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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPSI Minutes - 2022-03-09Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee Minutes March 9, 2022, 6:00 p.m. Electronic Meeting Present: Councillor D. Chapman Mayor B. Vrbanovic Councillor S. Davey Councillor D. Schnider Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock Councillor J. Gazzola Councillor B. loannidis Councillor M. Johnston Councillor S. Marsh Councillor C. Michaud Councillor P. Singh Staff: D. Chapman, Chief Administrative Officer M. May, General Manager, Community Services and Deputy Chief Administrator V. Raab, General Manager, Corporate Services J. Readman, General Manager, Development Services J. Lautenbach, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services D. McGoldrick, General Manager, Infrastructure Services L. MacDonald, City Solicitor B. Rowland, Director, Corporate Communications and Marketing R. Bustamante, Director of Planning N. Goss, Manager of Policy and Research B. Bateman, Senior Planner R. Kelly-Ruetz, Planner A. Fusco, City Clerk D. Saunderson, Deputy Clerk S. Goldrup, Committee Administrator 1 1. Commencement The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee held an electronic meeting this date, commencing at 6:00 p.m. 2. Consent Items 2.1 None. 3. Public Hearing Matters under the Planning Act (6:00 p.m. as advertised) 3.1 Comprehensive Review of the Zoning By-law (CRoZBy) Stage 2b - Applying New Residential Zones on Properties - DSD -2022-088 The Committee considered Development Services Department report DSD -2022- 088 dated February 11, 2022, recommending approval of City -initiated Zoning By-law amendment ZBA22/003/COK/RK to By-law 2019-051, and that applications for minor variances shall be permitted subject to the Zoning By-law Amendment application. It was noted that the Committee was in receipt of written submissions by Roger and Sandy MacGlynn, Alex Vandersluis, Ron Giesler and Paul Britton. R. Kelly-Ruetz presented to the Committee regarding the evolution of zoning in the City of Kitchener and provided a summary of the Comprehensive Review of Zoning By-law (CRoZBy) Stage 2b — Applying Residential Zones. R. Kelly-Ruetz noted that the proposed By-law modernized the City's Zoning and better complied with Official Plans, legislation, and planning priorities. R. Kelly-Ruetz highlighted the consolidation of the previous nine Residential Zones to seven, supporting the demand for gentle density through providing for multiple units in low-rise residential neighbourhoods, and the public engagement undertaken by the City. R. Kelly-Ruetz reviewed key issues, including the 2% or 900 properties facing more intensive zoning changes. Further, R. Kelly-Ruetz explained the purpose of the NCH -1 Residential Zone to conserve significant natural features across the City and more accurately reflect the development potential of those properties. N. Goss noted that the Committee could defer specific properties' Zoning where they found it necessary. R. Giesler spoke on behalf of the residents of the Woolner Trail Community in opposition to the re -zoning of 155 Woolner Trail and requested the Committee consider retaining the property as parkland and greenspace. R. Giesler spoke to the land's educational, recreational, and potential archeological value. In response to questions from the Committee, R. Giesler confirmed his knowledge that the City had to purchase the land to repair the creek and affirmed his belief E the lot is a key site in Kitchener's parkland system. R. Giesler further discussed equity in parkland throughout the City and the need for consultation with local indigenous groups. J. and G. Burkholder spoke in opposition to the proposed NCH -1 Zoning of their property and stated concerns regarding the public engagement process, restriction to the potential use of their property, and impact to resale value. In response to questions from the Committee, the delegations confirmed they were not aware of any restrictions on development when they first purchased the land. L. Kotseff stated their opposition to the re -zoning of 155 Woolner Trail and their belief that the portion of land was important to the Grand River and surrounding areas, maximized public access and parkland along the Grand River. Further, the delegation stated their concern about impacts to recreation, flooding, soil movement, and runoff. T. McLaughlin, Thomasfield Homes, spoke regarding the history and redevelopment of 658 Stirling Ave South and requested that the Zoning be maintained at Residential 2b. D. Woolner stated their opposition to the re -zoning of 155 Woolner Trail and their concerns regarding the impact of future development on the natural and heritage features of their nearby property. Further, they spoke to the potential residential opportunities and their concern that re -zoning will impact the restoration efforts. A. Vandersluis, Schlegel Urban Developments, requested the AGR -1 Zoning be deferred as it relates to the lands outside of Dundee North known as the SKPA Activa lands and the adjoining parcel commonly known as Schlegel Bayer lands, pending the conclusion of the ongoing Regional Official Plan review process. J. Graf -King stated their opposition to the NCH -1 Zoning and expressed concerns regarding the public engagement process, restrictions to a property's use, impact to property values, and the stigma associated with properties holding a "heritage" related Zoning. Further, the delegation spoke to the need for granny suites or alternative housing and discussed their opposition to limitations on constructing accessory dwelling units, sheds, or