council agenda closed session – 4:30 p.m. official plan

Council Agenda July 28th, 2014
Closed Session – 4:30 p.m. Official Plan Amendment #16 Public Meeting – 5:00 p.m.
Citizens’ Charter Working Group Presentation – 6:00 p.m. Regular Council – 6:30 p.m.
1. Call to Order 2. Moment of Reflection 3. Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof 4. Citizens’ Charter Working Group Presentation – 6:00 p.m.
a) Tabling of CCWG Final Report 5. Announcements 6. Presentations
a) Name the Swans – Contest Winners b) Joseph Leung – Deep Geological Nuclear Repositories c) Aly Boltman – Community Foundation of Grey-Bruce
7. Public Question Period 8. Reports and By-laws for Decision 8.1 Determination of items requiring separate discussion
a) Report CAO2014-06 – Meaford Economic Development
Strategy Review and Update
Recommendation: That Council of the Municipality of Meaford: 1) Approve that the pillars of the Meaford Economic
Development Plan be revised to three pillars: Tourism, Retail and Agribusiness;
2) Approve that the priority focus for the Municipality of Meaford’s economic efforts for the next three years be within the tourism and agribusiness pillars;
3) Approve that staff, in consultation with the Farmers’ Market, review the feasibility of a year-round Farmers’ Market to support and promote the Municipality of Meaford’s agribusiness and tourism sector;
Council Meeting July 28, 2014
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4) Approve that the capital and infrastructure projects outlined within the approved Harbour Village concept, totaling approximately $4.6 million of the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan, June 2014 be prioritized and applicable funding be recommended for the consideration of Council starting in 2015 and future annual budgets;
5) Approve that staff review the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) funding available through the Green Municipal Fund Brownfields funding (site remediation or risk management) for public and private lands within the designated waterfront lands, and draft an application for future Council consideration;
6) Approve that $5,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary reserve fund for economic development be utilized to enhance horticulture and beautification in the downtown historic core by mid-August 2014;
7) Approve that $8,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary reserve fund for economic development be utilized for benches to improve the public realm services in the downtown historic core by mid-August 2014; and
8) Approve that $15,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary reserve fund for economic development be utilized to improve the landscape and other features at Irish Mountain Lookout by end of October 2014.
b) By-law 059-2014 – Economic Development Liaison Group
Terms of Reference Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 059-2014, being a by-law to establish and adopt Terms of Reference for the Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group, be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
c) Report FS2014-12 – North East Grey Health Clinics Inc.
Line of Credit Request Recommendation: That Council of the Municipality of Meaford direct that the payments to the North East Grey Health Clinics Inc. for 2013 and 2014 totaling $50,000 be accelerated and released as soon as possible.
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d) By-law 060-2014 – Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan Implementation
Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 060-2014, being by-law to adopt Official Plan Amendment #16 to the Municipality of Meaford Official Plan (Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan Implementation), be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
e) By-law 061-2014 – Removal of Holding Symbol (H1) – Carey Homes Inc., 185 Fraser Street – Plan 457 Lot 5 Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 061-2014, being a by-law to amend Zoning By-law 60-2009 (185 Fraser Street, Plan 457 Lot 5 former Township of St. Vincent) of the Municipality of Meaford, be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
f) By-law 062-2014 – Site Plan Agreement – Carey Homes Inc., 185 Fraser Street – Plan 457 Lot 5 Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 062-2014, being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Site Plan Control Agreement between Carey Homes Inc. and the Municipality of Meaford (185 Fraser Street, Plan 457 Lot 5), be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
g) By-law 063-2014 –Removal of Holding Symbol (H1) – Douglas Stephen Haslam, 111 Kiowana Beach Road – Plan 363 Lot 5 to 5A Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 063-2014, being a by-law to amend Zoning By-law 60-2009 (111 Kiowana Beach Road, former Township of St. Vincent) of the Municipality of Meaford, be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
h) By-law 064-2014 – Site Plan Agreement – Douglas Stephen Haslam, 111 Kiowana Beach Road – Plan 363 Lot 5 to 5A
Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 064-2014, being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Site Plan Control Agreement between Douglas Stephen Haslam and the
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Municipality of Meaford (111 Kiowana Beach Road, former Township of St. Vincent), be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
i) Report PB2014-20 – Medical Marihuana Study (Addendum)
Recommendation: That Council of the Municipality of Meaford defer a decision on the request to amend Zoning By-law 60-2009 to include site-specific provisions relating to a Medical Marihuana Grow Operation proposed at 205789 Highway #26 West in the former Township of St. Vincent, now in the Municipality of Meaford.
j) By-law 065-2014 – Medical Marihuana Study and Removal of Interim Control (Amending By-law 60-2009) Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 065-2014, being a by-law to amend Zoning By-law 60-2009 of the Municipality of Meaford and remove lands from an area of Interim Control, repealing By-law 34-2014, be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
k) By-law 066-2014 – Medical Marihuana Study –Site Plan
Control (Amending By-law 26-2009) Be it resolved that By-law 066-2014, being a by-law to amend By-law 26-2009 to Establish Site Plan Control within the Municipality of Meaford, as amended, be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
l) Report PB2014-31 and By-law 067-2014 – Heritage
Conservation District Plan
Recommendation: 1) Be it resolved that that By-law 067-2014, being a by-law
to designate the Downtown Meaford Heritage Conservation District under Section 41 of the Ontario Heritage Act be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed; and
2) That Council of the Municipality of Meaford conceptually endorse the Heritage Permit process outlined in Staff Report PB2014-31.
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Recommendation: That Council of the Municipality of Meaford award Tender OP-TS-2014-04 – Surface Treatment to MSO Construction Ltd. for $268,852.46, including the Municipality’s non-refundable allocation of HST.
8.2 Adoption of items not requiring separate discussion 8.3 Consideration of items requiring separate discussion 9. Formal Resolutions (Notice Previously Given)
a) Councillor Stephens - Deep Geological Nuclear Repositories Whereas Ontario Power Generation is proposing to construct an underground long-term burial facility for all of Ontario’s low and intermediate level radioactive nuclear waste at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station, some of which is highly radioactive and will remain toxic for over 100,000 years. The site would be approximately 400 meters below the lake level; and Whereas water is Canada’s most important resource and should be protected and managed prudently; and Whereas the Great Lakes are an irreplaceable natural resource, containing 21% of the world’s and 95% of North America’s fresh water vital to human and environmental health; and Whereas the Great Lakes including Georgian Bay are a source of drinking water for millions of people; and Whereas placing a permanent nuclear burial facility so close to the Great Lakes is ill-advised and has potential damage from leakage or breach of radioactivity; Therefore be it resolved that the Council of the Municipality of Meaford does not support an underground nuclear waste repository near or around the Great Lakes; and Be it further resolved that the Council of the Municipality of Meaford urges the Government of Canada and the Government of the Province of Ontario to seek alternatives to Ontario Power Generation’s proposal to bury radioactive nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin.
10. Adoption of Minutes
Recommendation: Be it resolved that Council of the Municipality of Meaford hereby adopt the minutes of the council meetings held June 16 and July 14, 2014.
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11. Communications
a) Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Board Minutes – June 11, 2014
b) Grey County Council Minutes – July 8, 2014 c) Citizens’ Charter Working Group Minutes – June 18 and
30, 2014 and July 21, 2014 d) BIA Board Minutes – May 7, 2014 e) Riverside Community Centre Board Minutes – June 18, 2014 f) AMO Policy Update – The 2014 Provincial Budget g) Correspondence List
12. Council Inquiries
a) Official Plan Amendment #16 - Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan Implementation
14. Closed Session – 4:30 p.m.
Recommendation: Be it resolved that Council of the Municipality of Meaford does now go into a closed session at __:__ p.m. in the boardroom to discuss an item which relates to the receiving of advice that is subject to Solicitor-Client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, and involving litigation or potential litigation affecting the Municipality with the CAO, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk, Director of Planning & Building remaining in the room. a) Solicitor-Client Privilege/ Litigation or Potential
Litigation/ – Gardner Orchards Ltd.
15. Confirming By-law
Recommendation: Be it resolved that By-law 068-2014, being a by- law to confirm the proceedings of the Council of the Municipality of Meaford at its regular and special meetings held in the month of July 2014 be taken as read a first, second and third time and finally passed.
