HomeMy WebLinkAboutDSD-2024-266 - Significant Planning Applications, Policy Projects, Affordable Housing Projects and Housing Pledge - Second Quarter UpdateStaff Report
Development Services Department www.kitchener.ca
REPORT TO: Committee of the Whole
DATE OF MEETING: June 24, 2024
SUBMITTED BY: Rosa Bustamante, Director of Planning and Housing Policy / City
Planner, 519-741-2200 ext. 7319
Garett Stevenson, Director of Development and Housing Approvals,
519-741-2200 ext. 7070
PREPARED BY: Rosa Bustamante, Director of Planning and Housing Policy / City
Planner, 519-741-2200 ext. 7319
Natalie Goss, Manager Policy & Research, 519-741-2200 ext. 7648
Janine Oosterveld, Manager Customer Experience & Project
Management, 519-741-2200 ext. 7076
Garett Stevenson, Director of Development and Housing Approvals,
519-741-2200 ext. 7070
WARD(S) INVOLVED: All
DATE OF REPORT: May 29, 2024
REPORT NO.: DSD -2024-266
SUBJECT: Planning and Housing Policy Division & Development and Housing
Approvals Division - Significant Planning Applications, Policy
Projects, Affordable Housing Projects, and Housing Pledge -
Second Quarter Update
RECOMMENDATION:
For Information.
REPORT HIGHLIGHTS:
The purpose of this report is to provide an update of significant development applications, policy
projects, affordable housing projects and significant projects to streamline and remove barriers
as well as the City's housing pledge update. Not all work that is currently being undertaken by
the Planning and Housing Policy & Development and Housing Approvals Divisions is captured
in this report, rather a snapshot of significant work is captured.
Planning staff provide a quarterly update report every March, June, September, and December
of each year of all current significant development applications. It is important to be providing
greater transparency on significant development applications with the community and Council.
The key findings of this report include:
o Since signing the Housing Pledge in March 2023, Kitchener Council has approved
Official Plan Amendment and/or Zoning By-law Amendment applications for projects
which propose 13,704 dwelling units (39.1% of housing pledge), Planning staff
have issued final site plan approval for 3,947 dwelling units and building staff have
issued building permits for 3,558 dwelling units.
o Five initiatives associated with the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) have received a
Council decision: Growing Together, Inclusionary Zoning, Enabling 4 Units, the
*** This information is available in accessible formats upon request. ***
Please call 519-741-2345 or TTY 1-866-969-9994 for assistance.
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Affordable Rental and Co-op Housing Incentives Pilot Program, and endorsement of
the land transaction to donate a City -owned parcel at River Road and Ottawa Street
North to Habitat for Humanity. Three of the other five initiatives are also underway
with various milestones anticipated later in 2024. One initiative is in the early stages
and will see more progress over the coming months.
o In this last quarter, significant work has advanced on Kitchener's Official Plan review
with requests for qualifications (RFQs) issued for a range of consultant services. The
Growing Together East project, the updates to the planning framework for Block Line,
Fairway, and Sportsword Protected Major Transit Station Areas, will launch in mid-
June. With Bill 162, the Get it Done Act, receiving Royal Assent, additional lands
have been added to Kitchener's urban area in southwest Kitchener, allowing work to
progress on the Dundee North Secondary Plan.
o Kitchener's affordable housing incentives are currently supporting seven projects
which will total 716 new affordable housing units in various stages of development
from application to construction.
o Extensive work continues to streamline development approvals, meet provincially
mandated timelines and support excellent customer service with the current priority
as site plan folder updates to prepare for the public portal.
There are no financial implications with this report.
Community engagement is undertaken for each development application and project, which
varies for each.
• This report supports the delivery of core services.
REPORT:
Since December of 2021, Planning staff have provided a quarterly update report every March, June,
September, and December of all current significant development applications. This report also
includes the following:
• Progress and next steps for Kitchener's Housing Accelerator Fund initiatives;
• Progress and next steps for major planning policy projects;
• A summary of development applications that include affordable housing;
• Updates on significant initiatives to remove barriers and streamline processes to support the
development of housing;
• Housing Pledge reporting - Development application data required to be reported under a
new Provincial regulation — Ontario Regulation 73/23 — Municipal Planning Data Reporting.
