While I did vote against the settlement offer, there are positive aspects to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) decision for the development at 65 St. John’s Sideroad. These include the elimination of the emergency access off Pittypat Court, the inclusion of a trail connection and public parking spaces to Atkinson Park, and an increase in the buffer from 30 to 40 metres.
As I have often stated, the OLT process is inherently challenging, requiring us to balance community interests with the legal and planning frameworks that govern development. Once an application reaches the OLT, Council has limited influence over land use planning decisions for our community. In this case, the issue was not whether development should occur, but rather how much and what type would be appropriate. The process has been thoroughly followed, and the decision reflects these complexities.
Although I am not fully satisfied with the overall outcome, it is important to note that the application satisfied the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority and the settlement offer reflects the will of the majority of Council and has been finalized by the OLT. I respect the decision made through this process.
5 Responses
Hello Tom just to clarify, this means that there will be development on both sides of the marsh?
I still don’t think this is a great use of wetlands but, as usual, the powers that be seem to know best. Isn’t there an historic bunker at the back of this property that was built during WWII for the government officials in case of a major catastrophe? It might have been built during the Cold War – not sure – but my belief is it is still there. Will it remain?
The OLT has always had too much power to overrule local councils. Is Ontario the only province in this situation?
I am living in Aurora at Woodheaven Subdivision on Sunset Vista Court.
I disagreed that killed the green surfaces around me.
I moved in Aurora in 2022 because More green less criminal than Richmond Hill.
I contacted couple of times with Aurora town but I was disappointed about the staff and take care of my right.
I am an architect and I am working construction field since 2009 in Canada. I hold my Master of Science degree. I know my right in Canada because I worked with Brampton, Richmond Hill, Georgina town etc. But only Aurora town doesn’t take care of the residents right! It was my experience maybe I was wrong but I disagreed with this new project!
Thanks
The bunker noted above is correct but not from WW2
It came about as a result of the 1962 Cuba/US issue
When Metro Toronto Police took over the building from the defunct EMO in the 1970’s I was assigned there as a police officer. The bunker, that replaced a pool has two meters of concrete for a roof. Very impressive.
It’s a historic building and is now in private hands and should stay there for some time