16. Adjournment
From Denyse Morrissey, Chief Administrative Officer
Subject Meaford Economic Development Strategy Review and Update
Report No. CAO2014-06 Roll No. N/A
Recommendation
That Committee of the Whole recommend Council of the Municipality of Meaford:
1) Approve that the pillars of the Meaford Economic Development Plan be revised to three pillars: Tourism, Retail and Agribusiness;
2) Approve that the priority focus for the Municipality of Meaford’s economic efforts for the next three years be within the tourism and agribusiness pillars;
3) Approve that staff, in consultation with the Farmers’ Market, review the feasibility of a year-round Farmers’ Market to support and promote the Municipality of Meaford’s agribusiness and tourism sector;
4) Approve that the capital and infrastructure projects outlined within the approved Harbour Village concept, totaling approximately $4.6 million of the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan, June 2014 be prioritized and applicable funding be recommended for the consideration of Council starting in 2015 and future annual budgets;
5) Approve that staff review the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) funding available through the Green Municipal Fund Brownfields funding (site remediation or risk management) for public and private lands within the designated waterfront lands, and draft an application for future Council consideration;
6) Approve that $5,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary reserve fund for economic development be utilized to enhance horticulture and beautification in the downtown historic core by mid- August 2014;
7) Approve that $8,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary reserve fund for economic development be utilized for benches to improve the public realm services in the downtown historic core by mid-August 2014;
Report CAO2014-06 Page 1 of 20
8) Approve that $15,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary reserve fund for economic development be utilized to improve the landscape and other features at Irish Mountain Lookout by end of October 2014; and
9) Enact a by-law to adopt the terms of reference for the Economic Development Liaison Group.
Financial Impact The three recommended projects represent allocating $28,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary capital reserve fund established for economic development on June 9, 2014. Background Economic Development is not a legislated program or mandatory activity for the Municipality of Meaford. Like Meaford, many Ontario and Canadian municipalities have identified economic development as a priority. Promoting economic growth, prosperity and sustainability is critical to ensuring strategic approaches to attract investment, both locally and regionally, diversify the local economy, and grow local assessment through additional tax revenue. Economic development is also a key strategic objective of Grey County which is the fourth largest county in Ontario, covering an area of 4,513.21 square kilometers and is home to 92, 568 residents. Grey County has also recently approved an initiative to develop a focused, contemporary and relevant economic development strategy. Meaford Economic Development Strategy (MEDS) The opportunity to review the scope of the 2010 Meaford Economic Development Strategy (MEDS) including the four existing pillars of MEDS, was identified as being both strategic and beneficial in order provide a more defined one to three year focus for the Municipality of Meaford’s economic development efforts. Overall, the mission of MEDS is to:
• Develop specific strategies for growing the economic strength and resilience of the Municipality of Meaford
• Develop a stronger economic environment in general, and larger and more diversified tax base
• Increase the revenue of the Municipality by growing the tax base (ie the number of residences/businesses paying municipal taxes)
• Increase non-tax revenues, thereby reducing the overall subsidy burden on all tax payers
In order to achieve the overall strategic objectives of MEDS, Council and the Municipality of Meaford committed to three broad strategies:
1. Council and management will actively lead, facilitate and enable economic development in Meaford;
2. The Municipality will provide leadership and services to encourage and support people wishing to expand their business or bring a new business to Meaford;
3. The Municipality will focus its economic development resources on four strategic business sectors (identified in MEDS as Agri-business, tourism, retail and green business).
MEDS “Refresh” A prioritization of the strategies within MEDS considered:
• The MEDS strategy of February 2010 indentified a wide range of actions, strategies and deliverable as well as minor and major projects
• The four pillars of MEDS – Tourism, Retail, Agribusiness, and Green Business
• The objective for this ‘refresh’ is to develop a more focused approach for our priorities, goals, actions and deliverables for the next 1-3 years
• To determine what we should be putting on our ‘economic development plate’ and which pillars should be our focus for the next 1-3 years
• Recognition that Ontario’s city and urban populations are continuing to explode while rural populations are shrinking: key is surviving, responding and adapting
It was critical to staff that the next one to three year plans, goals and objectives needed be achievable, deliverable, action oriented, affordable and appropriately funded, practical yet still be visionary, innovative, and entrepreneurial. Moving economic development forward in a results-oriented manner would also need to address and minimize the scope of negative thinking or resistance to change. This would better enable a culture of innovation and some managed risk taking. It is also essential to learn from the successes (and failures) as well as best practices in other communities to better achieve increased growth in Meaford.
As part of the MEDS review, stakeholder consultation was completed in 2013. The September 2013 agenda for the MEDS community sessions included the following discussion questions:
1. What are we doing well? 2. What activities/strategies can we expand on in the Municipality? 3. What do we need to re-evaluate – e.g. Is our Brand still relevant?
The ‘Green Business’ Pillar? 4. Quick Wins for the Municipality – for the next 3, 6, and 12 months?
The input from the September 2013 working sessions is summarized in Appendix 1 and were grouped into the following headings: Recreation and Outdoor Leisure, Arts and Culture, Agriculture & Local Foods, Scenery and Landscape, Community Spirit and Volunteers, Education and Health Care, and General.
MEDS Refresh Question 1: What are we doing well?
Overall, significant input which was provided which reinforced that the Municipality of Meaford is a wonderful community to live, work and a strategic place to invest. Meaford is a collection of historic villages and communities including Woodford, Bognor, Rockford, Annan and Leith.
“The Municipality of Meaford is a fascinating, four-season destination that has it all: great live theatre and concerts, fresh local food, unique shopping, nature at your doorstep, a beautiful waterfront and so much more.
The quaint and charming historic downtown district features Meaford Hall – a restored 300 seat theatre, concert and cinema venue, plus distinctive boutiques, eclectic eateries and services of all kinds. Just a few minutes away, you’ll find acres of rolling countryside, charming historic villages, sandy beaches and unspoiled natural areas.”
(Welcome to Meaford, Municipal Tourism Website and See & Do Guide 2014)
The stakeholder sessions and other consultation reinforced that Meaford offers:
• Spectacular landscapes and vistas • Waterfront community with harbour and marina • Public beaches, trails and parks • Recreation and Leisure opportunities • Great community events and a community with spirit • Strong volunteer network
• Friendly community • Arts and culture experience and facilities • Hospital and health care services • Agriculture and farming • Farmer’s Market • Authentic ‘Small Town’ and community feel • Dog Friendly community • Historic and character downtown • Within 2 hour drive of Toronto/GTA and other major Ontario markets
MEDS Refresh Question 2: What activities/strategies can we expand on in the Municipality?
In addition to what is being well done in the Municipality of Meaford, a range of opportunities for improvement were identified. These included:
• Expanded accommodations, including a hotel in urban Meaford • Make Meaford a cultural destination, and develop local heroes profiles • Greater emphasis on local food, and Meaford Farmers’ Market • Enhance beautification and larger investment annually throughout the
Municipality and especially in the downtown core to “stop drive through” character of Meaford
• Develop ways to reduce the seasonality of business in Meaford and review successes in other communities
• Better recognize the nodes of business that exist throughout the Municipality (ie Rockford).
• Increase the involvement of entrepreneurs and business community by creating an advisory group on economic development
• Develop and support initiatives to achieve a more vibrant downtown core, including business hours of operation, and encouraging people to shop local.
• Profile Meaford as a wonderful place to choose to live in the Georgian Bay region– affordable and quality of life
• Lower taxes • Support efforts to bring accessible and affordable internet to the area
as key to new business, including working from home • Increase communication and marketing of Meaford’s recreation and
outdoor leisure opportunities for visitors and the community • Enhanced community recreation programs for people of all ages
MEDS Refresh Question 3: What do we need to re-evaluate – e.g. Is our Brand still relevant? The ‘Green Business’ Pillar? Two parts were asked within Question Three, is our Brand still relevant, and is the ‘Green Business Pillar’ still relevant. Brand discussion indicated that there is a need to re-evaluate the brand. Some of the comments are included:
• Increase public involvement – consider options • “The other big apple” not well liked or relevant and controversial,
“Meaford” being Meaford, no need for tag line • Rebrand “the other big apple” – future growth, we are more than
apples • Narrow the focus and reevaluate the alignment of strategic partners
relating to tourism • What are we known for? What do we want to be known for? Do we
need a brand? Is “Meaford” simply the brand? Is there a tag line required?
The feedback indicated that a stand-alone Green Pillar should be reconsidered and it could be incorporated as a function of the three other existing pillars.
• Green business – relevance of pillar: o need to better define and continuing education if going to retain o not relevant and hard to define, o Which green to focus on? Being environmentally responsible?