It is important to be providing greater transparency on significant development applications with the
community and Council. Attached to this report, the Significant Planning Applications Quarterly
Report (Q2 2024) provides a summary of the current Planning applications under review at the time
of the preparation of this report (Attachment A).
The current significant development applications section includes Subdivision, Official Plan
Amendment, and Zoning By-law Amendments that have not received final approval. These are the
bulk of the applications that Planning staff consult with the community on an application specific
basis. Significant development applications include property specific proposals as well as new
greenfield communities (subdivisions). Additional details on the development applications can be
found using the online mapping tool available at www.kitchener.ca/planningapplications.
Kitchener's Housing Accelerator Fund Initiatives
In November 2023 Kitchener received $10.6 (first annual tranche of $42.4) million as part of the
Federal government's Housing Accelerator Fund to help deliver more affordable housing in the
City of Kitchener. Nine action plan initiatives are part of Kitchener's Housing Accelerator Fund and
they include the delivery of:
Page 168 of 198
• Growing Together West: planning framework updates in Kitchener's western protected
major transit station areas;
• Growing Together East: planning framework updates in Kitchener's eastern protected
major transit station areas:
• Growing Together West Inclusionary Zoning;
• Affordable Housing Construction Offset on City -Owned Lands Incentive
• Not -for -Profit Affordable Rental and Co-op Housing Incentive Pilot;
• Enabling 4 Units — additional dwelling unit implementation;
• Strategic land acquisition and supporting infrastructure;
• A climate adaptation plan as an input into Kitchener's new Official Plan; and,
• A housing needs assessment
Attachment B provides a description of each initiative, current status, next steps and target
completion.
Major Planning Projects
There are currently 14 planning projects underway or that have been recently completed spanning
a wide range of topics. These include:
• Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review
• High Performance Development Standards
• Housing for All implementation
• New Official Plan
• Review of Provincial legislation, policies and plans
• Rental Housing, Eviction and Displacement Study
• Tree Conservation Tools Review
• Urban Design Manual Review
• Hidden Valley Secondary Plan
• Growing Together (Major Transit Station Area) Planning Framework review — West PMTSAs
and East PMTSAs
• Dundee North Secondary Plan
• Inclusionary Zoning
• District Energy Business Case
Attachment C provides a description of each project, status, next steps, and target completion.
Development Applications — Affordable Housing
With a strong focus on the housing crisis, this report also includes a summary of 2024 current
projects that include affordable housing that are either under review, received approvals this year to
start construction or are under construction. To address Provincial directives, streamline
development approvals and support excellent customer service, the report also provides an update
on significant process improvements underway in 2024 (Attachment D).
Housing Pledge Reporting
As part of the More Homes for Everyone Act, 2022 (Bill 109), the Planning Act was amended to give
the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing the authority to require municipalities to report
information on planning matters (Section 64). On April 6 2023, the Province implemented Ontario
Regulation 73/23 -Municipal Planning Data Reporting requiring Ontario's largest and fastest-
growing municipalities, which includes the City of Kitchener to report development application
information on a quarterly basis (as per Schedule 2 of the regulation) and additional information on
an annual basis (as per Schedule 3 of the regulation).
The City's quarterly report data includes the following development application types:
• Official Plan Amendments,
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• Zoning By-law Amendments,
• Site Plan Applications,
• Minor Variances,
• Land Severances (Consents),
• Plan of Subdivisions,
• Plan of Condominiums,
• Community Infrastructure and Housing Accelerator Orders, and
• Minister's Zoning Orders
The report data must include the following:
• application identifiers (application ID and address);
• application details, as applicable (date application submitted, date application deemed
complete, application status, date of decision, date of adoption/passing, date of registration,
number of new residential units if registered);
• heritage information for the subject property as applicable (listed under section 27 (3) of the
Ontario Heritage Act, designated to be of cultural heritage value or interest, subject to
easement or covenant under section 37 of the Ontario Heritage Act, within a heritage
conservation district area); and,
• appeal information if applicable (third party appeal, type of appeal, date of appeal, date of
appeal decision).
The data gathered by the Province is being used to measure progress towards various Housing
Supply Action Plan commitments and will also provide the information needed to support informed,
evidence -based decisions around housing and planning policy. The regulation also complements
the Province's initiative of developing standards and achieving consistency for exchange of data
required for development applications.
