Body: Planning Committee Type: Agenda Meeting: Regular Date: September 9, 2019 Collection: Council Agendas Municipality: Frontenac County
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Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Monday, September 9, 2019 – 10:00 a.m.
Frontenac Room, 2069 Battersea Road, Glenburnie, ON
AGENDA Page 1.
Call to Order
Adoption of the Agenda a) That the agenda for the September 9, 2019 meeting of the Planning Advisory Committee be adopted.
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
Adoption of Minutes a) Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
3 - 10
That the minutes of the Planning Advisory Committee meeting held May 6, 2019 be adopted. 5.
Deputations and/or Presentations
Briefings a) Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will provide the Planning Advisory Committee with the planning briefing.
Reports to the Planning Advisory Committee a) 2019-098 Planning and Economic Developmen Response to Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) Review
11 - 37
38 - 50
Recommendation Resolved That the Planning Advisory Committee receive the ‘Response to the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) Review’report; And Further That the Council of the County of Frontenac direct staff to submit the comments as set out in Appendix 1 of this report to the
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Page Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing prior to the deadline of October 21st, 2019. 8.
Communications
Other Business
Next Meeting a) The next regular meeting of the Planning Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 11, 2019 at the County Administrative Offices. This date is subject to discussion, as members may be attending Remembrance Day Ceremonies and quorum not met.
Adjournment
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Minutes of the Planning Advisory Committee Meeting May 6, 2019 A meeting of the Planning Advisory Committee was held in the Frontenac Room, County Administrative Office, 2069 Battersea Road, Glenburnie on Monday, May 6, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. Present: Warden Higgins Deputy Warden Smith Councillor Vandewal Phil Leonard Lisa Henderson Barbara Sproule Regrets: Councillor Doyle Staff Present: Kelly Pender, Chief Administrative Officer Megan Rueckwald, Manager of Community Planning Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development Angelique Tamblyn, Executive Assistant (Recording Secretary) Alyssa Alexander, Planning Intern 1.
Call to Order
Ms. Rueckwald called the meeting to order at 10:04 a.m. 2.
Committee Orientation a)
Mr. Kelly Pender, CAO, provided the new Planning Advisory Committee with an orientation which included an overview of meeting procedures, the Planning Advisory Committees mandate and the member’s roles and responsibilities with respect to the Code of Conduct for elected and appointed officials.
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Election of Officers
Ms. Rueckwald conducted the election of officers. a)
Election of Chair
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Vandewal Warden Higgins
That Deputy Warden Frances Smith be elected Chair of the Planning Advisory Committee for 2019. Carried Moved By: Seconded By:
Mr. Leonard Councillor Vandewal
That nominations for Chair be closed. Carried Deputy Warden Smith accepted the nomination of Chair. b)
Election of Vice Chair
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Vandewal Warden Higgins
That Warden Higgins be elected Vice-Chair of the Planning Advisory Committee for 2019. Carried Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Vandewal Ms. Sproule
That nominations for Vice-Chair be closed. Carried Warden Higgins accepted the nomination of Vice-Chair. Deputy Warden Smith assumed the Chair.
Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Adoption of the Agenda
Moved By: Seconded By:
Ms. Sproule Ms. Henderson
That the agenda for the May 6, 2019 meeting of the Planning Advisory Committee be adopted. Carried 5.
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
Ms. Sproule declared a pecuniary interest with respect to item 7a) regarding the deputation of Mr. Darwyn Sproule on the Township of North Frontenac citizen concerns over Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI) as Mr. Darwyn Sproule is her son. 6.
Adoption of Minutes a)
Minutes of Meeting held April 9, 2018
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Vandewal Mr. Leonard
That the minutes of the Planning Advisory Committee meeting held April 9, 2018 be adopted. Carried b)
Minutes of Public Meeting held May 9, 2018
Moved By: Seconded By:
Warden Higgins Ms. Sproule
That the minutes of the Planning Advisory Committee Public meeting held May 9, 2018 be adopted. The Committee would like the minutes to reflect that the June meeting was cancelled in 2018. Carried 7.
Deputations and/or Presentations
Ms. Sproule left the meeting due to a pecuniary interest.
Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
a)
Mr. Darwyn Sproule provided a deputation to the Committee regarding Township of North Frontenac citizen concerns over Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI). Mr. Sproule notes that Mr. Steven Dunham was also in attendance as a concerned property owner. Mr. Sproule went through the presentation provided to the Committee and expressed concern that residents were not informed of the ANSIs and that the designation impacts private lands. He informed the Committee that the residents have not received information from the Ministry and that these decisions should be dealt with at the Township level. Mr. Sproule requested a change to the County Official Plan to separate regional and provincially significant ANSIs.
Discussion Warden Higgins provided an update on behalf of North Frontenac Township. He stated that the Township never previously included ANSIs on their mapping and that the Ministry did inform the Township that there was an error with the Palmerston Lake ANSI. He stated that the County Official Plan should treat regional and provincial ANSI differently and that a resolution will be coming forth from the North Frontenac Council to change the County Official Plan. He stated that Bancroft MNRF staff could not meet with the Warden due to restricted travel. He stated that there is conflicting information in the Madawaska Highlands Land Use Plan and whether it pertains to Crown Land. He referred to Appendix 1A in the County of Frontenac Official Plan. Mr. Gallivan commented that the Ministry approved the County Official Plan in 2016 and that background studies were completed to inform the policy including the population projections and natural heritage study. Mr. Gallivan confirmed that the policies in the Official Plan came from the natural heritage study and provided the Committee with an overview of the public consultation completed for the Plan. Mr. Gallivan advised that he will be recommending to Council that the natural heritage study be updated in 2020 as part of the Official Plan update. He stressed that ANSI are regional concerns, not local and that the County is prepared to provide further information at the next meeting. Ms. Rueckwald advised that many members of the public and the Council may not be aware of the ANSI as the discussion has been local to North Frontenac. Ms. Rueckwald advised that Council could provide direction for planning staff to prepare a report regarding justification and official plan amendment process and timelines. Mr. Sproule noted that he and Mr. Dunham did meet with two employees in Bancroft regarding this ongoing issue. Chair Smith thanked Mr. Sproule for the presentation. Moved By: Seconded By:
Mr. Leonard Councillor Vandewal
That Council directs planning staff to prepare a report for the June 2019 County Council meeting that: Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
i. Provides rationale for the inclusion of Regional and Provincial Significant ANSIs in the County Official Plan; and ii. Provides an overview of the process for an Official Plan Amendment including the Planning Act framework and the anticipated timelines. Carried Ms. Sproule returned to the meeting. 11:05 a.m. b)
Ms. Claire Dodds and Ms. Trudy Gravel, Township of South Frontenac Planning Department, provided the Committee with an overview of the Townships planning and scheduled future works.
Ms. Dodds noted that the Development Services Department has seen a fair amount of change with many new staff being hired in the last 6 months. Dodds noted that the Department is focusing on three main projects, and provided an update on the development charges bylaw, growth management study, and Official Plan update. Ms. Gravel spoke to the influx of pre-consultation requests and walk-ins the Township is experiencing and the number of applications. Ms. Dodds noted that they received many inquiries for larger scale developments in South Frontenac. They are working with the County on building improvements and to streamline their Committee of Adjustment process and to improve processes and efficiencies. Ms. Dodds noted that they are reporting to South Frontenac Council on their work on this. Ms. Dodds extended her appreciation to Council and senior administration, and she also extended special thank you to Ms. Rueckwald for the assistance in the transition of planning staff. Ms. Dodds and Ms. Gavel noted that they are looking forward to working with County of Frontenac. Councillor Vandewal noted that the Township is trying to focus more time spent with the walk-in traffic and explain to residents the planning information up front. Council is also supporting to contract out some work such as engineering and fulfilment of conditions, and looking at planning services for items such as backlogs for planning applications. He said they receive 8-10 walk-ins per day in the spring and it has been a steady stream of applications. Chair Smith thanked Ms. Dodds and Ms. Gavel for presenting at the meeting. They exited the presentation at 11:19 a.m.
Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Briefings a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development provided the Planning Advisory Committee with his regular Director’s briefing. Mr. Gallivan introduced Alyssa Alexander who provided an overview of her planning interests and expressed excitement for working with the County. Ms. Sproule asked a question regarding the regional roads and the discrepancies in funding amongst the comparator municipalities. Mr. Pender provided clarification on this. Ms. Rueckwald provided an update on the improvements to the County Planning webpage.