• Reevaluate pillar in MEDS – too broad • Reevaluate the green business pillars – reposition, broader than green
(healthy place to be) • Just go green internally • Green pillar should not stand alone
The Green Pillar also seemed to be not well understood or defined and was creating confusion. It is for this reason that it is recommended that the Green Pillar be eliminated and MEDS be adjusted to three pillars. MEDS Refresh Question 4: Quick Wins for the Municipality – for the next 3, 6, and 12 months? Some of the recommendations and input is summarized below:
• Four season tourism to generate business in shoulder and low season – raise sales from local residents and “shop local”.
• Accommodation/waterfront – needed • Hospitality and food services – more places to eat needed (like
Thornbury)
• Establish year round farmers’ market • Align with real estate community directly • Create an economic development advisory committee or group that
comes up with an implementation plan with timelines and priorities • Build strategic partnership with RT07 and County • Communication – website needs immediate improvements • Broadband – key priority being led by the County of Grey • Wireless high-speed internet – provide free • Beautify downtown – benches, painting, adding seating • Beautification enhancement of key outlying areas not just urban core. • New brochures and promotional resources for Municipality • Facility /parks signage to enhance current initiatives • Expand services to the local community halls i.e. Library programs • More community recreation programs and activities
Priority Pillars Agribusiness and Tourism Pillars – The Direct Link The agribusiness and tourism sectors of Meaford are important to the local economy. The connection between agribusiness and tourism is significant. Having programs to leverage tourism traffic through agri-tourism is an opportunity for the Municipality of Meaford. According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, “Restoring Canadian Tourism – A Discussion Paper” (updated July 2013):
o In 2012, The Canadian tourism industry was worth $84.8 billion, comprising mostly small and medium enterprises
o Every year, tourism’s contribution to the GDP is worth more than agriculture, fisheries and forestry combined
o Tourism is also one of Canada’s leading job creators… it directly employs more than 600,000 people across the country
Agribusiness has been recommended as one of the two key priority pillars for the next three years. Priorities for agribusiness would utilize the 2011 Agri-Business Foreign Direct Investment Strategy to leverage and create new opportunities for local, regional and Ontario-based businesses rather than foreign direct investment.
The analysis completed in 2011 remains valid today.
• Meaford is home to a diverse population of farmers employing a range of techniques and business models, and producing a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and livestock.
• Over the past few years more of Meaford’s agri-food producers have
been making their way further along the value chain, staking out niche markets and building some local processing capacity. There are several organic vegetable growers, specialty meat producers, and businesses moving into the functional/health food market.
• Many of Meaford’s farms are family-run operations. Most sell their
produce in a variety of ways, from farmgate sales, to local retail stores, to sourcing restaurants, to CSA (community supported agriculture) subscriptions, to selling to specialty stores in the GTA.
Farmers’ Markets – Economic Impact The economic impact of local farmers’ markets is well documented and the Farmers’ Market Ontario report (2011) ‘Economic Impact of Farmers’ Markets’ is attached as Appendix 2. Based on this report, an estimated $792 million (2008) is the provincial economic impact of farmers markets in Ontario. Farmers’ markets have grown in popularity in the last 10 years and are also a strong attractor for visitors. Year round farmers’ markets include Belleville, Brantford, Cambridge, Dufferin Grove (Toronto), Dunnville, Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener, Niagara Falls, Orillia, Ottawa, Hamilton (Ottawa Street Farmer’s Market), Owen Sound, Port Colborne, Sarnia, Simcoe, Toronto (St. Lawrence), Stratford, Thornhill, Thunder Bay, Vankleek Hill, Welland, Woodstock, and St. Jacobs. It is recommended that the feasibility of a year round farmers’ market for Meaford be explored to build on the success of the current seasonal farmers’ market. Applying for funding to assist with a feasibility study or analysis will be reviewed.
Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan – Harbour Village Concept The Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan, as approved in June 2014, outlined a range of infrastructure projects, totaling an estimated $4.6 million, that would be developed as part of the Harbour Village Concept Plan. To achieve these infrastructure and public realm improvements, including significant development on private sector lands, requires this to be a key focus and priority of staff and development partners for the next 10 to 15 years. The priority for the next three years is to begin planning now for appropriate direct municipal investment, how to secure major funding (Provincial and Federal) and working with private land owners to achieve this vision. The estimated budget from the Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan is approximately $4.6 million and is provided in Appendix 3. Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Green Municipal Fund – Brownfields In addition to identified capital budget costs, the report also outlined that specific areas of the waterfront lands have contaminated soil, groundwater and sediment levels above the generic standards. The opportunity to remediate land is available through Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and their Green Municipal Fund Brownfields funding (site remediation or risk management). For this reason, staff has recommended review of this funding and drafting an application for the consideration of Council. General information, FCM’s Green Municipal Fund, is provided in Appendix 4. One of the recommendations is to update the Community Improvement Plan (CIP), to include Brownfield incentives. Staff will be proceeding with a report to Council in the near future specific to the CIP. An expansion of the CIP program in 2015 or future years would require direct financing to facilitate this broader program. The Role of Beautification and Horticulture in Economic Development Building on the momentum from ‘Communities in Bloom’, the BIA downtown investments, and other municipal initiatives to enhance the appearance and beauty of Meaford (especially within the urban downtown core) additional beautification would be beneficial to strengthen Meaford as a welcoming community. It is well known that communities such as Niagara-on-the-Lake attract millions of visitors per year and a key feature of this community is the stunning landscapes and horticultural displays throughout the historic downtown.
It is recommended that an additional investment for a total of $28,000 from the recently approved $50,000 discretionary fund for economic development support expanding horticultural for $5,000 and other amenities in the downtown core for $8,000, as well as improvements to Irish Mountain Lookout for $15,000 which is a signature park and vista for the community and visitors alike. Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group On February 18, 2014 Council approved the creation of the Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group. The recommended terms of reference are provided in Appendix 5 and include the following: The mandate of the Group is to provide a collaborative forum for discussion of economic development ideas, opportunities, and matters of common interest in the Municipality of Meaford. The focus of the Group will be to assist the Municipality of Meaford to identify, and recommend opportunities for effective local and regional economic development initiatives, foster a positive community wide investment image, promote the enhanced quality of life the Municipality of Meaford offers, and enhance the profile of Meaford as an attractive business environment for existing and prospective businesses. The Liaison Group will undertake its work in support of the overall goals and objectives of the Meaford Economic Development Strategy (MEDS). The Liaison Group will be advisory in nature and assist the Economic Development Officer (EDO). It is recommended, the Liaison Group be comprised of representatives of the business community, strategic partners and municipal officials. Up to 10 volunteer representatives would be appointed:
• Agribusiness (1) • Retail (1) • Tourism/Hospitality (1) • Manufacturing/Commercial/Industrial (1) • Business Associations/Other (1) • Real Estate/Development (1) • Health Care/Education sector (1) • Community Organization – Not for Profit, Service Club, Special Events (1) • Community Resident – general (1) • Municipality of Meaford Council (1)
A number of open and informal community meetings could also be held in August and September prior to the formal appointment of volunteer representatives to this group by Council.
Other Initiatives and Strategies – the last 9 months Website Update An update of the web site has been initiated and is underway to provide a site which is more navigation friendly, user friendly and attractive. Below is a screen shot of the draft layout concept:
Community Profiles 2014 A new 2014 Community Profile is currently under development which is anticipated to be finalized by the end of July 2014. This new resource will feature the main reasons to invest in Meaford. Particular emphasis for investment will be to attract new hotel accommodations and new food and beverage services, and restaurants. Staff are currently developing a new profile piece on reasons to move to or relocate to Meaford in our ‘Meaford – A Great Place to Live’ resource. As evidenced by the last few months of real estate sales in the Georgian Triangle, and in particular Meaford, the real estate market in this area is exceptionally strong. Additionally it is reported in a July 7, 2014 online CBC article that cottage prices and recreational properties are experiencing booming sales and are “red hot”. Meaford is a community that is attractive to this investment market. Meaford will be widely promoted across Ontario beginning in August 2014.
