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Development Services Committee Minutes

May 19, 2015, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Council Chamber

Meeting No. 11

All Members of Council

Development Services                                               Economic Development

Chair:                      Regional Councillor Jim Jones                                Chair:                      Councillor Alex Chiu

Vice-Chair:              Councillor Don Hamilton                                       Vice-Chair:              Councillor Alan Ho

 

Transportation Issues

Chair:                      Regional Councillor Joe Li

Vice-Chair:              Regional Councillor Nirmala Armstrong

 

 

Attendance

Mayor Frank Scarpitti

Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Regional Councillor Jim Jones

Regional Councillor Joe Li

Regional Councillor Nirmala Armstrong

Councillor Valerie Burke

Councillor Alan Ho

Councillor Don Hamilton

Councillor Karen Rea

Councillor Colin Campbell

Councillor Amanda Collucci

Councillor Logan Kanapathi

 

Regrets:

Councillor Alex Chiu

Andy Taylor, Chief Administrative Officer

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services

Trinela Cane, Commissioner of Corporate Services

Ronji Borooah, City Architect

Alan Brown, Director of Engineering

Catherine Conrad, City Solicitor

Lilli Duoba, Manager, Natural Heritage

Scott Heaslip, Senior Project Coordinator

Anna Henriques, Senior Planner, Zoning and Special             Projects

Biju Karumanchery, Acting Director of Planning and             Urban Design

Bill Snowball, Fire Chief

Tom Villella, Manager, Zoning and Special Projects

Sharon Williams, Director of Human Resources

Marg Wouters, Senior Manager, Policy and Research

Kitty Bavington, Council/Committee Coordinator

 

 

The Development Services Committee convened at the hour of 9:05 AM in the Council Chamber with Regional Councillor Jim Jones in the Chair.  

 

The Committee recessed between 12:10 and 1:08 PM; between 2:45 to 4:35 PM; and between 7:28 to 7:29 PM.

 

 

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest - None declared

 

 

 

 

 

1.         PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARDS (12.2.6)

 

City of Markham Staff:

 

Penner, Robert, Asset Management, Manager, Utilities, Survey & Assets Database, 20 years

Hanlon, Derek, Building Standards, Building Inspector II, 20 years

Tafesse, Dereje, Engineering, Capital Works Engineer, 20 years

Beaumont, Christopher, Fire & Emergency Services, 1st Class Firefighter, 20 years

Clarry, Janet, Fire & Emergency Services, Alarm Room Operator, 20 years

Dyson, Jacqueline, Fire & Emergency Services, Fire Prevention Officer, 20 years

Leslie, David, Fire & Emergency Services, 1st Class Firefighter, 20 years

Stoneman, Donald, Fire & Emergency Services, 1st Class Firefighter, 20 years

Drimmel, Doreen, Human Resources, Human Resources Consultant, 20 years

Wimmer, Elizabeth, Planning & Urban Design, Senior Planner, 20 years

Cufre, Pablo, Recreation Services, Maintenance Assistant, 20 years

Girard, Emma, Corporate Communications & Community Engagement, Production &   Advertising Coordinator, 15 years

Attai, Stella, Financial Services, Financial Analyst, Accounting, 15 years

Visser, Mark, Financial Services, Senior Manager, Financial Strategy & Investments, 15 years

Mungy, Michael, Fire & Emergency Services, 1st Class Firefighter, 15 years

Reeves, Deborah, Fire & Emergency Services, Administrative Assistant, Fire Services, 15 years

Williams, Sharon, Human Resources, Director, Human Resources, 15 years

Lai, Vincent, Information Technology Services, Senior Systems Analyst, 15 years

Canton-Yuen, Linda, Legislative Services, Provincial Offences Officer I, 15 years

McWhinnie, Jill, Legislative Services, Senior By-law Enforcement & Licensing Clerk, 15 years

Bingham, James, Operations, Supervisor, 15 years

Fockler, Sheila, Operations, Parks Labourer/Driver, 15 years

Leadbetter, Mark, Operations, Facility Yard Maintenance, 15 years

Lombardi, Anthony, Operations, Truck Driver, 15 years

McGilvray, Steve, Operations, Operations Working Supervisor, 15 years

Prior, Michael, Operations, Working Supervisor, 15 years

Day, Geoff, Planning & Urban Design, Senior Planner Buttonville Development, 15 years