Mr. Leonard exited the meeting at 11:49 am. 9.
Reports to the Planning Advisory Committee a)
2019-048 Planning Advisory Committee Status of Plans of Subdivision and Condominium in Frontenac County
This report is for information purposes only. b)
2019-049 Planning Advisory Committee Application for Draft Plan of Vacant Land Condominium Approval 10CD-2016/001 located at Part of Lots 15, 16 & 17, Concession 9, Geographic Township of Storrington, Township of South Frontenac, County of Frontenac (Shield Shores)
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Vandewal Warden Higgins
Whereas an application has been filed with the County of Frontenac for a Draft Plan of Vacant Land Condominium located at Part of Lots 15, 16 & 17, Concession 9, Geographic Township of Storrington, Township of South Frontenac, County of Frontenac; And Whereas the Planning Advisory Committee and the Council of the County of Frontenac considered all written and oral submissions received on this application, the effect of which helped the Council of the County of Frontenac make an informed decision; And Whereas the application is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (2014), conforms to the Frontenac County Official Plan, Township of South Frontenac Official Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Plan, will comply with the Township of South Frontenac Zoning By-law, and has been reviewed in accordance with the criteria of Section 51 (24) of the Planning Act. Therefore Be It Resolved That the Planning Advisory Committee receive the Planning Advisory Committee – Application for Draft Plan of Vacant Land Condominium Approval 10CD-2016/001 located at Part of Lots 15, 16 & 17, Concession 9, Geographic Township of Storrington, Township of South Frontenac, County of Frontenac (Shield Shores) report; And Further That the Council of the County of Frontenac approve the proposed 10CD2016/001 vacant land condominium development, including Draft Conditions of Approval attached to this report as Appendix A. Carried Mr. Youko Leclerc-Desjardins of Fotenn Consultants Inc and Mr. Barry Campbell, applicant, came forward to address any questions that the Committee may have. Councillor Vandewal noted that the last planning applications have been quiet. Warden Higgins requested clarification on the waterfrontage requirements in South Frontenac and whether the proposed frontages complied. Ms. Dodds noted that studies were submitted that addressed concerns regarding the narrow waterbody and that the minimum frontage is 91 metres outside of the narrow waterbody. Ms. Rueckwald noted that conditions by South Frontenac Township and reviewed by Township staff, planning consultants, Public Health and the local conservation authority. c)
2019-050 Planning Advisory Committee Township Committee of Adjustment Lean Process Improvement Update
This report is for information purposes only. Warden Higgins noted that the Lean Process was well done.
d)
2019-051 Planning Advisory Committee Authorization of Delegated Authority to the Director of Planning and Economic Development for Part Lot Control
Moved By: Seconded By:
Warden Higgins Ms. Sproule
Resolved That the Council of the County of Frontenac receive the Planning Advisory Committee – Delegated Authority for Part Lot Control – Amendment to Bylaw No. 20160006 Delegation of Authority Policy report for information; Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
And Further That the Council of the County of Frontenac authorize delegated authority to the Director of Planning and Economic Development for part lot control and amend the plans of subdivision and plans of condominium authorization wording. And Further That By-law 2016-0006 being a by-law to establish a Delegation of Authority Policy and to authorize the delegation of certain powers and duties under the Municipal Act, 2001, the Planning Act and other Acts be amended accordingly. Carried Ms. Rueckwald explained this further to the Committee and provided examples of what type of development may require this application. 10.
Communications
Other Business
There was none. 12.
Next Meeting
The next regular meeting of the Planning Advisory Committee is scheduled for Monday, July 8, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the County Administrative Building. The meetings are scheduled the 2nd Monday of every 2nd Month. Action: Ms. Rueckwald will send calendar invitations to the committee. 13.