Renew Meaford: A New Initiative Based on a program called “reNew Newcastle” and developed in Newcastle Australia, New Tecumseth, Ontario has implemented a dynamic initiative that allows new business owners access to vacant stores with a low rental rate and short term lease. In New Tecumseth a not for profit corporation was created and there was a collaboration between the South Simcoe Arts Council, FOCUS Community Development Corporation and Nottawasaga Futures. The program is being funded by a three-year $185,100 Trillium Foundation grant. ‘Renew New Tecumseth’ finds artists, crafters, entrepreneurs, cultural projects and community groups to use and maintain these buildings until they become commercially rented, viable or are redeveloped. In one year this program has seen the number of empty downtown storefronts decrease by 24%. Staff is currently reviewing how a similar program could be developed in Meaford to address the current vacancy rate and will be working with property and building owners. Tag Line Review Consultation sessions are being organizing to discuss whether a new tag line is necessary to replace “The Other Big Apple”. These sessions were originally anticipated to be completed at the end of September 2014, and the timeline for completion of this project has been revised to approximately mid November, 2014. Marketing and Promotions Significant design and graphic work has been completed by our internal staff and continues to include updating and revising promotional, advertising, and marketing materials with the discontinuation of the tag line ‘The Other Big Apple” on March 24, 2014. Billboard on Sykes Street, Meaford Before: After:
Meaford Guide – 2014 Community Guide
CBS Billboard (east of Hwy 26 By-pass) May – September 2014
Enterprise Bulletin Summer Guide 2014, See & Do Guide (GTTA) See & Do 2014 (Winter)
Ontario Bluewater Visitor Guide 2014
GTTA Office (Collingwood) Promotional Pull-up Banner Backlit Display
Enhancing Community Wide Beautification Leith Welcome sign – flowers added Bognor Bridge – flowers added
Tourism Information Services at Meaford Hall Since April 1, 2014, with the establishment of the Visitor Information Centre at Meaford Hall, the services continue to expand in order to meet the needs of our visitors. A strong focus on the website and social media has commenced, including a new Facebook site launched in early July.
Regional Tourism Partnerships Regional efforts and working in collaboration with partners is essential to facilitate a County-wide visitor strategy. Collaborative efforts have demonstrated that connecting all attractions and reasons to visit provides the exposure that no single destination or place would be able to achieve alone. We are currently active participants and partners with the following organizations: RT07 – Regional Tourism, Region 7 (Provincial) RTMP – Regional Tourism Marketing Partnership (Grey Bruce) Grey County Tourism Apple Pie Trail GTTA – Georgian Triangle Tourism Association Building Place-Based Cultural Tourism for Meaford
In a report prepared for RT07 by PLACES Consulting, Tourism Functional Assessment Report, September 2013, the importance of place-based tourism was further reinforced.
“Place-based tourism is a method of tourism development which uses the unique character of place plus the tourism economy to create stronger places which in turn builds stronger tourism”
The October 2013 presentation by Mr. Steven Thorne “Why ‘Place’ is the Key to Cultural Tourism” at the Culture Grows Here forum (Barrie), highlighted the importance of Place-Based Cultural Tourism (Appendix 6). Mr. Thorne encourages communities to capitalize on a destination’s cultural character and sense of place: its history and heritage, its narratives and stories, its landscape, its townscape, its people. As well he stresses the importance of interpreting and marketing the destination’s cultural character and sense of
place in tandem with its cultural experiences. Within his presentation, Mr. Thorne illustrated these concepts using the Waterloo Region,
“it’s home to a major performing arts venue: The Centre in the Square. It’s home to the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery. It’s also home to an iconic farmers’ market: the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market and to its surrounding Mennonite communities. It’s home to several historic sites of significance – including the birthplace of Prime Minster McKenzie King. And it’s home to a variety of other cultural experiences”.
The Municipality of Meaford is a destination with rich cultural character and cultural experiences to offer. Developing this focus on place-based cultural tourism will be a priority within the tourism pillar. Staff have commenced with a new initiative entitled “Places of Meaford” as an opportunity for community building as well as tourism and visitor engagement attractor that will come from overviewing the tremendous history, and special places of the Municipality of Meaford. This project will include profiling a number of key places and communities and capture their history. The initiative will include a “Places” section on the tourism section of the web site and also include the development of digital resources. As part of the “Places of Meaford” initiative, a photo contest has been launched in July 2014 with 5 categories including Scenery, Architecture, Festivals & Events, Local History and On Vacation in Meaford. Meaford Strategic Plan This report supports the objective of the Municipality of Meaford Vision 2020, particularly with respect to: Goal: Healthy Economy Objective: Implement strategies from MEDS Develop/implement a marketing/branding strategy Goal: Healthy Community Objective: Develop/implement community building strategies Develop/implement a corporate communications strategy
Goal: Customer-focused services
Consultation
Senior Management Team Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs Stakeholder Engagement Sessions Partner Economic Development & Tourism Organizations
Communications Plan
Not Applicable
Conclusion
Economic Development is not a legislated program or mandatory activity for the Municipality of Meaford. Like Meaford, many Ontario and Canadian municipalities have identified economic development as a priority. Promoting economic growth, prosperity and sustainability is critical to ensuring strategic approaches to attract investment, both locally and regionally, diversify the local economy, and grow local assessment through additional tax revenue.
It is recommended that the pillars of the Meaford Economic Development Plan be revised to three pillars: Tourism, Retail and Agribusiness. It is recommended that the priority focus for the Municipality of Meaford’s economic efforts for the next three years be within the tourism and agribusiness pillars. It is also recommended that three projects be funded for a total of $28,000 of the $50,000 from the new discretionary capital reserve fund established for economic development on June 9, 2014.
Appendices (Previously provided)
Appendix 1 – MEDS Workshop Summary September, 2013 Appendix 2 – Economic Impacts of Farmers’ Markets in the Province of
Ontario (Farmers’ Markets Ontario, March 2011) Appendix 3 – Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan Estimated Budget Appendix 4 – FCM Green Fund Municipal Brownfield Information, 2009 Appendix 5 – Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group Terms of
Reference
Appendix 6 – Why ‘Place’ is the Key to Cultural Tourism, Steven Thorne 2013
Respectfully Submitted:
The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford
By-law Number 059 – 2014
Being a by-law to establish and adopt Terms of Reference
for the Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group Whereas by Section 5(3) of The Municipal Act S.O. 2001, C.25 as amended provides that powers of every Council are to be exercised by By-law unless specifically authorized to do otherwise; and Whereas, the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford deems it expedient and necessary to adopt Terms of Reference for The Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group; The Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford enacts as follows: 1. That the Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group is hereby
constituted.
2. That the Terms of Reference, attached as Schedule “A” and forming part of this by-law, are adopted.
3. This by-law shall come into force and take effect upon being passed by
Council.
Read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 28th day of July, 2014.
Francis Richardson, Mayor Robert H. A. Tremblay, Clerk
By-law 059-2014 Page 1 of 5
Schedule “A” to By-law 059-2014
Terms of Reference Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group
1. Mandate The Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group (MEDLG) will provide a collaborative forum for discussion of economic development ideas, opportunities, and matters of common interest in the Municipality of Meaford. 2. Focus The Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group will assist the Municipality of Meaford to identify, and recommend opportunities for effective local and regional economic development initiatives, foster a positive community wide investment image, promote the enhanced quality of life the Municipality of Meaford offers, and enhance the profile of Meaford as an attractive business environment for existing and prospective businesses. The Liaison Group will undertake its work in support of the overall goals and objectives of the Meaford Economic Development Strategy (MEDS). The Liaison Group will be advisory in nature and assist the Economic Development Officer (EDO). The direction of Council on February 18, 2014 is provided in Appendix 1. 3. Term The Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group will be appointed by Council of the Municipality of Meaford consistent with the Council approved Appointment Policy. The term of appointment will correspond to the term of Council and is four (4) years. Vacancies will be filled on an as-needed basis. 4. Liaison Group Composition The Liaison Group will be comprised of representatives of the business community, strategic partners and municipal officials. Up to 10 volunteer representatives shall be appointed:
• Agribusiness (1) • Retail (1) • Tourism/Hospitality (1) • Manufacturing/Commercial/Industrial (1) • Business Associations/Other (1) • Real Estate/Development (1) • Health Care/Education sector (1) • Community Organization – Not for Profit, Service Club, Special Events (1) • Community Resident – general (1) • Municipality of Meaford Council (1)
Non-voting participants: Economic Development Officer Chief Administrative Officer Grey-Bruce Regional Tourism and Economic Development Related Organizations 5. Compensation No compensation shall be made to members of the Meaford Economic Development Liaison Group for their participation. 6. Attendance and Procedures Members shall advise the Recording Secretary of any absences to ensure quorum can be achieved for each meeting. The EDO will serve as the meeting recording secretary. A member of Council, as approved by Council, will serve as Chair. A quorum comprised of more than 50 per cent of appointed members will be required to hold a meeting. In order to maintain a strong level of commitment, members who are absent for three consecutive meetings (without good cause) will be deemed to have resigned. The Liaison Group will work in a collaborative manner seeking consensus. Recommendations shall be formulated for the information of Council and municipal staff.
