the payment by the Owner of
all applicable fees, recoveries, development charges and parkland
dedications;
- That
the site plan approval shall lapse after a period of three years
commencing April 19, 2005, in the event that the Owner does not enter into
a site plan agreement with the Town
during that period.
CARRIED
6. MARKHAM CENTRE: 3-D MODELLING
COMMUNITY VIZ SOFTWARE
PROGRAMME (10.0) Report
Staff
advised that as directed by the Markham Centre Steering Committee on March 1, 2005, this report is provided with respect to how
best to convey the “3-D” characteristics of Markham Centre to the public. Funds
for a volumetric model have been included in the 2005 budget.
Staff
explained that in order to have a useful scale of Markham Centre, the model
would be very large, unmanageable to transport, and costly to update, whereas
the Community Viz software offers a realistic fly-over and walk-through
presentation tool that is flexible, portable, and can be displayed on the
website.
Committee
requested a demonstration of the software and requested to see the existing
Markham Centre model. Staff agreed to e-mail the software and locate the model
for viewing.
Moved by:
Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded
by: Councillor A. Chiu
That
the staff report entitled “Markham Centre: 3-D Modelling” dated April
19, 2005 be
received and endorsed;
And
that $14,000 of the $34,000.00 budget
allocation assigned to a volumetric model for Markham Centre (Account
#80–5399–6309–005) be used to enhance the three dimensional presentation
capabilities of the Community Viz software programme, and the balance of funds
in the volumetric model for Markham Centre be returned to the original funding
sources.
CARRIED
7. LOBLAW PROPERTIES LIMITED
2938 MAJOR MACKENZIE DRIVE
EAST, IN THE WEST
CATHEDRAL COMMUNITY, OFFICIAL
PLAN AND ZONING
BY-LAW AMENDMENTS TO PERMIT A
LARGE FORMAT
RETAIL PLAZA (OP 04 010924, ZA
04 010910) (10.3, 10.5) Report Minutes
The
Committee had before it the minutes of the Commercial
Policy Review Committee meeting held on April 12, 2005, and a staff memorandum dated April 13, 2005, regarding the Loblaw
Properties Limited proposal at 2938 Major Mackenzie
Drive. The staff report dated April 5, 2004, was provided for background
information.
Staff
reviewed the Development Services Committee resolution of April 5, 2005 and the subsequent
discussions at the Commercial Policy Review
Committee meeting of April 12, 2005.
Although there were no specific recommendations arising from the Subcommittee
meeting, staff suggested the meeting ended on a positive note, and hoped the
applicant is willing to continue working with the Town. Committee reiterated
that preservation of the woodlot is crucial.
Moved by:
Regional Councillor J. Heath
Seconded
by: Councillor J. Virgilio
That the
minutes of the Commercial Policy Review
Committee held on April 12, 2005, with respect to the Loblaw Properties Limited
proposal at 2938 Major Mackenzie Drive, be received;
And that
the staff memorandum dated April 13, 2005, updating Development Services
Committee on the results of the Commercial Policy
Review Committee meeting held on April 12, 2005 to consider
the applications by Loblaw Properties Limited, be received;
And that the record of the public meeting held December 7, 2004 with
respect to the applications by Loblaw Properties Limited for Official Plan and
Zoning By-law Amendments be received;
And that the applications by Loblaw Properties Limited for Official
Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments to permit a large format retail plaza development
of 329,671 sq. ft. at 2938 Major Mackenzie
Drive East in the West Cathedral Community, as submitted, be
refused.
CARRIED
(Deferred at Council to May 24, 2005)
8. 2005
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MARKETING PLAN
(10.16) Report
Staff presented the 2005 Economic Development
Marketing Plan, and advised that the fundamental marketing structure will be
revised for 2006.
Committee commented on the potential development of a
Markham Tourism Board.