The City of Kitchener has submitted quarterly development application data to the Province since
June 2023. The Q1 2024 quarterly planning data reports to the Province are attached to this report
(Attachment E).
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT:
This report supports the delivery of core services.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Capital Budget — The recommendation has no impact on the Capital Budget.
Operating Budget — The recommendation has no impact on the Operating Budget.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
INFORM — This report has been posted to the City's website with the agenda in advance of the
Council / Committee meeting.
CONSULT — Significant development application specific engagements are undertaken for Official
Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law, and Subdivision applications. Engagement includes mailing
postcards to property owners and occupants of all buildings within 240 metres of the subject lands,
publishing a newspaper notice when the application is first circulated and when the statutory public
meeting is scheduled, as well as informal community meetings including Neighbourhood Meetings
and/or site walks. A large plain language sign is also posted on the property.
Page 170 of 198
For planning policy projects, community engagement plans are developed and implemented to
ensure fulsome, tailored engagement occurs early and throughout each project at a level
commensurate with the scope of the project.
PREVIOUS REPORTS/AUTHORITIES:
There are no previous reports/authorities related to this matter.
APPROVED BY: Justin Readman — General Manager, Development Services
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A — Significant Planning Applications Quarterly Report (Q2 2024)
Attachment B — Housing Accelerator Fund Projects (Q2 2024)
Attachment C — Significant Planning Projects (Q2 2024)
Attachment D — Affordable Housing and Significant Streamlining Projects (Q2 2024)
Attachment E — Provincial O.Reg. 73/23 Q1 2024 Quarterly Planning Data Report
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Attachment A — Significant Planning Applications Quarterly Report (Q2 2024)
Current Significant Development Applications
Subdivision (SA), Official Plan Amendment (OPA), Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA)
WARD 1
104 WOOLWICH ST
Proposal: Two 3.5 -storey multiple dwellings (stacked townhouses) with 24 dwelling units each (total of 48
dwelling units).
File Number: OP18/007/W/AP
Description: The owner is requesting a Site -Specific Policy to allow
an FSR of up to 0.9.
Application Type: OPA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
File Number: ZBA18/009/W/AP
Description: The owner is requesting to change the zoning
from Agricultural (A-1) to Residential Six Zone (R-6) along with a Site
Specific Provisions to: a) reduce the minimum front yard from 4.5
metres to 1.0 metres, b) eliminate the requirement for Private Patio
Areas for at -grade dwelling units, c) increase the maximum Floor
Space Ratio from 0.6 to 0.9, and d) reduce the required parking from
1.75 spaces per unit to 1.2 spaces per unit.
Application Type: ZBA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
Staff Contact: Andrew Pinnell
Neighbourhood Meeting Date: TBD
Owner: 1238455 ONTARIO LIMITED
Applicant: GSP GROUP INC
Update Since Last Quarterly Report:
No Update. Planning Staff and the Applicant are considering input
provided through the initial circulation.
26 STANLEY AVENUE & 31 SCHWEITZER STREET
Proposal: The Site is proposed to be developed with a residential subdivision consisting of 42 single detached
dwelling lots, 12 semi-detached dwelling lots (total of 24 dwellings) and a 5 -unit street -townhouse block totaling
71 residential units. The Proposed Development will be accessed by a future municipal road connecting to
Stanley Avenue.
File Number: 30T-21201 Description: A residential plan of subdivision consisting of single
detached dwellings, semi-detached dwellings, and townhouse
dwellings, totaling 72 units.
Application Type: SA Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
File Number: ZBA21/19/S/BB Description: To rezone the Site from Residential Four (R-4) and
Residential Five (R-5) to the Low Rise Residential Five (RES -5) Zone
with a Site -Specific Provision to permit a maximum building height of
12.5 metres.
Application Type: ZBA Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
Staff Contact: Brian Bateman Neighbourhood Meeting Date: May 31, 2022.
Owner: Newo Holdings Limited Applicant: GSP Group Inc.
Update Since Last Quarterly Report: No Update. A Neighbourhood Meeting was held on May 31, 2022 and
Planning Staff and the Applicant are considering input provided at the Neighbourhood Meeting.
Page 172 of 198
WARD 3 — NEW APPLICATION
1082-1094 WILSON AVENUE
Proposal: The Site is proposed to be further developed to permit the expansion of a manufacturing facility
and add additional parking.
multiple dwellings. Parkland open space & stormwater management facilities are also proposed.