7. Location of Work All meetings of the Liaison Group shall be open to the public and held in a municipal facility. 8. Frequency of Meetings Meeting notices, agendas and draft minutes shall be circulated to members electronically and posted to the municipal website generally one week in advance. Minutes will be included on the Council Agenda for information. Up to six (6) meetings per year will be held with meetings taking place in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Appendix 1 – Resolution of Council (February 18, 2014) Whereas, Grey County has included in its corporate operating plan 2013- 2015 the stated outcomes that include “enabling economic opportunity and growth, fostering community sustainability and strengthening community partnerships” through activities such as business attraction and retention, working on becoming an intelligent county, expanding tourism, local food and culinary sectors; and Whereas, this Council supports the view that a regional focus on economic development offers more opportunities for local communities; and Whereas, the Municipality of Meaford is privileged to have within our boundaries, resources such as organizations, businesses and talented individuals with the expertise, the knowledge and skills and the willingness to be engaged in developing opportunities for local economic growth; and Whereas, our neighbours including Thornbury and Collingwood are currently utilizing their local talent in this way; Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of the Municipality of Meaford also recognizes the value and importance of engaging local resources to work together with staff and council on identifying and implementing effective economic development initiatives at the local level;
Further be it resolved that staff is hereby directed to:
1) Establish an “Economic Development Liaison Group” consisting of Municipal officials and representatives of: agribusiness, tourism, youth and seniors, rural and urban retail, manufacturing, hospitality and health sectors, with the objective of providing a collaborative forum at which the Municipality and its stakeholders can discuss economic development matters of common interest; and
2) Bring to Council at the earliest convenience, a report which will reflect the work of this liaison group in identifying possible opportunities to translate the high level concepts of our regional partners, Grey County and RT07, into relevant and supportive economic development initiatives at the local, grass roots level.
Date Monday, July 14, 2014
From Darcy Chapman, Director, Financial Services/ Treasurer Denyse Morrissey, CAO
Subject North East Grey Health Clinics Inc. Line of Credit Request
Report No. FS2014-12 Roll No. N/A Recommendation That Committee of the Whole receive Report FS2014-12 for information purposes. Financial Impact Entering into an agreement to provide a Line of Credit to North East Grey Health Clinics would involve the need for legal counsel to review the agreement. As well, a lien would most likely be placed on the assets of the clinic and therefore would need to be registered. Total legal costs are estimated to be in the range of $2,000-$3,500. Providing a Line of Credit interest free would not allow interest or investment income to be recognized. Based on prevailing interest rates, total investment loss could be as much as $35,600 based on current five year guaranteed interest rates if the Line of Credit was provided without charge. If the Municipality forwarded the total pledge in one lump sum it would place an unbudgeted, and therefore unfinanced, expenditure of $200,000 within the 2014 financial year which would have to be funded by reallocating reserve funds established for other purposes. Background On June 23, 2014 North East Grey Health Clinic Inc. (HEGHC) chair, Brian Adamson, made a presentation to Council which included the following:
• to inform Council of the status of the Don Bumstead & Family Medical Centre project,
Report FS2014-12 Page 1 of 6
• to inform Council of the status of fund raising and pledges received to date, and
• to request Council to grant North East Grey Health Clinics Inc. a Line
of Credit to assist in the short term coverage of construction costs during the period that pledges are being realized.
The presentation outlined the requirement for a $465,000 Line of Credit (LoC) to allow the completion of the construction of the facility while future revenues ranging from 3 to 10 years were recovered annually from individuals and businesses within the community that pledged donations. Based on the presentation, the LoC if extended by the municipality to NEGHC would be fully repaid within five years as illustrated below: LoC Draws by October 31, 2014 $465,000 Payment 1, October 31, 2015 -$ 70,000 Payment 2, October 31, 2016 -$ 30,000 Payment 3, October 31, 2017 -$120,000 Payment 4, October 31, 2018 -$120,000 Payment 5, October 31, 2019 -$125,000 Upon conclusion of the presentation, Council directed that staff prepare a report outlining if and how the Municipality might be able to assist with the request. NEGHC Financial Analysis The Municipality was provided the following documentation:
1. Internally prepared financial statements from NEGHC as of May 31, 2014 which included an income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement along with accounts receivable and payable information.
2. 2013 audited statements, prepared by BDO Canada.
3. Detailed projected construction costs and sources of funding available, or required, to complete the building and purchase the required furnishings and equipment along with a five year projection of cash flows highlighting the repayment of the $465,000 LoC.
The financial analysis would indicate that NEGHC is in a stable financial position and therefore potential default is a low probability. Additionally, the Don Bumstead & Family Medical Clinic is the second such venture by the NEGHC illustrating that the board has experience in both fundraising to complete the repayment of capital costs associated with the construction of
the facility and develop revenue streams to fund the estimated expenditures required to cover annual operating expenditures. One Board – Two Clinics Although operating under the overall guidance of the NEGHC, there are significant differences within the structure of the Thornbury and Don Bumstead & Family clinics as it relates to municipal involvement. The Thornbury Clinic is considered a “municipal capital facility” given in large part to the fact that The Blue Mountains (TBM) donated a portion of the lands occupied by the clinic. Secondary to this, TBM pledged $350,000 towards the project paid in advance of construction of the facility. Lastly, NEGHC required a $420,000 LoC to complete the Thornbury clinic which was provided by TBM, interest free, over a five year period. TBM also has a substantial agreement favoring the municipality in the event of default. This in many ways was designed to protect TBM in the event of failure due to the land donation and the designation as a municipal capital facility. The Don Bumstead & Family Clinic does not have the same municipal involvement. The Bumstead family donated the lands and also provided a substantial cash donation. The Municipality of Meaford pledged $250,000 payable in installments over ten years as per an agreement. The agreement stipulated:
• Annual payments would commence after construction was complete • If at any time over the first ten years of operation the clinic ceased to
run, the municipality would recover the donation through the sale of assets if need be.
The Municipality does not have, and does not need, the same type of agreement as TBM given the municipality did not donate the land, are not designating the clinic as a municipal capital facility and had previously protected the donation in the event of failure within the first decade. Outstanding Pledges & Fundraising Shortfall The financial statements illustrate that NEGHC will be in receipt of $523,000 in outstanding pledges over the next 1 to 10 years. The Municipality’s donation of $250,000 is included in this figure and represents almost half of the future monies to be collected. Prior financial statements also suggest that NEGHC has worked hard through the business plans to ensure that fundraising targets were met for the Thornbury clinic. This would provide an indication that the organization has the capability to raise the $260,000 remaining to be pledged for the Don Bumstead & Family clinic.