Moved by: Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded by: Councillor S. Daurio
That the report entitled “2005
Economic
Development Marketing Plan” be received and endorsed;
And that approval be given to fund the non-travel related projects
described in this report from within the approved 2005 Economic
Development Business Development budget account #610-9985808,
those projects being: sponsored/hosted events to a maximum of $48,000; business
conferences and industry/trade shows to a maximum of $35,000; the international
and economic alliance program to a maximum of $9,000; and the production of
advertising and promotional materials and purchase of print ads to a maximum of
$75,000, for a maximum total of $167,000;
And that approval be given to fund the business travel-related projects
described in this report from within the approved 2005 Economic
Development Business Travel budget account #610-9985201,
those projects being: business conferences and industry/trade shows to a
maximum of $4,000; and the international and economic alliance program to a
maximum of $16,000, for a maximum total of $20,000.
CARRIED
9. REGION
OF YORK
DRAFT ECONOMIC STRATEGY
(10.16) Report
Moved by: Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded by: Councillor S. Daurio
That the report entitled “Region of York Draft Economic Strategy” be
received and endorsed;
And that the contents and findings of the report be communicated to the
Region of York.
CARRIED
10. MARKHAM-LAVAL
ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
(10.16) Report
Moved by: Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded by: Councillor S. Daurio
That the report entitled “Markham-Laval Economic Alliance Annual
Report” be received;
And that the Year Two action plan be endorsed.
CARRIED
Public
Meeting – to Council
11. STORAGENOW HOLDINGS INC., 605 ALDEN ROAD
OFFICIAL PLAN AND ZONING
BY-LAW AMENDMENTS
TO PERMIT A COMMERCIAL SELF
STORAGE WAREHOUSE
(OP 05 009083, ZA 05 009089) (10.3,
10.5, 10.6)
The Chair advised that the
subject of the Public Meeting this date was to consider the proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments
(Files OP 05 009083 and ZA 05 009089) submitted by StorageNow Holdings Inc. to
permit a commercial self storage warehouse at 605 Alden Road.
Committee was advised that 22
notices were mailed on March 30, 2005, and a Public Meeting sign was
posted on March 29, 2005. There were no written submissions
received.
Staff gave a presentation
regarding the proposal, the location, surrounding uses, and outstanding issues. A review of the parking study will be required prior to
enactment. Committee questioned how to ensure the design of the buildings, as
presented, is not altered. Staff advised that a site plan detailing the
proposal is required, and future changes will require further review by the
Town.
There were no comments from
the audience with respect to this application.
Moved by: Councillor A. Chiu
Seconded by: Councillor J.
Virgilio
That the Record of the Public
Meeting held on April 19, 2005, with respect to “StorageNow Holdings Inc.
Applications for Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Approval
to permit a commercial self storage warehouse in an existing building at 605 Alden Road, Southwest corner of Alden Road and Warden Avenue”, be received;
And that the Official Plan
Amendment application (OP 05 009083) submitted by StorageNow Holdings Inc. to
permit a commercial self storage warehouse in an existing building at 605 Alden
Road, be approved and the draft Official Plan amendment be finalized and
adopted;
And that the Zoning By-law
Amendment application (ZA 05 009089) to amend By-law 108-81, as amended,
submitted by StorageNow Holdings Inc. to permit a commercial self storage
warehouse in an existing building at 605 Alden Road, be approved and the draft
Zoning By-law amendment be enacted without further notice following
review of the parking study.
CARRIED
12. BETHANY LODGE, 23 SECOND STREET SOUTH
ZONING AMENDMENT TO PERMIT
RECONSTRUCTION
OF THE LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY
(ZA 05 007178) (10.5)
The Chair advised that the
subject of the Public Meeting this date was to consider the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05 007178)
submitted by Bethany Lodge to permit reconstruction of the long-term care
facility at 23 Second Street South.
Committee was advised that 189
notices were mailed on March 30, 2005, and a Public Meeting sign was
posted on March 29, 2005. There were no written submissions
received.
Staff gave a presentation
regarding the proposal, the location, surrounding uses, and outstanding issues.
Site plan and built form details are to be refined, and parking allocation is
to be determined. A severance application will also be required. Committee
discussed landscaping and tree preservation. It was suggested that some
improvement could be made to the building design so that the structures appear
more like residences.