Jeffery, Catherine, Planning & Urban Design, Landscape Inspector, 15 years

Beck, Kevin, Recreation Services, Facility Operator III, 15 years

Butler, Justin, Recreation Services, Facility Operator I, 15 years

Hansen, Anni, Recreation Services, Customer Service Representative, 15 years

Singleton, Paul, Recreation Services, Recreation Supervisor, Facilities, Thornhill C.C., 15 years

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.         ADDRESSING GROWTH TO 2041
            ANALYZING AND REFINING DRAFT GROWTH SCENARIOS (10.0)

            Presentation

 

This presentation relates to agenda # 15, the staff report entitled “York Region Draft Growth Scenarios to 2041- Regional Municipal Comprehensive Review”.

 

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services introduced this matter and the presenter.

 

Valerie Shuttleworth, Chief Planner of the Region of York gave a presentation entitled "Addressing Growth to 2041 Analyzing and Refining Draft Growth Scenarios” Steven Collins and Stephen Funnel of the Region of York were also in attendance.

 

The presentation outlined the Municipal Comprehensive Review and Master Planning process for integrated land use, infrastructure and financial planning. A review of the Transportation Master Plan and the Water and Wastewater Master Plan are part of the process.

 

The Phase 1 Consultation process and key results were reviewed. The Regional Official Plan update addresses growth to 2041, and the forecast indicates growth is in line with historical growth rates. The employment forecast reflects a shift to major office and population-related employment.

 

Three draft growth scenarios were developed: 40% intensification; 50 % intensification; and no urban expansion:

 

Draft Population Forecast Scenarios for 2041:

Municipality

Dec. 2014 Pop. Estimate

ROP 2010 (2031)

40% Intensification

50% Intensification

No Urban Expansion

Markham

342,000

421,600

541,800

541,900

536,600

 

Draft Employment Forecast Scenarios for 2041:

Municipality

2014 Emply. Estimate

ROP 2010 (2031)

40% Intensification

50% Intensification

No Urban Expansion

Markham

170,000

240,400

275,700

275,600

274,800

 

The 40% and 50% scenarios would require urban expansion into the Whitebelt lands. The options are undergoing further analysis by York Region staff and are out for comment by local municipalities and the public. Phase 2 of the project will define the preferred growth scenario, and a policy direction targeted to be before Council in November, 2015.

 

The Committee and the presenters discussed:

-            recent announcements by the Province regarding light rail initiatives in York Region and the impacts on municipalities;

-            lack of public transportation and employment opportunities in the Whitebelt;

-            key results from Transportation Management Plan consultation and accuracy of forecasting modal splits for new developments;

-            traffic congestion and reducing travel times may not be managed by expanding the urban boundaries – higher density is needed in urban corridors to support public transit;

-            implementing congestion fees or tolls for cars;

-            transit investments and improvements, focusing growth at transit corridors and nodes;

-            housing units by land area category with respect to projected densities and possible expansion into the Whitebelt lands;

-            immigration rates as part of the growth forecast;

-            second suites are included in the housing base;

-            consequences for not meeting the growth forecast;

-            the current land inventory and capacity to accommodate growth;

-            the actual population and employment growth were close to the forecasts;

-            the timing between the previous and current Urban Boundary, Transportation Master Plan and Water and Wastewater Master Plan reviews;

-            collaborating with the City of Toronto to find innovative transportation solutions, as well as water supply and infrastructure solutions;

-            the need to protect agricultural lands and green space;

 

The Committee directed that a workshop be held on this matter for more fulsome discussions.

 

Moved by: Mayor Frank Scarpitti

Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

 

1)      That the presentation provided by Valerie Shuttleworth, Chief Planner of the Region of York entitled "Addressing Growth to 2041 Analyzing and Refining Draft Growth Scenarios", be received and referred to staff for analysis; and

 

2)      That a workshop be held on this matter at the appropriate time.

CARRIED

 

 

 

3.         NEW COMPREHENSIVE ZONING BY-LAW PROJECT (10.5)

            Presentation

 

This presentation relates to agenda # 14, the staff report entitled “Update on Markham’s New Comprehensive Zoning By-Law Project, PR 13 128340”.