Adjournment
Moved By: Seconded By:
Councillor Vandewal Ms. Henderson
That the meeting hereby adjourn at 12:25 p.m. Carried
Planning Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes May 6, 2019
Minutes of Meeting held May 6, 2019
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will pro… Page 11 of 50
Planning Briefing Planning Advisory Committee September 9th, 2019
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County Planning Projects
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Presentation to Queen’s School of Urban and Regional Planning Chinese Exchange, July 11th
AGENDA ITEM #a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will pro… Page 20 of 50
Presentation to Bob & Crow Lakes Association, August 28, 2019
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Queen’s University School of Urban and Regional Planning Frontenac Project – Fall 2019
AGENDA ITEM #a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will pro… Page 28 of 50
Ongoing Work – County • Frontenac County Population and Employment Projections, 2019-2049 – initiated • Communal Servicing Study – delivered to County Council June 19th • Active Transportation Plan – delivered to County Council in July • Reviewing Plan of Subdivision/Condominium applications and updating process • Website Update • Recruitment underway for LEAN Intern • Working with Communications on Bang the Table, online engagement platform • Ongoing consultation on existing Plans of Subdivision and Condominium files
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Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will pro… Page 29 of 50
Townships Planning
AGENDA ITEM #a)
Central Frontenac Official Plan Update – 3rd Draft 3 Open Houses held in August
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Township Planning
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Marysville Secondary Plan Open Houses on August 22nd
AGENDA ITEM #a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will pro… Page 32 of 50
North Frontenac New Zoning By-law – In Effect July 5th, 2019
AGENDA ITEM #a)
Mr. Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning and Economic Development will pro… Page 33 of 50
South Frontenac – Official Plan update Open House Schedule
Ongoing Work – Townships • Central Frontenac Official Plan update – 2nd draft released • •
Marysville Secondary Plan – project initiated •
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Public and Local Business Open House held August 22nd
North Frontenac Zoning By-law Review completed •
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3 Open Houses in Sharbot Lake – August
New By-law in effect July 5, 2019
Land Use Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) – hearing held June 24th – Central Frontenac – minor variance appeal – no decision
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Planning Advisory Committee Planning Briefing – September 9th, 2019
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Committee of Adjustment
Frontenac Islands
Township Council
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Planning Advisory Committee Planning Briefing – September 9th, 2019 Township Planning Activity (August)
AGENDA ITEM #a)
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County Planning Webpage - Updates
AGENDA ITEM #a)
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Questions ?
AGENDA ITEM #a)
Report 2019-098 Committee Recommend Report To:
Chair and Members of the Planning Advisory Committee
From:
Joe Gallivan, Director of Planning & Economic Development
Date of meeting:
September 9, 2019
Re:
Planning and Economic Development – Response to Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) Review
Recommendation Resolved That the Planning Advisory Committee receive the ‘Response to the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) Review’ report; And Further That the Council of the County of Frontenac direct staff to submit the comments as set out in Appendix 1 of this report to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing prior to the deadline of October 21st, 2019. Background On July 22nd, 2019, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) launched a consultation on proposed policy changes to the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS). The Director of Planning & Economic Development and the Manager of Community Planning attended a consultation workshop on September 5th, 2019. The document has been posted on the Environmental Bill of Rights website. This includes a copy of draft PPS as well as background information: Provincial Policy Statement Review // Direct Link to Proposed PPS For reference, a copy of the 2014 Provincial Policy Statement that is currently in place can be found here: 2014 Provincial Policy Statement Comment The PPS sets out the Province’s policy direction for land use planning and development. The PPS is issued under the authority of Section 3 of the Planning Act and plays the lead role in planning policy in Ontario by providing municipalities with direction on matters of provincial interest. The Planning Act requires that all decisions made by planning authorities must be consistent with the PPS. All planning documents such as
2019-098 Planning and Economic Developmen Response to Provincial Policy …
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
the County Official Plan, the Township Official Plans, and Township Zoning By-laws also must be consistent with the PPS. At this time, the Province is interested in receiving responses on the following questions:
- Do the proposed policies effectively support goals related to increasing housing supply, creating and maintaining jobs, and red tape reduction while continuing to protect the environment, farmland, and public health and safety?
- Do the proposed policies strike the right balance? Why or why not?
- How do these policies take into consideration the views of Ontario communities?
- Are there any other policy changes that are needed to support key priorities for housing, job creation, and streamlining development approvals?