Sebastian Spataro of
Montgomery Sisam Architects, representing the applicant, advised that the
sloped land impacts the design and appearance. Mr. Spataro explained that the
existing building is being demolished and rebuilt in order to meet standards
required by the Ministry of Health. Residents will be accommodated at another
location during construction, approximately 16 months.
Stanley Darnell, 28 Christman Court, stated that Bethany Lodge has been
a good neighbour, and he supports the proposal.
Stephen Heidman, 17 Ross Garden Crescent, spoke in support of the proposal.
David Day, 113-34 Swansea Road, spoke in support of the proposal.
Susan Taylor, 3 Colonel Butler Drive, a staff member at Bethany Lodge,
spoke in support of the proposal.
Mildred Burrows, 23 Second Street, a resident of Bethany Lodge, spoke
in support of the proposal.
The Ward Councillor advised
that the local residents group has no objection, and it was noted that no
objections have been expressed by neighbours. Committee hoped that the project
could be expedited and that the disruption to the residents is minimized.
Moved by: Councillor J.
Virgilio
Seconded by: Deputy Mayor F.
Scarpitti
That the deputations by
Sebastian Spataro of Montgomery Sisam Architects, representing the applicant,
Stanley Darnell, Stephen Heidman, David Day, Susan Taylor, and Mildred
Burrows in support of the proposed
Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05 007178) submitted by Bethany Lodge for 23
Second Street South, be received;
And that the Development Services
Commission staff report dated March 22, 2005, entitled “Preliminary Report,
Bethany Lodge at 23 Second Street South, Zoning Amendment application to permit
the reconstruction of the long-term care facility, Concession 6, Part Lot 10,
File Number ZA 05 007178” be received;
And that the Record of the
Public Meeting held on April 19, 2005, with respect to the proposed
amendment to By-law 122-72 be received;
And that the application by
Bethany Lodge to amend By-law 122-72 be approved;
And further that the proposed
amendments be enacted without further notice.
CARRIED
13. CANADIAN NATIONAL RAILWAY COMPANY
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MARKHAM
ROAD AND 14TH AVENUE
REZONING APPLICATION TO PERMIT
COMMERCIAL
DEVELOPMENT (ZA 05 006909)
(10.5)
The Chair advised that the
subject of the Public Meeting this date was to consider the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05 006909)
submitted by Canadian National Railway Company to permit commercial development
at the southwest corner of Markham Road and 14th Avenue.
Committee was advised that 22
notices were mailed on March 30, 2005, and a Public Meeting sign was
posted on March 23, 2005. There were no written submissions
received.
Staff gave a presentation
regarding the proposal, the location, surrounding uses, and outstanding issues.
Chris Rombis, 7750 Markham Road, adjacent land owner to the south,
referred to the efforts of the ratepayers group, and the Town, to have the
graffiti on the railway bridge cleaned up. Mr. Rombis also requested the
sidewalk along his property be provided soon, in order to avoid damage.
Staff advised that the Town
has no control with CN over graffiti, however, the developer of the subject
property has indicated a willingness to contribute to the clean-up. Staff
agreed to look into the possibility of up-fronting the sidewalk, and will
e-mail Committee members regarding an
anticipated time frame for installation, after consulting with Engineering
staff.
Andrew Jeanrie of Fraser
Milner Casgrain, representing Canadian National Railway Company, advised that
he is not connected with the Operations Branch, but it is his understanding
that CN allocates money for maintaining the safety of the structures, not for
painting. He confirmed that the builder
of the proposed plaza has offered to pay for the bridge to be painted by CN.
Committee expressed concern
that CN does not have any community pride and is not willing to spend money for
the clean up. It was noted that Communities In Bloom had contacted CN to paint
the structures and had received no cooperation. Members referred to frequent
complaints from the residents, and noted additional concerns for maintenance of
weeds and right-of-ways, as well as health issues caused by standing water and
the danger of West Nile Disease on railway lands. Staff was asked to report
back, as soon as possible, on addressing the issue of CN bridges across the
Town of Markham.