 

Anna Henriques, Senior Planner, Zoning and Special Projects, gave a brief introduction to the New Comprehensive Zoning By-law project, advising that municipalities are required to review and update their zoning by-laws to conform with the new Official Plan. The purpose of the project is to: implement the Official Plan; review, consolidate, streamline & update zoning by-laws into one comprehensive zoning by-law; and, to develop innovative, user-friendly and web-based zoning by-laws.

 

John Gladki, Gladki Consulting Inc. gave a presentation entitled "New Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project". This presentation is the second in a series, and provided details on the current topics of discussion:

-         Site Specific Zoning Amendments

-         Zoning By-law Definitions

-         Automotive Uses

-         Drive Through Facilities

-         Residential Accessory Buildings/Structures and Outdoor Amenity Space

-         Places of Worship

-         Floodplains, Hazard Lands, Special Policy Areas and Greenway System

 

The next steps include a further presentation to Development Services Committee in September, followed by public open house and stakeholder meetings and an analysis report to DSC in October, with the final draft issues paper anticipated to be presented in January 2016.

 

The Committee discussed the public outreach and communication program. The Committee requested that public input be provided to the Committee and suggested that a workshop be held on this matter at the appropriate time.

 

Moved by: Regional Councillor Joe Li

Seconded by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

 

That the presentation provided by John Gladki, Gladki Consulting Inc. entitled "New Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project", be received.

CARRIED

 

 

4.         CHURCH STREET IMPROVEMENTS
            (NINTH LINE TO BUR OAK AVENUE)
            PROJECT UPDATE (5.10)

            Presentation

 

Moved by: Councillor Don Hamilton

Seconded by: Councillor Valerie Burke

 

That the May 19, 2015 presentation entitled “Church Street Improvements (Ninth Line to Bur Oak Avenue) Project Update” be deferred to the Development Services Committee meeting on June 2, 2015.

CARRIED

 

 

 

 

 

5.         HIGHWAY 7
            TOWN CENTRE BLVD. TO SCIBERRAS ROAD
            HYDRO UNDERGROUNDING (5.10)

            Presentation

 

Moved by: Councillor Don Hamilton

Seconded by: Councillor Valerie Burke

 

That the May 19, 2015 presentation entitled “Highway 7, Town Centre Blvd. to Sciberras Road Hydro Undergrounding,” be deferred to the Development Services Committee meeting on June 2, 2015.

CARRIED

 

 

6.         DEVELOPMENT SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
- May 5, 2015 (10.0)

            Minutes

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

That the minutes of the Development Services Committee meeting held May 5, 2015, be confirmed.

CARRIED

 

 

7.         DEVELOPMENT SERVICES PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES
- May 5, 2015 (10.0)

            Minutes

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

That the minutes of the Development Services Public Meeting held May 5, 2015, be confirmed.

 

CARRIED

 


 

 

8.         HERITAGE MARKHAM COMMITTEE MINUTES
            - May 6, 2015 (16.11)

            Minutes

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

That the minutes of the Heritage Markham Committee meeting held May 6, 2015, be received for information purposes.

CARRIED

 

 

 

9.         PRELIMINARY REPORT
            JKO PLANNING SERVICES INC.
            OFFICIAL PLAN & ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT
            APPLICATIONS TO PERMIT 7 TOWNHOUSE UNITS
            AT 2968 ELGIN MILLS ROAD EAST
            FILE NOS. OP 14 109571 & ZA 14 109571 (10.3, 10.5)

            Report

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

1)         That the report titled “Preliminary Report, JKO Planning Services Inc., Official Plan & Zoning Amendment Applications to permit 7 townhouse units at 2968 Elgin Mills Road East, File Nos. OP 14 109571 & ZA 12 109571” dated May 19, 2015, be received; and,

 

2)         That a Public Meeting be held to consider the Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications to permit 7 townhouse units on the subject lands; and further,

 

3)         That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 


 

10.       PRELIMINARY REPORT
            TIMES GROUP CORPORATION
            SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 7, EAST OF BAYVIEW AVENUE
            BLOCKS 45, 46 AND PART OF BLOCK 49,
            PLAN 65M-3226 AND BLOCK 3, PLAN 65M-3575
            OFFICIAL PLAN AND ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT
            APPLICATIONS TO PERMIT A COMMERCIAL/RETAIL DEVELOPMENT
            AND A RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
            FILE NO.’S: OP 13 131100 AND ZA 14 131100 (10.3, 10.5)