- Are there other tools that are needed to help implement the proposed policies? Staff prepared a submission for Council’s consideration to MMAH (see Appendix 1). The County response and proposed changes to the PPS are based on the land use activities taking place in the Frontenacs and the need for flexibility to address changes in the rural economy that are currently constrained by some of the policies in the existing PPS. It is the opinion of staff that the changes proposed by the Ministry are positive for rural Eastern Ontario and provide better opportunities for rural economic development. Strategic Priority Implications Priority 1: Get behind plans that build community vitality and resilience in times of growth and change. This priority responds to high interest as well as concern shared broadly across the County that communities in the Frontenacs be well supported with infrastructure and services essential to vitality and sustainability in today’s world. This strategy also responds to the pressures for managing growth, housing and development wisely, in ways that are sensitive to local values and priorities. Objectives in support of this strategy: • Pursue proactive planning approaches that reflect local concerns and priorities within strategic regional planning policy so as to enhance service levels, manage rising demand for new housing and deal with new types of development. The submission prepared by staff on behalf of the County are based on this strategic priority of Council. Financial Implications There are no financial implications associated with this report. Organizations, Departments and Individuals Consulted and/or Affected All four Townships. Committee Recommend Report Planning and Economic Development – Response to Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) Review September 9, 2019
2019-098 Planning and Economic Developmen Response to Provincial Policy …
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission September 2019
2019-098 Planning and Economic Developmen Response to Provincial Policy …
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
County of Frontenac Provincial Policy Statement – Proposed Changes Background This paper is a response from the County of Frontenac to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) with regard to its draft update of the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS). MMAH released the draft on July 22nd, 2019, and is asking for comments on the revisions to the PPS prior to October 21st, 2019. The PPS serves as the preeminent policy document for land use planning in Ontario and provides policy direction on matters of provincial interest. The Ontario Planning Act requires that decisions on land use planning matters made by municipalities and other approval authorities “shall be consistent with” the PPS, including the development of Official Plans, Zoning By-laws, subdivision approvals, and minor variances. PPS in the Context of Frontenac County The County of Frontenac in size and density is very similar to the other Counties of Eastern Ontario. Frontenac is a primarily rural area, with a permanent population of approximately 27,000 spread over more than 3,700 sq km. The vast majority of development is residential with both permanent and a growing seasonal population. The Introductory section of the Frontenac County Official Plan provides a clear picture of the landscape: Without question Frontenac County is characterized by a predominantly rural landscape with small communities such as Plevna, Cloyne, Ompah, Sharbot Lake, Verona, Harrowsmith, Sydenham, Marysville, Howe Island and many more villages and hamlets throughout the geography. There are only small communities. …The largest villages have between 200 to 300 homes within their boundaries. Frontenac County’s history is rich in agricultural activity which continues today in the form of commodity farms, small family farms, hobby farms, horse ranches, forestry and other specialty farms. The agricultural roots of the community are celebrated in fairs, ploughing matches, church socials, and other events. Agriculture continues to play an important role in the County’s economy. The policies in the PPS have broad long term implications for rural communities. The way the policies are implemented into the four Township Official Plans within the County have a great deal of significance for how our municipal governments operate, and also affect businesses, farmers, rural landowners, economic investment and many community interests. It is important for sustainable growth in the Frontenacs that we have a planning system that is working well, balancing competing interests and preserving the rural lifestyle that draws people to work and live here. Land use policies play a major role in guiding decisions over where development should take place, how Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
2019-098 Planning and Economic Developmen Response to Provincial Policy …
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AGENDA ITEM #a)