It was suggested that this
application be referred to staff for a report in order to provide the applicant
with time to consider the benefits of cooperation, however the Committee did
not wish to penalize the developer. Committee considered enlisting the Legal
and By-law Enforcement Departments to enforce Property Standards on CN lands.
If possible, a high-level meeting should be arranged with CN to try to resolve
issues, once the staff report is received. A letter to the Railway Safety
Transport Board suggesting the condition of the bridge is a distraction to
traffic and is a safety hazard, may get a response from CN.
Mr. Jeanrie was asked to
convey the Town’s dismay at the lack of community pride and cooperation, to
Canadian National Railway Company.
Moved by: Regional Councillor
J. Heath
Seconded by: Councillor E.
Shapero
That the deputation by Chris
Rombis, with concerns, regarding the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA
05 006909) submitted by Canadian National Railway Company to permit commercial
development at the southwest corner of Markham Road and 14th Avenue,
be received;
And that the deputation by Andrew
Jeanrie of Fraser Milner Casgrain, representing Canadian National Railway
Company, regarding the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05 006909), be
received;
And that the Record of the
Public Meeting held on April 19, 2005, with respect to “Canadian National
Railway Company Rezoning application for a strip of land near the southwest
corner of Markham Road and 14th Avenue to permit commercial development”,
be received;
And that the application to
amend Zoning By-law 108-81, as amended, be enacted without further notice following the resolution of bridge matters;
And that the appropriate staff
report back as soon as possible on the issue of improving CN bridges in Markham.
CARRIED
14. NEAMSBY INVESTMENTS INC., WEST SIDE OF
MARKHAM ROAD,
NORTH OF STEELES AVENUE,
REZONING TO PLACE A HOLD
ON THE ZONING OF LANDS (ZA 05
007543) (10.5)
The Chair advised that the
subject of the Public Meeting this date was to consider the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05 007543)
submitted by Neamsby Investments Inc., to place a Hold on the lands at the west
side of Markham Road, north of Steeles Avenue.
Committee was advised that 129
notices were mailed on March 30, 2005, and a Public Meeting sign was
posted on March 28, 2005. There were no written submissions received.
Staff gave a presentation
regarding the proposal, the location, and the surrounding uses. The proposal is
to place a Hold on the current zoning of the lands pending the availability of
additional servicing allocation. The Ward Councillor agreed to work with staff
to provide further notification to the public regarding the proposed site plan.
Jebsen Ho, 20 Marydale Avenue, advised that he bought his house
in this area in 1997, with the expectation that it would be a reasonably quiet
area and he objects to any increased density. The Chair clarified that the
development has been approved for 15 years, and the subject of this application
is to deal with the servicing allocation. Mr. Ho asked that his concerns be
noted for any future proposals by the developer.
Randa Issa, 58 Maryvale Avenue, requested that future notices
contain clearer explanations, as there has been a lot of confusion over this
proposal. The Chair requested staff to review the notice information.
Moved by: Councillor K. Usman
Seconded by: Councillor A.
Chiu
That the deputations by Jebsen
Ho and Randa Issa, with concerns regarding the proposed Zoning By-law amendment
(File ZA 05 007543) submitted by Neamsby Investments Inc., to place a Hold on
the zoning of the lands on the west side of Markham Road, north of Steeles
Avenue, be received;
And that the Development
Services Commission report dated February 15, 2005, entitled “Preliminary
Report, Remington Group, rezoning application to place a Hold on the zoning of
the lands on the west side of Markham Road, north of Steeles Avenue (ZA 05
007543)” be received;
And that the Record of the
Public Meeting held on April 19, 2005, with respect to the proposed amendments
to By-law 90-81, as amended, be received;
And that the application by
Remington Group to amend By-law 90-81, as amended, be approved;
And further that the proposed
amendment to By-law 90-81, as amended, be enacted without further notice.