            Report

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

1)         That the Staff report dated May 19, 2015 entitled “PRELIMINARY REPORT, Times Group Corporation, South of Highway 7, east of Bayview Avenue, Blocks 45, 46 and Part of Block 49, Plan 65M-3226 and Block 3, Plan 65M-3575, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications to permit a commercial/retail development and a residential development, File No.’s: OP 13 131100 and ZA 14 131100” be received; and,

 

2)         That a Public Meeting be held to consider the applications submitted by Times Group Corporation as they relate to the proposed commercial/retail development on Block 46, Plan 65M-3226; and further,

 

3)         That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the above recommendation.

CARRIED

 

 

11.       REPORT ON INCOMING PLANNING APPLICATIONS
            FOR THE PERIOD OF MARCH 14, 2015 TO APRIL 17, 2015 (10.0)

            Report

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

1)         That Committee receive the report entitled “Report on Incoming Planning Applications for the period of March 14, 2015 to April 17, 2015” and direct staff to process the applications in accordance with the approval route outlined in the report; and,

 

2)         That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 

 

12.       REQUEST FOR DEMOLITION
            - 10 ALBERT STREET, MARKHAM VILLAGE (16.11, 10.13)

            Report

 

The Committee consented to defer this matter to allow continued discussions between the applicant and a neighbour.

 

Moved by: Councillor Karen Rea

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

That the demolition of the non-heritage dwelling at 10 Albert Street located within the Markham Village Heritage Conservation District be deferred to the June 2, 2015 Development Services Committee meeting.

CARRIED

 

 

 

13.       PRELIMINARY REPORT
            HS NOUVEL DEVELOPMENTS INC.
            APPLICATION FOR ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT
            TO PERMIT A COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
            235 & 265 HOOD ROAD
            (NORTH OF GIBSON DRIVE ON THE WEST SIDE OF WARDEN AVENUE)
            FILE NO.  ZA 13 113475 (10.5)

            Report

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

1)         That the report titled “PRELIMINARY REPORT, HS Nouvel Developments Inc., Application for Zoning By-law Amendment to permit a commercial development at 235 & 265 Hood Road (north of Gibson Drive on the west side of Warden Avenue), File No. ZA 13 113475”, be received; and,

 

2)         That a Public Meeting be held to consider the application submitted by HS Nouvel Developments Inc. for Zoning By-law Amendment; and further,

 

3)         That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARIED


 

14.       INFORMATION REPORT
            UPDATE ON MARKHAM’S NEW COMPREHENSIVE
            ZONING BY-LAW PROJECT, PR 13 128340 (10.5)

            Report   Appendix A 

 

Note:   Appendices B - I available on-line only.

            Appendix ‘B’ - DRAFT Zoning By-law Amendments (Site Specifics) Paper (Task 4a)

            Appendix ‘C’ – DRAFT Definitions Paper (Task 5)

            Appendix ‘D’ – DRAFT Automotive Uses Paper (Task 7)

            Appendix ‘E’ – DRAFT Drive Through Facilities Paper (Task 8)

            Appendix ‘F’ – DRAFT Residential Accessory Structures & Amenity Space Paper

                                      (Task 10)

            Appendix ‘G’ – DRAFT Places of Worship Paper (Task 14)

            Appendix ‘H’ – DRAFT Hazardous Lands & Greenway System Paper (Task 15)

            Appendix I - Presentation

 

This presentation relates to agenda # 3, a presentation entitled "New Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project".

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

1)         That the report entitled, “INFORMATION REPORT: Update on Markham’s New Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project” dated May 19, 2015, and attached appendices (Appendix A: Project Schedule, Appendix B: Draft Zoning By-law Amendments Paper, Appendix C: Draft Definitions Paper, Appendix D: Draft Automotive Uses Paper, Appendix E: Draft Drive Through Facilities Paper, Appendix F: Draft Residential Accessory Structures & Amenity Space Paper, Appendix G: Draft Places of Worship Paper, Appendix H: Draft Hazardous Lands & Greenway System Paper and Appendix I: Presentation), be received.