quickly, and how much land should be allocated for various uses in the villages and the countryside. There are four lower tier municipalities in Frontenac County. At the time of this paper, North Frontenac Township has completed a new Official Plan that came into effect near the end of 2017 and conforms to the Frontenac County Official Plan (2016) and is consistent with the 2014 PPS. Central Frontenac Township is nearing completion of a new Plan that is expected to be adopted before the end of 2019. In August, 2019, South Frontenac Township began the process to develop a new Official Plan – the first since 2003 – and the goal is to have the Plan finished in the latter part of 2021. Frontenac Islands Township are planning to begin a new Official Plan review in late 2020. In summary, three of the four municipalities in Frontenac are expected to be affected by the proposed changes to the PPS, and also the County will need to be consistent with the new PPS when the County Official Plan review commences in 2021. With this request from MMAH to comment to the Province, the County has the opportunity to make suggestions that will provide a better balance between economic development, community sustainability, ecological protection, and protection of farmland. MMAH has posed five questions to respond to the draft PPS during this consultation. The County’s responses are set out below and are based on rural land uses that predominate the region: Question 1: Do the proposed policies effectively support goals related to increasing housing supply, creating and maintain jobs, and red tape reduction while continuing to protect the environment, farmland, and public health and safety? This is a very general question that has been posed by the Ministry. The draft PPS has been revised to include a slightly larger degree of flexibility to deal with some planning issues. No significant changes have been made to the majority of policy sections; in particular natural heritages policies contain the same level of environmental and natural protection. Revisions proposed to the PPS support and reinforce the existing policies in the County Official Plan that protect natural heritage, farmland, and public health and safety do not appear to be affected by this update. Official Plans will still need to “be consistent with” provincial policy. This continuation of “shall be consistent with” provides certainty in the planning process and in developing land use policy for both the County and the Townships. The residential growth rate in Frontenac County – and many rural areas of Eastern Ontario – is relatively low. The villages and hamlets are not subject to the development pressures and urban boundary expansions in towns and cities. In this context the County is pleased to see changes to the settlement area policy section with respect to boundary adjustment planning exercise that is more realistic in a rural environment. Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
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Agriculture is an important part of the employment sector in Frontenac. Despite having a limited amount of prime agricultural land, farming activity takes place across the region and is an important part of not only the economy but the culture of rural Eastern Ontario. The draft 2019 PPS includes new terminology to describe “Agricultural Systems” and the “Agri-Food Network”, that support the broader farming community beyond prime agricultural areas. With respect to increasing housing supply, the inclusion of the term “Housing Options” sets a strong foundation for permitting a range of housing types and forms; these options are consistent with policy direction in place across much of the County. Where greater clarification could be provided is in the use of term “market-based range and mix” when referring to residential uses in section 1.1.1.b). In the context of Frontenac, if the current market is for single-detached dwellings and this trend continues, opportunities for affordable housing or a mix and range of residential uses may not be met. In addition, there are many factors beyond the municipalities control when allocating residential development and outside factors such as short-term accommodation rentals add extra layers of complexity specially related to affordability. Section 1.1.5 Rural Lands in Municipalities guides the majority of development across the County. Greater clarification is required for the use of term resource-based recreational uses (including recreational dwellings) as a permitted use in the rural area. When modelling lake capacity, it is imperative to understand the use of the residential property to properly assess phosphorous loading potential. Greater clarification on the use of term recreation dwelling would assist staff when calculating lake capacity. Recommendation #1 That Frontenac County supports the retention of the existing natural heritage policies in the 2019 draft PPS. This is a key consideration for Frontenac as almost 75 per cent of the total land area of 2400 square kilometres contains natural heritage features and serve as a core component of the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the region. Recommendation #2 The County supports the continued requirement that all planning approvals “shall be consistent with” the Provincial Policy Statement as it provides a high level of consistency in the land use planning process and the development of land use policy. Recommendation #3 That Frontenac County supports the proposed changes to Section 1.1.3 (Settlement Areas) that provide more flexibility for rural communities. In particular:
New wording in Section 1.1.3.8 that states that, “in undertaking a comprehensive review the level of detail of the assessment should correspond with the complexity and scale of the settlement area boundary expansion or proposal”; and
Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
2019-098 Planning and Economic Developmen Response to Provincial Policy …
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New Section 1.1.3.9 which under certain conditions will allow for municipalities to adjust settlement area boundaries outside a formal comprehensive review.
