Hello Ward 8 Neighbours,
The City wants to have a “comprehensive” approach to its land-use policy with the newly expanded urban area and secondary plans.
For more details, please continue reading below…
“I think there’s no question that’s the only way forward here,” Coun. John-Paul Danko told the city’s planning committee on Tuesday as the City works towards its land-use policy for Hamilton’s newly expanded urban area.
At their March 21st meeting, the planning committee voted 12-0 to have staff lead the development of “comprehensive” secondary plans, a process that’s to include public consultation.
Before any development begins, secondary plans (technical studies to map out a range of community needs, including schools, stormwater ponds, roads and parks) must be drafted by developers.
The Star states that those mandatory documents, which private developers can prepare on their own and submit, are enshrined through changes to the city’s overarching official plan.
A City report noted that privately drafted secondary plans come at a cost, with substantial staff time needed to process and review any applications.
But with the provincial government enacting changes, the city must now deal with such proposals within 120 days or refund fees to applicants.
Senior City staff hope developers will allow them to complete the process, otherwise there may be adversarial situations, as rejected applications can lead to appeals at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Staff have been directed to report back in April on any potential hike in fees and other details, including the proposed sequencing of city-led secondary plans.
Questions or concerns?
If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact our office here.