CARRIED

 

 

15.       YORK REGION DRAFT GROWTH SCENARIOS TO 2041
            - REGIONAL MUNICIPAL COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW (10.0)

            Report  Appendix A  Appendix B  Appendix C  Appendix D  Appendix E

 

This item relates to agenda item # 2, the presentation entitles "Addressing Growth to 2041 Analyzing and Refining Draft Growth Scenarios”.

 

Moved by: Deputy Mayor Jack Heath

Seconded by: Councillor Colin Campbell

 

1)         That the report entitled “York Region Draft Growth Scenarios to 2041 - Regional Municipal Comprehensive Review” dated May 19, 2015 be received.

CARRIED

 

16.       APPLICANT PRESENTATION
            DEL RIDGE (MID-TOWN) INC. (GREENLIFE MIDTOWN)
            7768 KENNEDY ROAD
            (NORTH-WEST CORNER OF 14TH AVENUE AND KENNEDY ROAD)
            APPLICATION FOR SITE PLAN APPROVAL FOR A
            6-STOREY CONDOMINIUM APARTMENT BUILDING
            FILE NO. SC 14 110234 (10.6)

            Memo  Figure 1  Appendix A  Appendix B  Appendix C  Appendix D

 

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services gave a brief chronology of this application, and advised that the appeal of the Minor Variance approval to the Ontario Municipal Board  by the Hagerman Corner Community Homes Board has been withdrawn.

 

Dave deSylva of Del Ridge Homes displayed a model of the proposed condominium building. Mr. deSylva discussed the resolution of concerns with the neighbouring residents and the commitment of Del Ridge Homes to deliver an excellent development. The Committee discussed the amended site plan, access locations, the underground parking, the main entrance, and exterior colours.

 

Bridget Simon, resident of Hagerman Corner, spoke in opposition to the proposal, noting the proximity of the building to 14th Avenue and the impacts on the views from the existing building, and access concerns. Ms. Simon displayed photographs of the site to demonstrate impacts on the views.

 

Staff confirmed that all on-site driveways will be built to City standards, and confirmed that the site plan provided in the staff report is consistent with respect to building location, only the underground parking and ramp locations have changed.

 

The Committee requested that a commemorative plaque be installed on the site to acknowledge the context of this property in the historic Hagerman Corner community.

 

Moved by: Councillor Colin Campbell

Seconded by: Mayor Frank Scarpitti

 

1)         That the correspondence and deputation by Bridget Simon regarding the application by Del Ridge (Mid-town) Inc. (Greenlife Midtown), be received; and,

 

2)         That the staff memorandum dated May 19, 2015 titled “APPLICANT PRESENTATION, Del Ridge (Mid-town) Inc. (Greenlife Midtown), 7768 Kennedy Road (north-west corner of 14th Avenue and Kennedy Road), Application for site plan approval for a 6-storey condominium apartment building, File No. SC 14 110234”, be received; and,


 

3)                  That Development Services Committee endorse the application, in principle, based on the revised plans incorporating a separate parking garage entrance ramp and a second underground parking level, and delegate final approval to the Director of Planning and Urban Design to be issued when the conditions contained  in the February 3, 2015 staff report have been met; and,

 

4)         That the applicant provide a commemorative plaque on the site to acknowledge the context of this property in the historic Hagerman Corner community, in consultation with Heritage Section staff; and further,

 

5)         That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 

 

 

17.       APPLICANT PRESENTATION
            WYVIEW GROUP
            HIGHWAY 7/VILLAGE PARKWAY AREA
            APPLICATIONS FOR SITE PLAN APPROVAL
            FOR TWO RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS
            AND A TEMPORARY SALES OFFICE
            FILE NOS.: SC 15 134258, SC 15 134767 AND SC 15 149178 (10.6)

            Report

 

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services provided a brief overview of the three applications by Wyview Group.

 

Keith MacKinnon, KLM Planning Partners Inc. representing the Wyview Group, gave a presentation regarding the details of the applications. David Johnston, Architect representing the applicant provided details of the proposed temporary sales office. The sales office will comply with bird-friendly guidelines including any necessary refinements in discussions with City staff, and is intended to be on the site for approximately five years as it will serve multiple developments.