Recommendation #4 That Frontenac County supports the new definitions for “Agricultural System” and “Agrifood Network” as well as corresponding policy changes to Section 1.7(i) (Long Term Economic Prosperity) and Section 2.3.2 (Agriculture) that are intended to sustain and protect agricultural resources. Recommendation #5 That Frontenac County supports the inclusion of the term “Housing Options” but seeks greater clarity on the term “market-based” as referenced in section 1.1.1.b). Question 2: Do the proposed policies strike the right balance? Why or why not? As noted above in response to Question 1, Frontenac County supports the “shall be consistent with” approach – this level of certainty (compared to “have regard to”) expedites the planning process as the planning rules that are included in Upper Tier and Lower Tier Official Plans and Zoning By-laws are clear at the outset of a planning application. Also as noted above, Frontenac supports the continued strong environmental protection policies contained in the draft PPS (Natural Heritage) which will allow for the protection of more than 70 % of the land area in the County. The revisions to rural land use policies in the draft PPS have resulted in a policy section that is less prescriptive and more flexible. This is a pragmatic approach that recognizes that the rural landscape – and permitted rural land uses – can be significantly different across Ontario, and which allows municipalities to have more control over the policy approach that best fits their circumstances. This is also reinforced in the changes to the boundary expansion / revision process that will allow smaller rural communities to make boundary changes through a less rigorous process than urban areas. The County commends the Province on the inclusion of the term “Impacts of a Changing Climate” and the direction for climate change action at the regional and local levels. In recognizing that natural heritage features play a critical role in mitigating the impacts of a changing climate, the County works alongside the four Conservation Authorities within the region in the protection of wetlands and waterbodies. Stronger language to support the management of wetlands as listed in Section 2.1.10 could better meet the climate change policies within the document. The revisions to Section 2.5 Mineral Aggregate Resources propose to permit extraction in certain natural heritage features provided that the long-term rehabilitation can demonstrate no negative impacts on the natural features or their ecological functions. While the County supports extraction of mineral aggregates and has areas identified for potential, greater clarification on how such an operation may have no negative impacts on the natural features or their ecological functions. Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
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Recommendation #6 Frontenac County acknowledges that, when compared to the current PPS, the draft 2019 PPS provides a better balance and more flexibility to deal with planning issues in rural planning areas and the County supports these changes. Recommendation #7 Frontenac County acknowledges that the term “Impacts of a Changing Climate” provides clarification for planning authorities incorporating climate related policies within land use plans. The County supports the retention of the existing natural heritage policies and that Section 2.1.10 permits municipalities to manage additional wetlands in accordance with the guidelines development by the Province. Recommendation #8 Frontenac County recommends the Province provide clarification on the requirements for mineral aggregate extraction in identified natural heritage features as listed in section 2.5.2.2 as to how these operations can demonstrate no negative impacts on the natural features or ecological functions of said features. Question 3: How do these policies take into consideration the views of Ontario communities? See Recommendation #6 above. The proposed changes will allow communities more opportunity to create planning policy that recognizes what is currently ‘on the ground’ and more flexibility is setting priorities (e.g., for Frontenac County, the County Official Plan recognizes that protection of the natural environment across the region is a key priority). Question 4: Are there any other policy changes that are needed to support key priorities for housing, job creation, and streamlining of development approvals? Frontenac County context – communal services: With the exception of the water system in the village of Sydenham, there are no municipal water or sewer systems in the villages and hamlets in the County and it is highly unlikely that any municipal systems will be created in the near future. Many of the villages in the Frontenacs have been formally identified as “settlement areas” in their respective Township Official Plans. The current PPS does not recognize that there are many settlement areas in rural Ontario that have no water or sewer services, although the municipality is trying to direct growth to reinforce the stability of a community and to reduce sprawl. The ability to provide full municipal services in any of the settlement areas in Frontenac County is unrealistic and could not happen with a significant infrastructure funding investment from the Province.
Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
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The County has spent the past two years completing a regional study to promote the use of communal services for new development and redevelopment in settlement areas
- 2019 Communal Services Study. Implementation will begin in 2020 and will be crucial to create new employment areas, allow for new forms of residential development beyond single detached homes, and the stabilizing and strengthening of existing mainstreets, as well as better environmental protection. It is noted that there are a number of changes proposed in the draft PPS that promote communal services both for new forms of development and protecting and strengthening mainstreets. For example:
New wording has been added in the Settlement Areas policy section that states that “vitality and regeneration (emphasis added) of settlement areas is critical” (Section 1.1.3); In the Housing section it is noted that planning authorities shall provide for an appropriate range and mix of housing options and densities, in part by “permitting and facilitating housing options required to meet . . . the needs arising from demographic changes and employment opportunities” (Section 1.4.3 b) ). Further, in Section 1.7 it is noted that long term economic prosperity should be supported by … encouraging residential uses to respond to dynamic marketbased needs and provide necessary housing supply and range of housing options for a diverse workforce” (Section 1.7.1 b) ). In Frontenac County (as in other parts of rural Ontario) there is a lack of seniors housing, medium density housing, and apartments. The only opportunity for this housing market to be supplied is through installation of communal services.