The municipality is scheduled to forward payment before October 2014 for both the 2013 and 2014 pledge ($50,000) given the project is anticipated to be completed by September. The remaining $200,000 will be paid annually as previously agreed upon with NEGHC. Staff would not support accelerating payment of the remaining outstanding pledge to the NEGHC at this time as the municipality is unable to forward the total pledge in one lump sum as doing so would place an unbudgeted and therefore unfinanced expenditure of $200,000 within the 2014 financial year. If this were to happen, this expenditure would have to be funded by Council approving a reallocation of reserve funds established for other purposes. Can the Municipality Assist? There are certain provisions within the Municipal Act which staff reviewed in assessing this situation. In particular Section 106 which speaks to financial assistance for commercial enterprises and Section 107 relating to general powers to make grants and Section 418 relating to investments. These sections have been provided as Appendix 1. It is staff’s opinion that Council is within their authority to enter into an agreement to extend a LoC. The Municipality would be dealing with a not- for-profit entity that enters into leases not to make money, but instead to offer a service and pay the bills and break even. Section 106 speaks to manufacturing, commercial and industrial enterprises in the context of economic development issues relating to bonusing or waiving of fees. Section 107 specifies that a municipal Council can “guarantee a loan and to make a grant by way of loan and to charge interest on the loan”. Extending this LoC as a repayable grant including an interest rate would be consistent with the provisions of this section. Section 418 specifies what a municipality can or cannot invest in. Although providing funds to NEGHC which could otherwise be invested, the Municipality would enter into an agreement under the framework of section 107 and therefore applicable investment parameters are irrelevant. How wound the Municipality extend an LoC? A legal agreement between the Municipality and NEGHC would have to be drafted in accordance with Section 107 of the Municipal Act and subsequently vetted by legal counsel. Upon finalization of the agreement, the Municipality would forward on payment of the LoC and establish within the financial statements a long term accounts receivable in the name of NEGHC. In doing so, the process
becomes a matter of municipal cash flow and not a direct expense as would be the case with expediting the remaining pledge of $200,000. The Municipality most likely would secure the debt by way of lien on assets and by also using the Municipality’s outstanding pledge as a form of collateral. Given the term of the LoC is 5 years, the money can be considered medium term in that it would not be available for use within a shorter term 24 month cycle or long term investments which are considered greater than 5 years. As of June 30 the Municipality has approximately $2 million in short term investments, $2.15 million in medium term investments and $1.8 million in long term investments. The Municipality’s reserve policy states that general reserves (currently about $3.4M) do not garner interest and any monies are therefore used to offset cash flow needs. Our current investment rates for reserve fund monies range from: 1.25% - Operating Account General Bank Rate 1.42% - 6 month GIC 1.77% - 3 year GIC 2.24% - 5 year GIC 4.12% - 5 year historical One Fund Bond portfolio As well, the current Infrastructure Ontario 5 year fixed lending rate is 2.04%. Based on the repayment schedule suggested by NEGHC, the flowing interest could be levied on the LoC given the Municipality’s lost ability to invest the funds. The total interest charges would be payable over the five year term at the following rates: General Reserve Rate 0.00% $ - General Bank Rate 1.25% $ 19,875 6 Month GIC 1.42% $ 22,578 3 year GIC 1.77% $ 28,143 Infrastructure Ontario 2.04% $ 32,436 5 Year GIC 2.24% $ 35,616 One Fund Bond Portfolio* 4.12% $ 65,509
*Provided for comparison purposes only. Historical performance is not an indication of future potential earnings.
Meaford Strategic Plan This report supports the objectives of the Municipality of Meaford Vision 2020, particularly with respect to: Goal: Healthy Community Objective: Assure community safety, health & wellness Provide effective leadership & governance Develop/implement community building strategies Consultation Senior Management Team Communications Plan Not Applicable Conclusion The Municipality currently has the financial stability to extend a LoC to the NEGHC with the understanding that any agreement must within the provisions of Section 107 of the Municipal Act and that the agreement will be registered on title as a lien against the assets of the NEGHC. Appendices Appendix 1 – Municipal Act Section 106, 107 & 418 Respectfully Submitted: _________________________________ Darcy Chapman Director, Financial Services/Treasurer _________________________________ Reviewed by: Denyse Morrissey, CAO
Municipal Act 2001 relevant sections
Assistance prohibited 106. (1) Despite any Act, a municipality shall not assist directly or indirectly any manufacturing business or other industrial or commercial enterprise through the granting of bonuses for that purpose. 2001, c. 25, s. 106 (1).
Same (2) Without limiting subsection (1), the municipality shall not grant assistance by, (a) giving or lending any property of the municipality, including money; (b) guaranteeing borrowing; (c) leasing or selling any property of the municipality at below fair market value; or (d) giving a total or partial exemption from any levy, charge or fee. 2001, c. 25, s. 106 (2).
Exception (3) Subsection (1) does not apply to a council exercising its authority under subsection 28 (6), (7) or (7.2) of thePlanning Act or under section 365.1 of this Act. 2001, c. 25, s. 106 (3); 2002, c. 17, Sched. A, s. 23; 2006, c. 23, s. 34.
General power to make grants 107. (1) Despite any provision of this or any other Act relating to the giving of grants or aid by a municipality, subject to section 106, a municipality may make grants, on such terms as to security and otherwise as the council considers appropriate, to any person, group or body, including a fund, within or outside the boundaries of the municipality for any purpose that council considers to be in the interests of the municipality. 2001, c. 25, s. 107 (1).
Loans, guarantees, etc. (2) The power to make a grant includes the power, (a) to guarantee a loan and to make a grant by way of loan and to charge interest on the loan; (b) to sell or lease land for nominal consideration or to make a grant of land; (c) to provide for the use by any person of land owned or occupied by the municipality upon such terms as may be fixed by council; (c.1) to provide for the use by any person of officers, employees or agents of the municipality upon such terms as may be fixed by council; (d) to sell, lease or otherwise dispose of at a nominal price, or make a grant of, any personal property of the municipality or to provide for the use of the personal property on such terms as may be fixed by council; and (e) to make donations of foodstuffs and merchandise purchased by the municipality for that purpose. 2001, c. 25, s. 107 (2); 2006, c. 32, Sched. A, s. 49.
Appendix 1 FS2014-12
Investment 418. (1) A municipality may invest in prescribed securities, in accordance with the prescribed rules, money that it does not require immediately including, (a) money in a sinking, retirement or reserve fund; (b) money raised or received for the payment of a debt of the municipality or interest on the debt; and (c) proceeds from the sale, loan or investment of any debentures. 2001, c. 25, s. 418 (1).
Repayment (2) An investment under subsection (1) shall be made repayable on or before the day on which the money is required and any earnings derived from the investment shall be credited to the fund from which the money was invested. 2001, c. 25, s. 418 (2).
Combined investments (3) A municipality may combine money held in any fund and deal with the money in accordance with subsection (1). 2001, c. 25, s. 418 (3).
Allocation (4) Earnings from combined investments shall be credited to each separate fund in proportion to the amount invested from it. 2001, c. 25, s. 418 (4). (5) Repealed: 2006, c. 32, Sched. A, s. 182 (1).
Regulations (6) The Lieutenant Governor in Council may make regulations, (a) prescribing rules for the purpose of subsection (1); (b) prescribing and defining securities or classes of them for the purpose of subsection (1); (b.1) prescribing and defining financial instruments and agreements that municipalities may issue or enter into for or in relation to investments under subsection (1); (c) providing that a municipality does not have power to invest in securities or classes of securities specified in the regulation. 2001, c. 25, s. 418 (6); 2006, c. 32, Sched. A, s. 182 (2).
June 2014
By-law Number 060 – 2014
(Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan Implementation)
Whereas the Council of the Municipality of Meaford deems it in the public interest to adopt Official Plan Amendment #16; and Whereas pursuant to the provisions of Section 17 and 21 of the Planning Act R.S.O. 1990, as amended, Official Plans may be amended by Council; and Whereas the proposed amendment is an amendment to the Municipality of Meaford’s Official Plan to implement area-specific recommendations of the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan; The Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford enacts as follows: 1. Amendment #16 to the Municipality of Meaford Official Plan is
hereby adopted.
2. The Director of Planning & Building Services is hereby authorized to submit Amendment #16 and the supporting documentation to the County of Grey for approval.
3. This by-law shall come into force and take effect pursuant to the provisions of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended.
Read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 28th day of July, 2014.
AMENDMENT No. 16 TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD OFFICIAL PLAN
INDEX PAGE
The Constitutional Statement (i) PART A – THE PREAMBLE Purpose (ii) Basis (ii) PART B – THE AMENDMENT Details of the Amendment 1 PART C – THE APPENDICES
AMENDMENT No.16 TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD OFFICIAL PLAN
THE CONSTITUTIONAL STATEMENT
PART A – THE PREAMBLE does not constitute a part of this Amendment. PART B – THE AMENDMENT consisting of the following text, Schedules and Attachments constitute Amendment No. 16 to the Municipality of Meaford Official Plan. PART C – THE APPENDICES attached hereto do not constitute part of this Amendment. These documents contain background data, planning considerations and record of public involvement associated with this Amendment. (i)
PART A – THE PREAMBLE PURPOSE The purpose of the proposed Official Plan Amendment is to update the Municipality of Meaford Official Plan to reflect recommendations arising from the Municipality of Meaford Waterfront Strategic and Master Plan. BASIS In 2013, The Municipality of Meaford, with the assistance of Dillon Consulting, initiated a Waterfront Strategy and Master Planning process to:
• implement the Meaford Economic Development Strategy recommendations regarding preservation and promotion of the waterfront;
• develop waterfront-specific policy recommendations to guide decision making in the face of future development pressures; and,
• provide the necessary information to update the Meaford Harbour Strategic Plan with consideration to a broader waterfront context.