 

With respect to the condominium development, the Committee discussed the status of the nearby school and the visitor parking area, and requested further review and sample boards of building materials and downward lighting, as well as information regarding dwelling unit sizes. An update was provided regarding the traffic lights in front of Sheridan Nurseries.

 

It was noted that the urban design aspects of new developments along Highway 7 should be of a high quality, consistent with the quality and architectural character of recently approved plans. Applicants and their design teams will be held to a high standard, and only those projects meeting the established vision will be approved. 

 

Staff will meet with interested Committee members on items discussed.

 

Moved by: Mayor Frank Scarpitti

Seconded by: Councillor Don Hamilton

 

1)                  That the memorandum dated May 19, 2015 entitled “APPLICANT PRESENTATION, Wyview Group, Highway 7/Village Parkway area, Applications for site plan approval for two residential developments and a temporary sales office, File Nos.: SC 15 134258,  SC 15 134767 and SC 15 149178” be received; and,

 

2)                  That the presentations by representatives of the Wyview Group, be received; and,

 

3)                  That the applications be endorsed, in principle; and,

 

4)                  That final site plan approval for each of the proposed developments be delegated to the Director of Planning and Urban Design, or his designate, to be issued (Site Plan Approval is issued only when the Director or his designate has signed the site plan “approved”) when the following conditions have been met:

 

·       The Owner has entered into a site plan agreement with the City and the Region of York (where applicable) containing all standard and special provisions and requirements of the City and public agencies and the provisions outlined in Appendices ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’.  

·       The Trustees for the applicable cost sharing groups have advised the City in writing that the Owner is in good standing with the group; and,

 

5)                  That the Owner provide the City with the required payment of 60% planning processing fees in accordance with the City’s applicable Fee By-law; and,

 

6)                  That site plan endorsement shall lapse after a period of three (3) years from the date of endorsement in the event that the site plan agreement is not executed within that period; and further,

 

7)                  That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 


 

18.       RECOMMENDATION REPORT
            1820266 ONTARIO INC. (TIMES GROUP INC.)
            4002/4022 HIGHWAY 7 (NORTH-EAST CORNER OF HIGHWAY 7
            AND VILLAGE PARKWAY)
            APPLICATIONS FOR OFFICIAL PLAN AND ZONING BY-LAW
            AMENDMENTS TO PERMIT A TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT
            FILE NOS.: OP/ZA 14 117506 (10.3, 10.5)

            Report

 

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services described the proposal and the revisions resulting from consultation with the Unionville Subcommittee. Staff do not support down-zoning of the property based on established policy and urban design objectives. This position is consistent with that taken by Regional staff and Council.

 

Lincoln Lo, Malone Given Parsons Ltd. representing the applicant, gave a presentation on the proposal, and discussed revisions to the built form and recent comments from the Region regarding intensification and transit. Mr. Lo advised that the applicant has agreed to accommodate any lost density on other properties owned by the developer on the south side of Highway 7, and addressed concerns regarding lost Development Charge payments.

 

Ira Kagan, Kagan Shastri LLP, representing the applicant, discussed the previous Ontario Municipal Board appeals for this property, and density arguments.

 

The Committee discussed the impact on the City’s policies and overall development along the corridor. It was suggested that a fence and setback along the Highway 7 frontage, similar to the existing at Highway 7 and Verclaire Gate, would enhance the design. There was debate regarding appropriate density and built form in this area. The solicitor for the applicant agreed to review design improvements.

 

The Committee emphasized that approval of this application is not a precedent for other developments to reduce density, particularly on the south side of Highway 7.

 

Moved by: Councillor Don Hamilton 

Seconded by: Councillor Karen Rea

 

1)         That the staff report dated May 19, 2015, titled “RECOMMENDATION REPORT, 1820266 Ontario Inc. (Times Group Inc.), 4002/4022 Highway 7 (north-east corner of Highway 7 and Village Parkway), Applications for Official Plan and zoning by-law amendments to permit a townhouse development,” be received; and, 

 

2)         That Council approve applications by 1820266 Ontario Inc. (Times Group Inc.), 4002/4022 Highway 7 (north-east corner of Highway 7 and Village Parkway), Applications for Official Plan and zoning by-law amendments to permit a townhouse development; and,

 