Section 1.6.6.3 is proposed to be revised to state that where full municipal services are not available (or financially feasible), that “… private communal sewage services and private communal water services are the preferred form of servicing for multi-unit/lot development to support protection of the environment and minimize potential risks to human health and safety” (Section 1.6.6.3). The County recognizes that the wording is proposed to be changed from “municipalities may allow the use of” communal services to recognizing this type of servicing as a “preferred form”.
The term “Housing Options” outlines a number of residential uses including rowhouses and townhouses that may be made feasible on in rural settlement areas across the County as a result of development on communal services.
The County of Frontenac is committed to supporting the Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN). Improved broadband access is a critical economic development tool in Eastern Ontario. The inclusion of policy direction that supports broadband connectivity as a driver for economic development and key determinant in land use development patterns could further support the work of EORN. The County of Frontenac supports engagement with Indigenous communities in the coordination of land use planning matters with the included policy in Section 1.2.2. It is Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
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the County’s understanding that a future Ministry document will provide greater clarity; the County welcomes this. Section 4.7 requires planning authorities to identify and fast-track priority applications which support housing and job-related growth and development. While it is recognized that the County will be responsible for establishing criteria for priority applications, this could lead to significant delays to non-priority applications leading to a greater expenditure of time and money spent on Local Planning Appeal Tribunal hearings. Recommendation #9 Frontenac County supports the proposed changes to Sections 1.4, 1.6, and 1.7 that will facilitate the use of communal services in villages and hamlets which for Frontenac will support key priorities for housing and job creation. Recommendation #10 Broadband is a key economic development tool for rural Eastern Ontario. Inclusion of policy that reflects this will further support the objective of EORN and its partners; this could be a consideration for Section 1.7 Long-Term Economic Prosperity. Question 5: Are there other tools that are needed to help implement the proposed policies? One planning tool that currently not prescribed under the Planning Act or through regulation is the use of conditional zoning. Conditional zoning allows for increased flexibility and permits municipalities to respond to the unique features of a particular land use application. It has the potential to allow for a planning approval through one planning process and can be applied in rural areas where the landscape and land uses are typically diverse. Recommendation #11 Frontenac County recommends that the Province consider allowing for the use of conditional zoning in the planning process. Additional Comments Accurate, up-to-date mapping is critical for planning decision makers. The Provincial Policy Statement directs planning authorities to protect a number of features and resources as well as to avoid development in certain areas. In the context of Frontenac, the County and member municipalities rely on the various Ministries including the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry and the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, to identify these areas. Efficiencies are found when this work is carried out at the Provincial level; the costs of retaining a consultant to perform mapping services is not feasible at the local level. For instance, Section 2.5.1 requires that where provincial information is available, deposits of mineral aggregate resources shall be identified. If this provincial information is not up to date on the layers available through Land Information Ontario, a proponent may have undergone unnecessary works leading to project delays as a result. Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
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In addition to updated mapping, the County of Frontenac would like to request that implementation guidelines be prepared as part of the release of the 2019 PPS. Implementation guidelines will provide greater clarity to approval authorities and members of the public and private consultants. Summary and Conclusion The County of Frontenac generally supports the overall changes to the Provincial Policy Statement. The changes will allow for a greater degree of flexibility and discretion for dealing with small-scale development in rural Ontario that can enhance economic opportunities. It is important for sustainable, long term growth in Frontenac County that we have a provincial planning system that is working well in balancing competing interests and preserving the rural lifestyle that draws people to work and live here. Economic opportunities will need to be pursued at the local level that can allow people to remain in our communities and ensure that the area remains vibrant. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed changes to the Provincial Policy Statement. The County looks forward to a continued partnership with the Ministry on this project and future engagement on changes to the land use planning framework in Ontario.
Provincial Policy Statement Review County of Frontenac Submission to the Province of Ontario September 2019
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