CARRIED
15. FOREST BAY HOMES LTD., EAST OF MARKHAM
ROAD,
NORTH OF STEELES AVE., VILLAGES
OF FAIRTREE SUBDIVISION
REZONING TO PLACE A HOLD ON
THE ZONING OF LANDS
(ZA 05 006401) (10.5)
The Chair advised that the
subject of the Public Meeting this date was to consider the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05 006401)
submitted by Forest Bay Homes Ltd. to place a Hold on the zoning of the lands
within the Village of Fairtree.
Committee was advised that 275
notices were mailed on March 30, 2005, and a Public Meeting sign was
posted on March 28, 2005. There were no written submissions
received.
Staff gave a presentation
regarding the proposal, the location, and the surrounding uses. The proposal is
to place a Hold on the current zoning of the lands pending the availability of
additional servicing allocation.
Randa Issa, 58 Maryvale Avenue, requested that future notices
contain clearer explanations, as there has been a lot of confusion over this
proposal. The Chair requested staff to review the notice information.
Moved by: Councillor K. Usman
Seconded by: Councillor A.
Chiu
That the deputation by Randa
Issa, with concerns regarding the proposed Zoning By-law amendment (File ZA 05
006401) submitted by Forest Bay Homes Ltd. to place a Hold on the zoning of the
lands within the Village of Fairtree, be received;
And that the Development
Services Commission report dated February 15, 2005, entitled “Preliminary
Report, Forest Bay Homes Ltd., Rezoning application to place a Hold on the
zoning of certain lands within the Villages of Fairtree subdivision east of
Markham Road, north of Steeles Avenue (ZA 05 006401)” be received;
And that the Record of the
Public Meeting held on April 19, 2005, with respect to the proposed amendments
to By-law 90-81, as amended, be received;
And that the application by
Forest Bay Homes Ltd, to amend By-law 90-81, as amended, be approved;
And further that the proposed
amendment to By-law 90-81, as amended, be enacted without further notice.
CARRIED
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other
matters considered by Development Services Committee on April 19, 2005:
16. CORNELL
CENTRE (10.0)
Staff provided an update on the development of Cornell
Centre. The Draft Provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe calls
for intensification and efficient use of land. Cornell Centre is considered a key
development area in the Highway 7 Regional Corridor, within the context of the
Region’s Centres and Corridors Strategy.
The Cornell Secondary Plan review is an opportunity to
identify policies for compact, mixed use development at transit-supportive
densities within Cornell Centre. Staff outlined the emerging principles that
will achieve these objectives. The next steps will be to continue to develop
the Secondary Plan, then meet with the landowner groups, finalize the Plan for
presentation to Development Services Committee, and then proceed to a Public Meeting.
Committee made several suggestions relating to
extending the pedestrian walkways for weather protection, linking green areas,
the connection of Rose Way
to the By-pass, and commercial uses at the 9th Line. With respect to
potential retail uses, staff advised that discussions for short and long-term
proposals are at the preliminary stage, and staff agreed to provide feedback.
Staff advised that densities are sufficient to support underground or
structured parking.
It was suggested that community meetings be held at
earlier stages, and that notice be extended to Wooten
Way and south of Highway 7. The Ward Councillor
offered to help organize the community meetings.
Moved by: Councillor J. Webster
Seconded by: Councillor J. Virgilio
That the staff presentation regarding Cornell Centre
be received.
CARRIED
17. INNOVATIONS
SYNERGY CENTRE IN MARKHAM (ISCM)
FINANCIAL REPORT (10.16)
Bob Glandfield, President, Innovations Synergy Centre
in Markham, made a
presentation regarding the ISCM
Financial Report. Mr. Glandfield reviewed the cost efficiency of ISCM,
described the synergy dynamic, provided a list of participating organizations,
and gave a financial overview. He discussed renewal of the lease of the Markham
Small Business Centre, and recommended an increase in the lease space.
Mr. Glandfield indicated that the organization is far
ahead of where they anticipated they would be, in building credibility and
partnerships, and becoming a recognized source of help in the GTA. Australia
and the U.K.
are following in Markham’s steps.
Mr. Glandfield congratulated Council on its leadership in establishing the
ISCM.