3)         That staff bring forward required documents including revisions to the plan as discussed and a document to guarantee transfer of density to lands owned by the developer on the south side of Highway 7, and further,

 

4)         That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 

 

 

19.       RECOMMENDATION REPORT
            FRED LORUSSO
            PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE MINISTER’S ZONING ORDER,
            ONTARIO REGULATION 104/72 (AIRPORT FREEZE) TO
            PERMIT AN EXISTING BASEMENT REPAIR BUSINESS
            (CLARKE BASEMENT SYSTEMS) TO CONTINUE TO
            OPERATE AT 10638 9TH LINE
            FILE NO. PRE 14 130717 (10.0)

            Report

 

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services provided an explanation of the proposal to amend the Minister’s Zoning Order with respect to an existing business. The Ministry is the approval authority and the City is being asked to comment. It was clarified that the business has been operating illegally for 10 years, and that the proposal is for a temporary, three-year permission, with the Ministry referring to an option for renewal.

 

The Committee discussed Home Occupation provisions and requested additional information regarding the buildings on the property and if Building Permits were issued. Staff will provide an update once comments are received from the Building Department.

 

Don Clarke, business operator, was in attendance and responded to questions from the Committee. The Committee debated support for a renewal after three years, and considered that the current three year term should be considered a transition period to allow the business to relocate. Any request for extension should have to come back to Council.

 

Moved by: Councillor Colin Campbell

Seconded by: Regional Councillor Joe Li

 

1)         That the deputation by Don Clarke, business operator at 10638 9th Line, regarding the Minister's Zoning Order, be received; and,

 

2)         That the report dated May 19, 2015, titled “RECOMMENDATION REPORT, Fred Lorusso, Proposal to amend the Minister’s Zoning Order, Ontario Regulation 104/72 (Airport Freeze) to permit an existing basement repair business (Clarke Basement Systems) to continue to operate at 10638 9th Line, File No. PRE 14 130717”, be received; and,

 

3)         That the City of Markham inform the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing that it  supports the proposed amendment to the Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO), Ontario Regulation 104/72 (Airport Freeze) to permit an existing basement repair business at 10638 9th Line on a three year temporary use basis; and,

 

4)         That the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing be advised that the City of Markham considers the temporary use approval to be an opportunity for the business owner to transition the business to another location, and does not support an automatic renewal; and

 

5)         That this Recommendation Report be forwarded to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) and the Region of York; and further,

 

6)         That Staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 

 

 

20.       BILL 73 – SMART GROWTH FOR
            OUR COMMUNITIES ACT
            PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE
            DEVELOPMENT CHARGES ACT,
            1997 AND THE PLANNING ACT (10.0)

            Presentation   Report

 

            Appendix 3 - Full copy of Bill 73 available on-line only.

 

Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services introduced this matter and staff commented that there is a deadline of June 3, 2015 for comments to be provided to the province. The province has indicated they would accept comments from the Development Services Committee meeting scheduled for June 2, 2015, without Council endorsement.

 

Moved by: Councillor Amanda Collucci

Seconded by: Regional Councillor Nirmala Armstrong

 

That the report entitled “Bill 73 – Smart Growth For Our Communities Act, Proposed

Amendments to the Development Charges Act, 1997 and the Planning Act” be deferred to the

Development Services Committee meeting on June 2, 2015.

CARRIED


21.       PROVINCIAL CO-ORDINATED REVIEW
            OF THE GROWTH PLAN FOR THE
            GREATER GOLDEN HORSESHOE,
            THE GREENBELT PLAN,
            THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE CONSERVATION PLAN
            AND THE NIAGARA ESCARPMENT PLAN, 2015
            – CITY OF MARKHAM COMMENTS (10.0)

            Report

 

Marg Wouters, Senior Manager, Policy & Research, gave a presentation on the provincial co-ordinated review of the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the Greenbelt Plan, the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan, and the Niagara Escarpment Plan. These plans are required to be reviewed every 10 years.

 

The phasing of the project and the consultation program were reviewed. An overview of each of the provincial plans was provided, as well as the key recommendations and comments.

 

Ian Mathany, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, spoke on behalf of a landowner at the corner of Highway 404 and 19th Avenue. In 2010, the City endorsed removal of the subject lands from the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Greenbelt, and the exemption is being requested again. Staff confirmed that the exemption of the  lands at 2780 19th Avenue are included as requested, in Section 1.2 of the recommendations noted in the staff report. Committee members supported the request.