This process resulted in the development of a preferred concept plan; recommendations for policy updates affecting the urban waterfront area and adjacent land; and, a number of recommendations for potential funding strategies to bring about the updated vision, in accordance with the guiding principles established for these lands. The final preferred concept plan – the “Harbour Village”- was selected as it is believed to provide the “greatest opportunities for creating a balanced mix of uses, tourism activities and economic development in Meaford”. Section 6.2 of the Final Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan (May 2014) outlines a number of policy recommendations which have been incorporated within this proposed Official Plan Amendment. These changes affect lands within the Downtown Core Commercial & Transitional Areas and in the Urban Waterfront & Special Policy Areas adjacent to Georgian Bay and the Meaford Harbour. In addition to text amendments affecting the areas noted above, the amendment also proposes a change to Schedule A-1 of the Plan to reflect the renaming of the Harbour Open Space Area designation to Urban Waterfront Area to be more consistent with the wording in the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan.
(ii)
PROCESS Key dates in the process were:
• Under Section 17 & 21 of the Planning Act, the Municipality held a Public Meeting on July 28th, 2014, Notice having been issued in on July 2nd, 2014
Numerous other formal and informal opportunities for public input were providedthroughout the preparation of the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan. This included public meetings, use of an online PlaceSpeak page, stakeholder interviews and a design charrette. PART B – THE AMENDMENT INTRODUCTORY STATEMENT All of this part of the document entitled "Part B - The Amendment" consisting of the following text, Schedule and Appendices constitute Amendment No. 16 to the Official Plan of the Municipality of Meaford. DETAILS OF THE AMENDMENT The Official Plan of the Municipality of Meaford is amended as shown on the following chart entitled:
DETAILS OF THE AMENDMENT June 2014
1
PART C – THE APPENDICES The following Appendices do not constitute part of this Amendment. The following are included as information only supporting the Amendment:
1) Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan – dated May 2014 2) Resolution of Council – Adoption of WS&MP dated June 23rd,
2014
June 2014 Number Policy
1. TABLE OF CONTENTS
The words “Harbour Open Space Area” after ‘B1.5’ are hereby deleted and replaced with “Urban Area Waterfront”.
2. A3.1.5 The words “Harbour Open Space Area” are hereby deleted and replaced with “Urban Area Waterfront”.
3. B.1.3.1 Is hereby amended by adding the following text as a 8th bullet point reading: “Promote new uses along Bayfield Street that support viability, connection and synergy between the Waterfront and Downtown.”
4. B1.3.3 Is hereby amended by adding the words “including outdoor education centers” after the words ‘Private and commercial schools’.
5. B1.3.5.2 c Is deleted and replaced with the following text: “Hospitality, tourist oriented and waterfront supportive uses that will enhance the pedestrian linkage between the Meaford Harbour and Sykes Street are encouraged. Ground floor residential uses are discouraged on Nelson Street, east of Sykes Street to the water.”
6. B1.3.5.4 Is amended by adding the following text to the end of Paragraph 1, Sentence 1: “however, ground floor residential uses are strongly discouraged along Nelson Street east of Sykes Street and along Bayfield Street between Trowbridge and Parker Streets.” This section is further amended by adding a new clause e) “e) the use does not undermine the objectives of the Urban Area Waterfront designation”
7. B1.3.7 Is hereby amended to read: “Lands to be used for commercial purposes shall be placed in a Downtown Commercial Zone in the implementing zoning by-law.”
8. B1.5 This section is hereby renamed “Urban Area Waterfront”
9. B1.5.1 This section is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:
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“B1.5.1 Objectives It is the intent of this Plan to:
• Recognize the Waterfront for its tourism and recreation opportunities;
• Develop a balanced mix of uses, including recreation, harbour, commercial, natural heritage, open space and harbour support;
• Maintain boat access to boat services and fuel operations in the Old Harbour, as feasible;
• Improve the layout and operations of the New Harbour;
• Attract businesses to Meaford’s Waterfront at the Harbour Village;
• Improve connectivity between the Waterfront, Downtown, and the Georgian Trail;
• Improve aquatic and terrestrial habitats of the Georgian Bay Shoreline and Bighead River mouth; and,
• Implement the recommendations of the Municipality of Meaford Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan, as may be amended from time to time.”
10. B1.5.2 Is amended by adding the words “public and” after the words ‘applies to’ and by adding the words “Urban Waterfront and” before ‘Meaford Harbour’.
11. B1.5.3 Is hereby deleted and replaced as follows: “B1.5.3 Vision for the Urban Area Waterfront “The Municipality of Meaford takes pride in its Urban Waterfront for the exemplary approach and design that encompass the ‘Environment First’ philosophy through sustainable design elements and ecological features, becoming one of the most frequently visited locations on the Georgian Bay. The modest intervention in the Old Harbour acknowledges the decreasing water-level trends, and embraces the existing location of the boat service and fuel operations while providing boat dockage for small boats along designated areas of the east and west harbour walls. The Old Harbour also features reclaimed lands, where feasible, in the Bighead River mouth with fish habitat enhancement measures and fishing piers, as well as the Harbour Village.
5
Number Policy Modification Number
The New Harbour is improved with additional mooring spines and reconfiguration of the docks to expand the number of berths, providing excellent facilities for the boating community of Meaford and beyond. The Coast Guard Search and Rescue Station’s presence is of great value and pride to Meaford’s waterfront lands. The Harbour Village attracts local residents and tourists alike with its shops and restaurants along the west wall overlooking the Bighead River mouth that is animated with anglers and water-based activities on kayaks, canoes and small sailboats. Community fairs and events spill over from the Harbour Village to the extended sidewalks on Bayview Street that are enhanced with street trees, lighting, benches and decorative paving. Nelson Street, is animated with ground level commercial activity and is a key pedestrian corridor from the Downtown to the waterfront and the pedestrian bridge across the river. The Rotary Harbour Pavilion, with striking views to both harbours and the bay, shines as the gathering place for small and large community events. The waterfront is a vibrant space within the Municipality of Meaford and is well connected to the existing urban fabric. The open spaces and beaches along the waterfront back onto natural heritage areas that support a continuous pedestrian trail along the lake, connecting to the Georgian Trail and the Downtown”
12. B.1.5.4
Is hereby amended as follows: By deleting the words “Harbour Open Space Area” after ‘designated’ and replacing them with “Urban Area Waterfront”. By adding the text “shall be permitted until such time that their removal is warranted in order to facilitate implementation of the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan” after the words ‘Limited Recreational Vehicle Site Rentals’ By deleting the word “food” between ‘seasonal’ and
6
‘vendors’ By adding the following text as a final bullet point within the section: “Other uses which support implementation of the Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan and uphold the Guiding Principles for land in the Urban Area Waterfront designation.”
13. B1.5.5 A new Section B1.5.5 “Guiding Principles” is inserted and subsequent sections renumbered accordingly. The new Section B1.5.5 shall read: “The following principles are intended to guide land use and development in the Urban Area Waterfront. Land use decisions should aim to: a) Protect the environment for the benefit of current and future generations. b) Promote a healthy waterfront. c) Promote the urban area waterfront as a gateway and focal open space area. d) Enhance the role of the waterfront as a cornerstone of public open space with a mix of public and recreation-oriented uses. e) Consider the compatibility, access and synergies with the adjacent Special Policy Areas and the Downtown Core Commercial area. f) Protect and enhance lands for boating opportunities. g) Protect and enhance passive waterfront recreation. h) Protect and enhance public access to the waterfront lands. i) Provide safe access through design and minimize community impacts. j) Provide safe, continuous public trail access along the water’s edge. k) Enhance the physical and visual connectivity of the pedestrian circulation and links. l) Promote excellence in design. m) Celebrate Meaford’s heritage. n) Enhance economic benefits.”
14. B1.5.5 (now B1.5.6)
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“B1.5.6 Future Planning It is a policy of this plan to carry out those implementation activities outlined in the Waterfront Strategy & Master Plan, including the preparation of detailed Implementation & Business Plans for the Urban Area Waterfront land use concept plan. Any capital projects or works should be completed in a manner that considers the implications for floodplain management and be done in consultation with the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority.”
15. B1.5.6 (now B1.5.7)
Is hereby deleted and replaced as follows: “B1.5.7 Implementing Zoning By-law Lands designated Urban Area Waterfront shall be placed in an Open Space or Urban Area Waterfront zone, as appropriate, in the implementing zoning by- law. Site Plan control shall apply to the establishment of new uses on the lands.”