Committee expressed appreciation for the success and
partnerships achieved by ISCM, and for the efforts and professionalism of
staff.
It was requested that future reports include a breakdown
of man-hours for each company assisted.
Moved by: Mayor D. Cousens
Seconded by: Regional Councillor B. O’Donnell
That the presentation by Bob Glandfield, President, Innovations
Synergy Centre in Markham
regarding the ISCM Financial Report, be received;
And that appreciation be expressed to Mr. Bob Glandfield
and the ISCM Board, and on behalf of the ISCM Board, to Steven Chait and staff.
CARRIED
18. UNIONVILLE
PLAYGROUND (6.3)
Staff advised that as directed by Committee on April 5, 2005, this update is provided
to further review options for the Unionville Playground within the Fred Varley Parkette.
The community is divided between the east site and west site options, and staff
has proposed an alternate option of a Master Plan and naturalized maze concept.
The community will be consulted once the Committee indicates a preferred
option.
Committee considered the costs to be excessive,
particularly for the Master Plan and maze concept. Staff advised that the maze
is a sample idea for a non-traditional innovative park, and that the east and
west options will still require some additional funding in order to meet CSA
standards. Staff offered to continue working with the community to help solve
this problem. Discussion included phasing, and whether alternate park sites
should be considered.
Several motions were made and lost regarding options,
funding, and referring this matter to the Unionville Subcommittee.
Moved by: Councillor E. Shapero
Seconded by: Councillor J. Virgilio
That the staff presentation regarding the Unionville
Playground be received;
And that the Unionville Playground be referred
back to staff, to consult with the community to explore all three options, and
fundraising over the amount currently budgeted, and report back to Development
Services in approximately 1 month.
CARRIED
19. MARKHAM
PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE MINUTES
- March 21, 2005
(16.34) Minutes
Moved by: Councillor A. Chiu
Seconded by: Councillor S. Daurio
That the minutes of the Markham Public Art Advisory
Committee meeting held March
21, 2005, be received for information.
CARRIED
20. REPORT ON INCOMING PLANNING APPLICATIONS
FOR THE PERIOD OF MARCH
11, 2005 TO MARCH 23, 2005 (10.0) Report
Committee requested that the Lynzey Inn at 159A Main Street Unionville
be bumped-up to Committee approval level, and that a presentation be made to the
Committee regarding the IBM parking deck at 3600
Steeles Avenue East.
Moved by: Regional Councillor J. Heath
Seconded by: Councillor E. Shapero
That
Committee receive the report entitled “Report on Incoming Planning Applications
for the period of March
11, 2005 to March 23, 2005” and direct
staff to process the applications in accordance with the route outlined in the
report, with the exception that the Lynzey Inn at 159A
Main Street, Unionville, be bumped up to Committee approval level.
CARRIED
21. DELEGATED APPROVALS UNDER
BY-LAW 2002-202
(DM 2001-03) (10.6) Report
Moved by: Councillor A. Chiu
Seconded by: Councillor S. Daurio
That
Council be advised that in accordance with Delegation By-law 2002-202, and
additional site specific delegations authorized by Development Services
Committee, the Commissioner of Development Services or the Director of Planning and
Urban Design have
approved applications listed in the report dated April 19, 2005.
CARRIED
COMMUNICATIONS
22. YORK REGION, COUNCIL RESOLUTION, MARCH
31, 2005
IMPLEMENTING ROPA 43 (13.4)
Moved by:
Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded
by: Councillor A. Chiu
That the
correspondence dated April 1, 2005, regarding the York Region Council
Resolution on March 31, 2005, adopting the Planning and Economic Development
Committee report “Implementing ROPA 43 – transit Oriented Development (TOD)
Guidelines and Next Steps” be received.
CARRIED
23. YORK REGION, COUNCIL RESOLUTION, MARCH
31, 2005
THE GROWTH OUTLOOK FOR THE
GREATER GOLDEN
HORSESHOE REPORT (13.4)
Moved by:
Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded
by: Councillor A. Chiu
That the
correspondence dated April 1, 2005, regarding the York Region Council
Resolution on March 31, 2005, adopting the Planning and Economic Development
Committee recommendation regarding the “The Growth Outlook for the Greater
Golden Horseshoe Report” be received.