File Number: OPA24/006/W/TS
Description: The owner is requesting an Official Plan Amendment to
redesignate a portion of the properties from Low Rise Residential to
Business Park Employment.
Application Type: OPA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
File Number: ZBA24/011/W/TS
Description: The owner is requesting a Zoning By-law amendment to
change the zoning from RES -1 to EMP -2 to permit the expansion of
Application Type: ZBA
a manufacturing facility and associated parking.
Application Type: ZBA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
File Number: 30T-16201
accepting and reviewing comments.
Staff Contact: Tim Se ler
Neighbourhood Meeting Date: July 10, 2024
Owner: Colt Canada Corporation
Applicant: GSP Group Inc.
Update Since Last Quarterly Report:
No update. New application.
WARD 5
ROCKCLIFFE DR (FREURE SOUTH)
Proposal: A new community with 471
new residential units including single detached, street townhouses &
multiple dwellings. Parkland open space & stormwater management facilities are also proposed.
File Number: OP16/001/R/KA
Description: To change the designation of the easterly portion of land
to high rise residential, designate a future park area as open space,
and to adjust the limits of wooded areas designated as open sace.
Application Type: OPA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
File Number: ZC16/009/R/KA
Description: To change the zoning from Restricted Business Park (B-
2) to residential and natural heritage conservation zones.
Application Type: ZBA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
File Number: 30T-16201
Description: The plan of subdivision includes single detached, street
townhouses & multiple dwellings along with parkland open space &
stormwater management facilities.
Application Type: SA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
Staff Contact: Katie Anderl
Neighbourhood Meeting Date: TBD
Owner: FREURE DEVELOPMENTS
Applicant: MHBC PLANNING LTD
LIMITED
Update Since Last Quarterly Report: No update. Archeological assessment work continues.
Page 173 of 198
WARD 8
400 WESTWOOD DR
Proposal: To demolish the existing house and create four new lots for single detached dwellings.
File Number: ZBA21/012/W/ES
Description: To rezone the developable portion of the lands to site
Description: Site-specific regulations propose a Floor Space Ratio
specific Residential Four (R-4).
Application Type: ZBA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
to permit 618 parking spaces
accepting and reviewing comments.
Staff Contact: Eric Schneider
Neighbourhood Meeting Date: January 13, 2022
Owner: NASIR BROMAND, ZAKIA
Applicant: IBI GROUP
BROMAND
Update Since Last Quarterly Report:
No update. A Neighbourhood Meeting was held with the community on
January 13, 2022. Planning Staff and the Applicant are considering input provided at the Neighbourhood
Meeting.
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
WARD 9
50 BORDEN AVE S
Proposal: a mixed-use development consisting of two towers (57 storeys and 51 storeys in height) having
1,224 dwelling units and 7,240 m2 of commercial and institutional space.
File Number: OPA23/004/B/KA
Description: Site-specific regulations propose a Floor Space Ratio
(FSR) of 16.1, a reduced rear yard setback, and a parking reduction
to permit 618 parking spaces
Application Type: OPA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
File Number: ZBA22/008/B/KA
Description: Site-specific regulations propose a Floor Space Ratio
(FSR) of 16.1, a reduced rear yard setback, and a parking reduction
to permit 618 parking spaces
Application Type: ZBA
Status: This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
Staff Contact: Katie Anderl
Neighbourhood Meeting Date: June 6, 2023
Owner: Woodhouse Investments Inc
Applicant: IBI Group
Update Since Last Quarterly Report:
No update. This application has been circulated and Planning staff are
accepting and reviewing comments.
Page 174 of 198
WARD 10
22 WEBER ST W
Proposal: A 19 -storey multiple residential building with 162 units, including 25 barrier free units. A total of 24
parking spaces are proposed at grade.
File Number: OPA20/005/W/JVW Description: The applicant is now proposing to amend the
designation to High Density Commercial Residential with a Special
Policy Area in order to permit a floor space ratio (FSR) of 7.8.
Application Type: OPA Status: Under appeal
File Number: ZBA20/013/W/JVW Description: The subject lands are currently zoned Commercial
Residential Three (CR -3) in Zoning By-law 85-1. The applicant is
proposing the same base zone with site specific special regulations
to permit; an increase in height to 19 storeys, an increase in Floor
Space Ratio to 7.8, To require a minimum ground floor fagade height
of 4.5m, to reduce the required minimum landscaped area required
from 10% to 8%, to reduce front and rear yard setbacks, and to
reduce the required on-site parking to 24 spaces, including 8 visitor
parking spaces.
