I know many in the neighbourhood have had concerns about how the former George Street school property will be developed, so I want to provide a clear update following last night’s Committee meeting.
At Committee, Council approved an amendment to reduce the number of lots from the originally proposed seven 60-foot lots down to a maximum of six lots.
With six lots, the frontage increases to approximately 70 feet, which is much more consistent with the character of the surrounding neighbourhood. Through many conversations with residents, I heard clearly that seven lots did not fit with the existing lot pattern — and I’m glad Council supported the amendment to address that concern. This change will be reflected when the proposal comes back to Council.
There have also been questions about what R3 zoning actually allows.
To clarify:
R3 zoning does NOT permit townhomes, stacked townhomes, or semi-detached homes.
R3 permits single detached homes only.
There was some confusion on this, so I want to emphasize it again: only single detached homes are permitted. After the amendment to increase the minimum frontage, the R3 zoning for this site will require a minimum 70-foot frontage to align with Council’s direction.
Some residents have also raised concerns about secondary suites. In 2022 and 2023, the Province made legislative changes (through Bill 23 and related regulations) that apply across Ontario. These provincial rules:
- Allow up to 3 units per property as-of-right, no matter the zoning
- Apply to every residential property in Ontario — R1, R2, R3, etc.
- Cannot be restricted by municipalities through zoning
So even if the site were zoned R1, the same permissions for secondary suites would still apply.
With the reduction to six lots and wider frontages, the built form will naturally result in greater spacing between homes and a streetscape more consistent with the neighbourhood.
Thank you to everyone who has reached out — your engagement has helped shape the direction of this proposal. I will continue to keep the community informed as this matter progresses, including ratification next week at Council, timelines for servicing the lands, and when the parcels will eventually be put out for sale.
#LeadershipThatGetsThingsDone #LeadershipThatPutsPeopleFirst