CARRIED
24. STEVEN A. ZAKEM, AIRD & BERLIS
REPRESENTING LOBLAW PROPERTIES
LIMITED
APPEAL OF OFFICIAL PLAN
AMENDMENT NO. 132 (10.3)
Moved by:
Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded
by: Councillor A. Chiu
That the
correspondence dated April 6, 2005, from Steven A. Zakem of Aird & Berlis,
representing Loblaw Properties Limited, submitting an appeal of Official Plan
Amendment No. 132 to the Ontario Municipal Board, be received.
CARRIED
25. ABEYANCE LIST - TO APRIL 5, 2005 (10.0)
Moved by:
Councillor D. Horchik
Seconded
by: Councillor A. Chiu
That the
Development Services Committee Abeyance List, updated to April 5, 2005, be received for information.
CARRIED
PART C
Public Meeting
7:00 p.m. - Council Chamber
Attendance
|
Councillor
A. Chiu (Left – 8:30)
|
D. Clark, Town Architect
B. Karumanchery, Senior Project
Coordinator
R. Kendall, Senior Project
Coordinator
D. Miller, Senior Planner
V. Shuttleworth, Director of
Planning and Urban Design
N. Surti, Planner
M. Wouters, Senior Planner
K. Bavington, Committee Clerk
|
The Development Services Committee convened at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber with Councillor
G. McKelvey in the Chair.
26. MARKHAM SUITES HOTEL LTD. (HILTON
SUITES HOTEL)
8500 WARDEN AVENUE, AT HIGHWAY
7
ZONING BY-LAW AND PARKING
BY-LAW AMENDMENTS
(ZA 05 005737) (10.5, 2.17)
The Chair advised that the
subject of the Public Meeting this date was to consider the proposed Zoning By-law and Parking By-law amendments
(File ZA 05 005737) submitted by Markham Suites Hotel (Hilton Suites Hotel), to
permit paid parking in conjunction with the hotel operation at 8500 Warden Avenue.
Committee was advised that 74
notices were mailed on March 30, 2005, and a Public Meeting sign was
posted on March 30, 2005. Committee received two written
submissions from:
1.
Herman Grad of Hilton Suites Hotel, 8500 Warden Avenue, submitting information
2.
Tara Clayton of York Region, advising of no objection
Staff gave a presentation
regarding the proposal to implement a paid parking programme. The applicant and
staff are working to finalize the details and operation of the programme.
Ticketing and other strategies will be compatible with current parking policies
of the Town. A final report addressing the comments and details will be
provided to the Committee.
Committee questioned the
possibility of patrons parking at alternate locations to avoid paid parking and
suggested parking restrictions be placed on Town Centre Boulevard and surrounding streets. Staff have
notified surrounding property owners and discussed this proposal.
Discussions included revenue
sharing, processing costs, and enforcement. Committee considered problems
associated with estimating the time needed for parking, and requested different
methods of payment be investigated.
Herman Grad, representing the
applicant, Hilton Suites Hotel, was in attendance to answer questions. He
commented on some of the parking problems they are currently experiencing.
There were no comments from
the audience with respect to this application.
Moved by: Councillor K. Usman
Seconded by: Councillor J.
Virgilio
That the written submission
from Herman Grad of Hilton Suites Hotel, and from Tara Clayton of York Region,
with information and comments regarding the proposed Zoning By-law and Parking
By-law amendments (File ZA 05 005737) submitted by Markham Suites Hotel (Hilton
Suites Hotel), at 8500 Warden Avenue, be
received;
And that the Record of the
Public Meeting held on April 19, 2005, with respect to the proposed
amendment to the Town’s Parking By-law (By-law 28-97) be received;
And further that the
application be referred back to staff for a formal report and recommendations.
CARRIED
ADJOURNMENT
The Development Services Committee meeting adjourned at the hour of 8:55
p.m.