Application Type: ZBA Status: Under appeal
Staff Contact: Garett Stevenson Neighbourhood Meeting Date: Sept. 8, 2021 & March 3, 2022.
Owner: 30 DUKE STREET LIMITED Applicant: MHBC PLANNING LTD
Update Since Last Quarterly Report: Council refused the related Heritage Permit Application on August 22,
2022. This appeal was adjourned. This application has been appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal (formerly
LPAT) which was suspended. The Owner has requested the OLT now schedule another Case Management
Conference to resume this appeal.
Page 175 of 198
Attachment B — Housing Accelerator Fund Projects
Current Housing Accelerator Fund Projects Quarter 2, 2024 Update
CITY-WIDE
Affordable Housing Construction Offset on City -owned Lands
Description: This initiative involves looking for new opportunities to provide lands for below-market rental and
ownership housing and working directly with affordable housing providers to access the lands and collaborate
on the delivery of affordable or supportive housing projects.
Current Status: In April 2024, Council agreed to donate a property at 1035 Ottawa St
IN PROGRESS to Habitat for Humanity to be used as part of the Build Now Initiative
and achieve at least 63 units for affordable home ownership.
Staff are reviewing the City's land inventory to determine additional
viable opportunities to support this initiative.
Next Steps. Staff plan to bring a report to Council on potential options in Q2 2024.
Project Lead: Target Completion: 2026
Rosa Bustamante — Director of
Planning and Housing Policy
Affordable Rental & Co-op Housing Incentive Pilot Program
Description: With the support of Kitchener's Housing Accelerator Fund, this project aims to establish a
financial incentives pilot program to assist with the predevelopment costs of building new not-for-profit
affordable rental and co-op housing units.
Current Status: In April 2024, Council approved this grant program which will formally
IN PROGRESS launch on May 31, 2024.
Next Steps: With the program launch, staff will prepare for receiving submissions
including an information session for potential applicants. Once
applications are received, they will be evaluated and grant funding
awarded to projects that meet the program criteria subject to the
funding allocation.
Project Lead: Target Completion:
Tanya Roberts — Project Manager Q3 2026 Conclusion of the pilot program
Enabling 4 Units
Description: In response to Council's motion at the October 16, 2023 Council meeting, staff are undertaking
a review of zoning bylaw amendments that would enable up to four units on a lot which currently permit a
single detached, semi-detached or street fronting townhouse dwelling for a Council decision in Q1 2024.
Current Status: On March 25, 2024, Council approved an Official Plan amendment
COMPLETE and Zoning By-law amendment to enable 4 units as -of -right city-wide.
The Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendments are now fully in
effect.
Next Steps: With the support of the Housing Accelerator Fund, a staff working
team will support implementation by streamlining processes and
creating simplified resources to support uptake of additional units.
Project Lead: Target Completion: Q3 2024 (including post -decision
Katie Anderl — Project Manager implementation)
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Strategic Land Acquisition and Supporting Infrastructure
Description: This initiative will involve acquiring lands for the purposes of affordable housing development
with a focus on lands within the major transit station areas and working with affordable housing provides to
collaborate on the delivery of affordable housing and necessary related community infrastructure.
Current Status: Staff are reviewing potential opportunity sites that would be satisfy
IN PROGRESS the criteria for affordable housing projects.
Next Steps: Staff will bring a report to Council on potential land acquisition
opportunities in Q3 2024.
Project Lead: Target Completion: Q4 2024
Rosa Bustamante — Director of
Planning and Housing Policy
Climate Adaptation Plan
Description: This initiative includes the development of a climate adaptation plan that will be used in the short
term to inform land use policy updates for the next Official Plan.
Current Status:
The project team has been established as part of the Official Plan
IN PROGRESS
project and a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for consultant support
is currently underway.
Next Steps:
The project team will work closely throughout 2024 and 2025 to
advance work on this initiative.
Project Lead:
Target Completion: Q2 2026
Janine Oosterveld — Manager,
Customer Experience and Project
Management
Housing Needs Assessment
Description: This initiative includes the preparation of a Housing Needs Assessment for the City of Kitchener
which will be used to inform housing -related initiatives and land use policy updates for the next Official Plan.
