The Town of Aurora is entering an “infill” phase of growth where higher density developments are being proposed more often. Infill developments can cause more disruptions than urban sprawl because they are happening within existing communities. Not only will infills cause temporary disruptions, they are changing our community’s landscape.
“Blaming the Province when an application reaches the tribunal does nothing to protect the best interests of Aurora.“
Anna Lozyk Romeo
With the Province pushing for intensification, applicants are bringing forward planning applications proposing much higher densities than currently permitted, thus requiring Zoning Bylaw and Official Plan amendments. When amendments are denied, instead of rectifying the proposal to comply, more often applicants are choosing to appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT).
“When people are unable to resolve their differences on community planning issues, or have disputes with their municipal council that can’t be settled, the OLT provides a forum to resolve those disputes.” Source
One of the examples I am aware of is an application for 271 Holladay Drive along Leslie Street in the east end of Aurora. The application proposed a development with double the density and double the height of what was permitted in the Town’s plan for this parcel of land. The surrounding neighbourhood and the Town Council were not in favour of this application so it was referred back to a second Public Planning meeting to allow for further consultation with the surrounding neighbourhood.
Subsequently, the applicant chose not to deal with the community and appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
What Can a Municipality Do When Appealed?
I will always encourage members of the public to participate and delegate on planning applications, but once an application begins the appeals process, public involvement is further restricted.
At that point, it becomes be very prudent for Council to ensure that the Town is adequately represented by an OLT/OMB experienced defence team comprised of a lawyer and a planner.
Blaming the Province when an application reaches the tribunal does nothing to protect the best interests of Aurora.