 

John Genest, Malone Given Parsons Ltd., provided a revised letter on behalf of Angus Glen, a letter on behalf of the Robinson Glen Block, and the Employment Block, with coloured maps attached to both letters. Mr. Genest requested support for the Province establishing a process for boundary adjustments to the Greenbelt through amendments to local and regional official plans based on science based analysis; use permissions for parkland and stormwater management ponds in the Greenbelt; and that the City consider carefully before recommending that  linkage corridors, such as that being considered in the Employment Block, be added to the Greenbelt. 

 

Catherine Lyons, Goodmans, representing Minotar, displayed a map of the subject lands and discussed the Greenbelt and Whitebelt Plans with respect to the changes to the designation by the Province on the subject lands in 2005.Ms. Lyons reviewed City documents concerning this issue and requested this matter be reconsidered as part of the Greenbelt Plan review. Staff clarified that the applicant is requesting amended wording to the City's previous position on this issue. Committee members spoke in support of the Minotar request.

 

Jane Muller, homeowner, spoke in support of preserving the Greenbelt Plan and the Oak Ridges Moraine, and discussed the impacts of development on the preservation of nature. Ms. Muller cited a specific concern with development activity near the Unionville GO Station impacting nesting birds.

 

Staff responded to the deputations, and the Committee considered the requests. Discussions include avenues for corrections, and land severances. It was suggested that the City should have regard for “Opportunities to Grow the Greenbelt”.

 

Further discussions, if required, were deferred to Council.

 

Moved by: Mayor Frank Scarpitti

Seconded by: Councillor Logan Kanapathi 

 

1)         That the deputations by Ian Mathany, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP; John Genest, Malone Given Parsons Ltd.; Catherine Lyons, Goodmans, representing Minotar; and Jane Muller regarding the Provincial co-ordinated review, be received; and,

 

2)         That the written submissions from John Genest, Malone Given Parsons, representing the North Markham Landowners Group, and Emily Grant of Malone Given Parsons, representing Angus Glen Landowners, regarding the Provincial co-ordinated review, be received; and,

 

3)         That the staff report entitled “Provincial Co-ordinated Review of the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the Greenbelt Plan, the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan and the Niagara Escarpment Plan, 2015 – City of Markham Comments” dated May 19, 2015 be received; and,

 

4)         That the Province consider the recommendations outlined in this report as Markham’s input into the provincial Co-ordinated Review process; and,

 

5)         That the City of Markham reaffirms its position as per Council resolution dated April 27, 2010 with respect to 2780 19th Avenue (recommendation 1.2); and with respect to certain lands in Greensborough, subject to the transition policies (recommendation 1.3); and,

 

6)         The City of Markham reaffirms that the Province is requested to address the request for a modified Natural Heritage System boundary for certain lands located north of Major Mackenzie Drive and west of McCowan Road (Minotaur lands) as adopted by Markham Council on December 10, 2013, and subsequently identified as Deferral 1 in York Region’s Notice of Decision of Markham’s 2014 Official Plan (recommendation 1.10). The Province is further advised that there is merit in giving consideration during the Provincial Greenbelt Plan review to the removal of table lands which were not included in the Draft Greenbelt Plan maps, but which were later included in the Final Greenbelt Plan maps in the Deferral 1 area; and,

 

7)         That this report be forwarded to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Regional Municipality of York; and further,

 

8)         That staff be authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to this resolution.

CARRIED

 

 

22.       YORK REGION WORKS YARD
            (350 RODICK ROAD) (10.0)

            Letter

 

Note:   As requested at the May 11, 2015 General Committee meeting, staff will provide information on whether York Region will be using 350 Rodick Road (former Constrada Aggregate Recycling Facility) as their Works Yard.

 

Moved by: Councillor Logan Kanapathi

Seconded by: Councillor Valerie Burke

 

That the York Region Works Yard be deferred to the Development Services Committee meeting on June 2, 2015.

CARRIED

 

 

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

The Development Services Committee meeting adjourned at 7:35 PM.

 

 

 

Alternate formats for this document are available upon request.

 

 

 

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