Current Status:
The project team has been established as part of the Official Plan
IN PROGRESS
project and a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for consultant support
is currently underway.
Next Steps:
The project team will work closely throughout 2024 and 2025 to
advance work on this initiative.
Project Lead:
Target Completion: Q4 2025
Lucas Van Meer -Mass — Senior
Planner (Housing)
WARD 1 — There are no Ward 1 specific projects at this time.
WARD 2 — There are no Ward 2 specific projects at this time.
WARD 3
Growing Together (Major Transit Station Area) Planning Framework Review
Description: Comprehensive review and update of land use, zoning, and urban design guidelines for the
Block Line, Fairway, and Sportsworld Major Transit Station Areas.
Current Status: The project team has been established and is developing a project
IN PROGRESS charter, project milestones and key deliverables.
Next Steps: The project team will conduct public engagement and engage
consultant support through 2024.
Project Lead: Target Completion: 2025
Adam Clark — Senior Urban Designer
(Architecture & Urban Form)
Page 177 of 198
WARD 4 — There are no Ward 1 specific projects at this time.
WARD 5 — There are no Ward 2 specific projects at this time.
WARD 6 — There are no Ward 1 specific projects at this time.
WARD 7 — There are no Ward 2 specific projects at this time.
WARD 8 — There are no Ward 1 specific projects at this time.
WARDS 9 & 10
Growing Together (Protected Major Transit Station Area) Planning Framework Review
Description: Comprehensive review and update of land use, zoning, and urban design guidelines for the 7
Major Transit Station Areas west of the Conestoga Expressway.
Current Status: A report was considered by Committee of Council at a statutory
COMPLETE public meeting on January 29, 2024 where staff recommended a new
planning framework for these 7 protected major transit station areas.
This matter was deferred to the March 18th Council meeting with a
direction to staff to have further dialogue with those that delegated at
the statutory public meeting. Throughout February and early March
meetings were held with landowners and their consultants as well as
the community to better understand concerns and share information.
A supplemental report was considered by Council on March 18th and
Growing Together was unanimously approved by Council.
Next Steps: N/A
Project Lead: Target Completion: Q1 2024
Adam Clark — Senior Urban Designer
(Architecture & Urban Form)
Inclusionary Zoning
Description: Inclusionary Zoning can be used to require new, multi -unit housing developments to include
affordable units. The Region,
Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge are coordinating their approach to
implementing inclusionary zoning
within MTSAs. A portion of this work is being funded through the Provincial
Streamline Development Approvals Funding. This work is being coordinated with Growing Together.
Current Status:
A report was considered by Committee of Council at a statutory
COMPLETE
public meeting on January 29, 2024 where staff recommended an
inclusionary zoning framework for Kitchener's protected major transit
station areas. This matter was deferred to the March 18 Council
meeting with a direction to staff to have further dialogue with those
that delegated at the statutory public meeting. Throughout February
and early March meetings were held with those that delegated which
were members of the Waterloo Region Homebuilders Association
and members of Build Urban. A supplemental report was considered
by Council on March 18th and Inclusionary Zoning was approved by
Council.
Next Steps:
Staff will undertake an economic conditions assessment and report
back to Council by Q4 2024.
Project Lead:
Target Completion: Q4 2024
Tim Donegani — Senior Planner
Page 178 of 198
Attachment C — Significant Policy Projects (Q2 2024)
Current Significant Policy Projects Quarter 2, 2024 Update
CITY WIDE
Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review
Description: Review of Kitchener's Zoning By-law 85-1. Approved in phases with the latest phase (residential
zones) being approved in 2022. Final phase includes specific properties previously deferred.
Current Status: ONGOING Zoning updates in 2023 and 2024 have focused on Major Transit
Station Areas which is occurring through Growing Together.
Next Steps: Final phase includes specific properties previously deferred and
specific geographies.
Project Lead: TBD Target Completion: 2024/25
High Performance Development Standards
Description: Establishing a harmonized high performance development standard (green development
standard) across local area municipalities in Waterloo Region.
Current Status: ONGOING Initial community, development industry and staff engagement
sessions launched this spring to scope theme areas for the first draft
of the standards.
Next Steps: Initial engagement sessions and research will be used to prepare a
first draft expected later this year coupled with engagement.