16. B1.8.1.1 Is hereby amended by deleting the word “shoreline” between the words ‘on the’ and ‘and immediately’ and replacing it with “Urban Waterfront”.
17. B1.8.1.2 Is hereby amended by adding the following text after the word ‘lands’ in clause d): “and will maintain public access to the waterfront” This section is further amended by adding a new clause f) as follows: “f) the development will support the objectives of the Urban Area Waterfront designation and the Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan, as may be amended from time to time.”
18. B1.8.1.3 Is hereby amended by adding the words “or Harbour Village” between the words ‘core commercial’ and ‘area’ in the final sentence of clause g).
19. B1.8.2.1 Is hereby deleted and replaced with the following text: “B1.8.2.1 Vision for Special Policy Area #2
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Special Policy Area #2 is comprised of five lots which abut the Meaford Harbour and, as a result of this close proximity to the Harbour, have good potential to accommodated open space and small-scale seasonal commercial uses which complement the harbour area. The general open space nature of these lands is intended to act as a buffer to adjacent residential uses, while small-scale seasonal commercial development in this area retains the opportunity for use of these lands in a manner that supports the Meaford Harbour and will assist in making this area an attraction for tourism. In addition to the above uses, low-rise residential uses may be permitted in this area, however the consideration of residential uses on these lands should only occur where all lands within the Special Policy Area are to be planned comprehensively, and where to permit residential development would clearly uphold and support the general objectives of the Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan.”
20. B1.8.2.2 Is hereby deleted and replaced as follows: “B1.8.2.2 Development Principles The following development principles will guide the redevelopment of the Special Policy Area #2 lands: a) The lands will be planned as a primarily open space extension to the Meaford Harbour, providing a definitive boundary to the harbour and acting as a buffer to surrounding residential uses; b) The lands will be used for a suitable mix of small- scale seasonal commercial uses related to the hospitality, tourism and service sectors which shall be generally supportive of the harbour area; c) Uses will be compatible with surrounding residential uses and the lands shall be landscaped to an enhanced standard to further the buffering capacity of these lands to adjacent uses; d) Development will provide pedestrian space and access to the waterfront and will minimize the amount of space used for parking cars; and, e) Any proposed residential use on these lands is to be planned comprehensively and should only be considered where such development would clearly
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uphold the objectives of the Waterfront Strategy and Master Plan.”
21. Schedule A-1 is hereby replaced with an updated Schedule A-1 on which those lands identified as “Harbour Open Space’ have been renamed “Urban Area Waterfront”
22.
See Detail A
G e o r g i a n B a y Legend Urban Living Area
Shoreline
Schedule Boundary
By-law Number 061–2014
Being a zoning by-law to amend Zoning By-law 60-2009 of
the Municipality of Meaford (185 Fraser Street) Whereas Zoning By-law No. 60-2009 placed a holding provision (H1) upon the subject lands; and Whereas the Council of the Corporation of Meaford deems it in the public interest to pass a By-law to amend By-law 60-2009 and remove said holding provision (H1), the requirements of Section 2.5.2 of the Municipality of Meaford Official Plan having now been addressed; and Whereas pursuant to the provisions of Section 36 of the Planning Act R.S.O. 1990, as amended, the By-law may be amended by Council of the Municipality; The Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford enacts as follows: 1. Maps 30 & 31 of Schedule B to Zoning By-law No. 60-2009 is hereby
amended by removing the holding provision (H1) from those lands described as Plan 457, Lot 5 being 185 Fraser Street, in the former Township of St. Vincent, now incorporated as part of Municipality of Meaford and shown more specifically on the attached Schedule “A-1”.
2. Schedule “A-1” and “A-2” and all notations thereon are hereby
declared to form part of this By-law. 3. This By-law shall come into force and take effect upon being passed by
Council, pursuant to the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended. Read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 28th day of July, 2014.
SCHEDULE “A-1” to By-law No.061 - 2014
of The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford Passed on the 28th day of July, 2014
_________________________ _________________________ Francis Richardson, Mayor Robert H. A. Tremblay, Clerk
SCHEDULE “A-2” to By-law No. 061 - 2014
of The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford Passed on the 28th day of July, 2014
_________________________ _________________________ Francis Richardson, Mayor Robert H. A. Tremblay, Clerk
The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford
By-law Number 062–2014
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Site Plan Control Agreement between Carey Homes Inc. And the Municipality of Meaford regarding Plan 457 Lot 5; 185 Fraser Street, in the Former Township of St. Vincent
Whereas by Section 9 of The Municipal Act S.O. 2001, C.25, as amended, grants a municipality the powers of a natural person; and Whereas the Council of the Corporation of Meaford passed By-law Number 26-2009 with respect to designating the whole of the Municipality of Meaford subject of Zoning Control as a Site Plan Control Area pursuant to Section 41 of the Planning Act; and Whereas the Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford deems it expedient and necessary to enter into a Site Plan Control Agreement regarding Plan 457 Lot 5 being 185 Fraser Street, in the former Township of St. Vincent now incorporated as part of Municipality of Meaford, to address those matters set out in Section D2.5.2 of the Municipality of Meaford Official Plan; The Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Meaford enacts as follows: 1. That this Council does hereby authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute the Site
Plan Control Agreement with Carey Homes Inc. attached hereto as Schedule A (The Agreement).
2. That this By-law shall come into force and take effect upon receiving the final
passing thereof. Read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 28th day of July, 2014.
Schedule A
DESCRIPTION OF LANDS
THE MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD SITE PLAN AGREEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1 Covenants by the Owner Section 2 Covenants by the Municipality Section 3 Compliance Section 4 Co-operation Section 5 Binding Effect Section 6 Severability of Clauses Section 7 Save Harmless
SCHEDULES Schedule “A” Legal Description of Lands
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SITE PLAN CONTROL AGREEMENT This Agreement made, in quadruplicate, this day of 2014, in accordance with Section 41 of the Planning Act.
B E T W E E N:
Carey Homes Inc.
THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF MEAFORD
Hereinafter called the "Municipality" WHEREAS Section D2.5.2 of the Official Plan requires the entering into of a Site Plan Agreement prior to the construction of a principal structure or the enlargement, renovation or addition to an existing principal structure on lands that are not accessed by a municipal road; AND WHEREAS the Municipality of Meaford has enacted a By-law to provide for the designation of the lands as a "Site Plan Control Area"; NOW THEREFORE This Agreement Witnesseth THAT in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter contained, the parties hereto hereby covenant and agree as follows: 1. COVENANTS BY THE OWNER The Owner covenant and agree as follows: a) The Owner own the subject lands described in Schedule “A”, attached hereto. b) The Owner shall, at their expense, ensure that this agreement is registered against
title to these subject lands and shall take priority over any subsequent registrations against the title to the subject lands.
c) The Owner shall provide a copy of the registered agreement to the Municipality of Meaford.
d) A building permit that provides for the construction of a principal structure or the
enlargement, renovation or addition to an existing principal structure is not to be issued by the Municipality until this agreement has been finalized and agreed to by both parties.
e) The Municipality does not confirm legal access to the parcel, only that the subject
lands do not front on/obtain access via an improved public road.
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f) The Municipality will not and is not required to maintain or snowplow the unopened, unassumed or private road or street providing access to the subject lands.
g) The Municipality will not take over or assume any unopened, unassumed or private
road or street as a Municipal public road unless it has been built according to the Municipality’s standards in force.
h) The Municipality is not liable for any injuries, losses or damages as a consequence
of the Municipality issuing a building permit for a structure on the subject lands.
i) The Owner shall, prior to the execution of this Agreement, pay all municipal taxes, if they are outstanding.
2. COVENANTS BY THE MUNICIPALITY The Municipality covenants and agrees that it will permit the construction of a principal structure or the enlargement, renovation or addition to an existing principal structure, provided: a) The existing use is permitted or is considered to be a legal non-conforming use by
the Municipality’s zoning by-law; b) All proposed development will comply with the Municipality’s zoning by-law; c) The existing sewage system on the lands (if there is one) is operating in
accordance with current standards and/or all relevant permits and approvals are obtained for a new or upgraded system; and,
d) A potable water supply is available to the lot. 3. COMPLIANCE Any action taken by the Municipality or on its behalf, pursuant to this Agreement, shall be in addition to and without prejudice to any security or other guarantee given on behalf of the Owner for the performance of its co

council agenda closed session – 4:30 p.m. official plan

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