swimming pools due to the NCH -1 Zoning. V. and D. Balzer stated their opposition to the NCH -1 Zoning and shared concerns regarding the restriction of future development, such as accessory dwelling units. Paul Britton, Activa, requested the AGR -1 Zoning be deferred as it relates to the lands outside of Dundee North known as the SKPA Activa lands and the 3 adjoining parcel commonly known as Schlegel Bayer lands, pending the conclusion of the ongoing Regional Official Plan review process. D. Andrews stated their opposition to the NCH -1 Zoning and noted concerns regarding the potential impact to their property's value, the enjoyment of their property, and the constraint on future development. C. and J. Dixon stated their opposition to the NCH -1 Zoning and described concerns regarding the limitations to their property's use. H. Costa stated their opposition to the NCH -1 Zoning and concerns regarding the limitations to their property's use and the potential impact on property value. In response to questions from the Committee, staff confirmed that an addendum report would be prepared for the March 21, 2022, Council meeting, that approximately 10% of the total parcel at 155 Woolner Trail was being discussed to be re -zoned, and that existing parkland amenities would not be affected by the proposed re -zoning or future development. Staff explained the City had previously purchased the lot for creek restoration and that a portion of the property was designated for future resale at the time of its purchase to recoup costs. Staff further discussed existing parkland and access points along the Grand River within the City of Kitchener. Additionally, R. Kelly-Ruetz discussed the NHC-1 Zone boundaries created using existing Tree Preservation Plans, potential boundary refinements, the use of the word "heritage" when referring to the conservation of natural features, and the proposed zoning of 155 Woolner Trail. Mayor B. Vrbanovic moved staff's recommendation contained in Development Services Department report DSD -2022-088 regarding the Comprehensive Review of Zoning By-law (CRoZBy) Stage 2b — Applying Residential Zones. Councillor S. Marsh moved and later withdrew a motion that this matter be referred to a future meeting of Council to provide staff the opportunity to consider renaming the NHC-1 zone and remove references to 'heritage'; and, for staff to work with residents in the area of Driftwood Drive, Yellowbirch Drive, and Waldau Woods Park to explore NHC-1 Zone boundary refinements. Councillor D. Chapman moved that the proposed Zoning of 155 Woolner Trail be referred to the March 21, 2022, meeting of Council to provide the opportunity for further consultation with staff. Councillor Chapman's referral motion was then voted on and was lost. M Councillor B. loannidis moved that staff's recommendation be amended to approve Zoning By-law amendment ZBA22/003/COK/RK to By-law 2019-051 (Comprehensive Review of Zoning By-law (CRoZBy) Stage 2b — Applying Residential Zones), in the form shown in the "Proposed By-law", attached to Staff Report DSD -2022-088 as Appendix A, save and except for the following: 1. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Trussler Road; 2. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Driftwood Drive; 3. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Yellow Birch Drive; 4. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Stonehenge Place; 5. The NHC-1 Zoning for 106 Robertson Crescent; 6. The NHC-1 Zoning for any other properties within the city who do not want to have the designation report to city staff prior to ratification at the March 21, 2022, meeting of Council; 7. The AGR -1 zoning be deferred as it relates to the lands outside of Dundee North known as the SKPA Activa lands and the adjoining parcel commonly known as Schlegel Bayer lands, pending the conclusion of the ongoing Regional Official Plan review process. Councillor loannidis's amendment was then voted on and was carried, on a recorded vote, with Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors S. Davey, D. Schnider, J. Gazzola, P. Singh, C. Michaud, K. Gal loway-Sealock, M. Johnston, D. Chapman, and B. loannidis voting in favour; and, Councillor S. Marsh voting in opposition. Mayor B. Vrbanovic moved the motion be further amended to direct staff to prepare an addendum to Development Services Department report DSD -2022- 088 for the March 21, 2022, Council meeting responding to the submission from the Region of Waterloo addressing the following questions: 1. Does the Region's request for zoning permissions on specific properties align with the Official Plan? 2. How do current zoning permissions on these specific properties compare to proposed and requested zoning permissions? 3. Overall, are the requests for zoning permissions on these specific properties considered a minor or major change from existing Zoning? Mayor B. Vrbanovic's amendment was then voted on and was carried. G� On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic it was resolved: "That City -initiated Zoning By-law amendment ZBA22/003/COK/RK to By- law 2019-051 (Comprehensive Review of Zoning By-law (CRoZBy) Stage 2b — Applying Residential Zones), be approved in the form shown in the "Proposed By-law", attached to Development Services Department report DSD -2022-088 as Appendix A, save and except for the following: 1. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Trussler Road; 2. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Driftwood Drive; 3. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Yellow Birch Drive; 4. The NHC-1 Zoning for all properties on Stonehenge Place; 5. The NHC-1 Zoning for 106 Robertson Crescent; 6. The NHC-1 Zoning for any other properties within the city who do not want to have the designation report to city staff prior to ratification at the March 21, 2022, meeting of Council; 7. The AGR -1 Zoning be deferred as it relates to the lands outside of Dundee North known as the SKPA Activa lands and the adjoining parcel commonly known as Schlegel Bayer lands, pending the conclusion of the ongoing Regional Official Plan review process; That in accordance with Planning Act Section 45 (1.3 & 1.4) applications for minor variances shall be permitted for lands subject to Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA22/003/COK/RK; and further, That staff be directed to prepare an addendum to Development Services Department report DSD -2022-088 for the March 21, 2022, Council meeting responding to the submission from the Region of Waterloo and addressing the following questions: 1. Does the Region's request for zoning permissions on specific properties align with the Official Plan; 2. How do current zoning permissions on these specific properties compare to proposed and requested zoning permissions; and, 3. Overall, are the requests for zoning permissions on these specific properties considered a minor or major change from existing zoning." Carried 4. Discussion Items 4.1 890-900 King Street West Official Plan Amendment OPA21/005/K/BB and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA21/008/K/BB - DSD -2022-089 The Committee considered Development Services Department report DSD -2022- 089 dated February 2, 2022, deferred from the March 7, 2022, meeting, recommending adoption of Official Plan Amendment Application OPA21/005/K/BB; approval of Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA21/008/K/BB; and, that applications for minor variances shall be permitted for lands subject to the Zoning By-law Amendment. The Committee recessed at 9:35 pm and reconvened at 9:45 pm, chaired by Councillor D. Chapman with all members present. A. Sinclair, MHB Planning, presented to the Committee regarding the proposed development and highlighted the need for intensification and rental units within the City. A. Sinclair explained considerations that the building's proposed height and design was chosen to mitigate shadowing and spoke to access to public transit, amenities on the ground floor, and car -share services. Jodie Wacko, Stewart Fraser, and Paul Fereday, representatives of Cantiro Group, further addressed the Committee regarding the proposed development's access to a transit and employment node along King Street. J. Wacko described potential partnerships with the Grand River Hospital Foundation to provide visiting patients to access hotel suits within the building and a local organization to provide 5% of units at affordable rent, per CMHC guidelines. In response to the Committee's questions, the delegations confirmed the building would remain as a rental and spoke to considerations for the types of units offered while balancing the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the proposed building, accessibility, shadowing and building height, shared spaces, and tenant wellbeing. The delegates stated that they would commit to a 20 -year lease to provide affordable studio units at the CMHC rates. The delegations further confirmed they would obtain a survey to ensure accurate measurements of Dodds Lane and investigate a first -floor stepback in response to concerns received regarding Dodds Lane from members of the public for consideration at the March 21, 2022, Council meeting. In response to questions from the Committee, staff indicated two locations on King Street where residents might perform protected u -turns to access the building. Additionally, staff discussed parkland equity, signage improvements for 7 Dodds Lane to communicate the shared -use laneway with no exit, and stated the laneway must be useable at all times for residents and businesses for the application to be approved through the site plan process. On motion by Councillor S. Marsh it was resolved: "That pursuant to Section 25.4.11 of Chapter 25 (Council Procedure) of the Municipal Code, the proceedings of the Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee this date shall be allowed to continue beyond 11:00 p.m. to conclude matters as listed on the agenda." Carried On motion by Councillor S. Davey it was resolved: "That Official Plan Amendment Application OPA21/005/K/BB for Cantiro King General Partner Ltd. requesting Special Policy Area 20 to permit a mixed-use development with a Floor Space Ratio of 10.1 on the parcel of land specified and illustrated on Schedule `A', be adopted, in the form shown in the Official Plan Amendment attached to Development Services Department report DSD -2022-089 as Appendix "A", and accordingly forwarded to the Region of Waterloo for approval; and That Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA21/008/K/BB for Cantiro King General Partner Ltd. be approved in the form shown in the "Proposed By-law" and "Map No. 1"; and That in accordance with Planning Act Regulation 45 (1.3 & 1.4) that applications for minor variances shall be permitted for lands subject to this Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA21/008/K/BB; and further, Pursuant to the Planning Act, section 34(17), Council changes the proposed by-law, attached as Appendix B to DSD -2022-089, as amended by Council, and where Council has determined that no further notice is to be given in respect of the changes to the proposed zoning by-law amendment." Carried 5. Information Items 5.1 None. 6. Adjournment On motion, this meeting adjourned at 11:00 p.m. Sarah Goldrup Committee Administrator