Project Lead: Target Completion: 2025
Janine Oosterveld, Manager
Customer Experience & Project
Management
Housing for All Implementation
Description: Kitchener Housing for All Strategy was approved in 2020 and identifies actions for the City to
address homelessness and housing issues in Kitchener.
Current Status: ONGOING
An update was provided to Council on the progress of Housing for All
action items in March 2022.
Lived Expertise Working Group
A report is being considered by Committee of Council on June 17th
on the next steps for the Lived Expertise Working Group.
Lodging Homes
Committee of Council considered reports on updates to the Official
Plan and Zoning By-law as well as updates to the Lodging House
Licensing By-law on June 3.
Next Steps:
At this time, pending resource capacity, a second update on Housing
for All actions items is anticipated in 2024.
Lived Expertise Working Group
Pending Council's consideration of the recommendations within the
June 17th report, staff will commence with the administration of the
next iteration of the Lived Expertise Working Group.
Lodging Homes
Pending Council's consideration of the recommendations for updates
to the Official Plan, Zoning By-law, and Lodging House Licensing By-
law, an education and implementation plan will commence in Fall
2024.
Project Lead:
Target Completion: 2024 for Lodging Homes; 2024 for LEWG pilot
Natalie Goss, Manager Policy &
program; 2025+ for Housing for All implementation.
Research
Garett Stevenson, Director
Development and Housing Approvals
Page 179 of 198
Housing for All Implementation
Partial Housing Accelerator Fund Initiative - New Official Plan
Description: A comprehensive review of Kitchener's Official Plan to, among other things, align with changes
in Provincial legislation, policies, and
plans and the Region of Waterloo's Official Plan Amendment No. 6.
Current Status:
A series of RFQs were issued in May for consultant services for a
ONGOING
variety of background studies and community engagement that will
inform Kitchener's new Official Plan.
Next Steps:
A community working group is expected to be established in the next
quarter with an initial meeting in early Fall. Also in the fall will be the
community launch of the New Official Plan project with in person and
online opportunities for discussion.
Project Lead:
Target Completion: 2026
Tim Donegani — Senior Planner
John Zunic — Senior Planner
Provincial legislation, policies, plans review
Description: A significant number of Provincial legislative and policy changes have occurred throughout 2022
and 2023. The Planning Division has formally added this review to their workplan due to the significant time
and resources that have been required to review changes and provide comments.
Current Status: ONGOING Since the March 2024 quarterly report the following Provincial
legislative and policy changes were posted:
• Bill 185, Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, 2024
• Proposed Provincial Planning Policy Statement
• Bill 200, Homeowner Protection Act, 2024
Project Lead: Target Completion: N/A
Planning Management Team
Rental Housing, Eviction and Displacement Study
Description: In January 2023 Council directed that staff look at tools that are within Kitchener's jurisdiction
with respect to rental replacement and other tools and advocacy opportunities for the transitioning of displaced
residents.
Current Status: ONGOING A report is being considered by Committee of Council on June 17th
that includes a proposed Rental Replacement By-law and necessary
amendments to Kitchener's Official Plan and Demolition Control By-
law.
Next Steps: Pending Council's consideration of the June 17th report,
implementation of Kitchener's Rental Replacement By-law will occur.
Project Lead: Target Completion: Q2 2024
Lucas Van Meer -Mass — Senior
Planner (Housing)
Tree Conservation Tools Review — Phase 2 1
Description: With Council's approval of Kitchener's tree canopy target in January 2022, Council directed staff
to review existing tree conversation processes within the City to explore opportunities for strengthened
measures. This work includes a review of Kitchener's Tree Bylaw and Tree Conservation Bylaw, tree planting
requirements within the Development Manual, and Tree Management Policy.
Current Status: In April 2023, Council authorized a second phase work to further
ONGOING evaluate specific enhancement opportunities to existing tools and
processes. The project team has initiated work on some of the
identified specific enhancement opportunities, including creating a
notification procedure for planned tree removals on private
properties, updating tree protection standards to align with best
practices, and targeted refresher and education of tools through an
initial webpage update.
Page 180 of 198
Tree Conservation Tools Review — Phase 2
Next Steps: Development of a comprehensive work plan for phase 2 is underway
including a community and stakeholder engagement plan.
Additionally implementing updated tree protection standards and
notification procedures for private tree removal, and further
developing a strategy for other identified enhancement opportunities.
Project Lead: Target Completion: 2024
Gaurang Khandelwal — Planner
(Policy)
Urban Design Manual Review — Part C
Description: A comprehensive review of Kitchener's Urban Design Manual which has been occurring in
phases. The last phase was approved
in 2019. Final phase includes the urban design standards Part C).
Current Status: ONGOING
Internal review of existing standards to understand opportunities for
improvement.
Next Steps:
Draft updates to urban design standards and stakeholder
engagement.
Project Lead:
Target Completion: 2024
Gaurang Khandelwal — Planner
Target Completion: Q3 2024
(Policy)
WARD 1 — There are no Ward 1 specific projects at this time.
WARD 2 — There are no Ward 2 specific projects at this time.
WARD 3
Hidden Valley Secondary Plan
Description: Development of updated land uses and Official Plan policies, including technical studies to
inform them to implement the land use master plan approved by Council in 2019.
Current Status: IN PROGRESS
Technical studies are being finalized. A community open house was
held on May 30 to share and obtain input on draft land use.
Next Steps:
At this time, Council consideration of Official Plan and Zoning By-law
amendments to implement land use and zoning changes as a result
of the land use review are expected in August 2024
Project Lead:
Target Completion: Q3 2024
Carrie Musselman — Senior
Environmental Planner
Housing Accelerator Fund Initiative - Growing Together East (Major Transit Station Area) Planning
Framework Review
Description: Comprehensive review and update of land use, zoning, and urban design guidelines for the
Block Line, Fairway, and S ortsworld Major Transit Station Areas.
Current Status: An information report was provided to Committee of Council on June
TO COMMENCE Q2 2024 17, 2024 to launch Growing Together East.
Next Steps: An initial phase of community engagement will occur mid June
through July.
Project Lead: Target Completion: 2025
Adam Clark — Senior Urban Designer
(Architecture & Urban Form)
Page 181 of 198
WARD 4 and WARD 5
Dundee North Secondary Plan
Planning Framework Review
Description: Development of a
new secondary plan (land use, transportation, natural heritage system,
complete community) for lands in south-west Kitchener. The project will also fulfill the requirements for an
environmental assessment and will recommend infrastructure to service the area.
Current Status: ONGOING
Bill 162, Get It Done Act, received royal assent in May 2024. Bill 162
Growing Together West in March 2024. The Official Plan
included additional lands within southwest Kitchener in its urban
amendments are with the Region of Waterloo for their approval. The
area. City staff have been working with the landowners in the Dundee
Zoning By-law amendment for the Protected Major Transit Station
North and southwest Kitchener area on advancing work on this
areas is under appeal.
Secondary Plan. An updated project charter has been prepared that
Work with the Region on the approval of the Official Plan
includes the additional lands that will now form part of the Dundee
amendments.
North Secondary Plan. A report to Committee of Council on June 17
With Council's approval in March 2024, city of Kitchener's portion of
is seeking Council authorization to sole source additional work to the
work on Growing Together West is complete.
consultant retained for the Dundee North Secondary Plan.
Next Steps:
City staff will continue to work with landowners to advance work for
lands within southwest Kitchener. A full community, stakeholder, and
Indigenous engagement process will occur
Project Leads:
Target Completion: Q2/Q3 2025
Carrie Musselman — Senior
Environmental Planner
Gaurang Khandelwal — Planner
(Policy)
WARD 6 — There are no Ward 6 specific projects at this time.
WARD 7 — There are no Ward 7 specific projects at this time.
WARD 8 — There are no Ward 8 specific projects at this time.
WARDS 9 & 10
Housing Accelerator Fund Initiative - Growing Together West (Protected Major Transit Station Area)
Planning Framework Review
Description: Comprehensive review and update of land use, zoning, and urban design guidelines for the 7
Major Transit Station Areas west of the Conestoga Expressway.
Current Status:
Council approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for
ONGONG
Growing Together West in March 2024. The Official Plan
amendments are with the Region of Waterloo for their approval. The
Zoning By-law amendment for the Protected Major Transit Station
areas is under appeal.
Next Steps:
Work with the Region on the approval of the Official Plan
amendments.
Project Lead:
With Council's approval in March 2024, city of Kitchener's portion of
Adam Clark — Senior Urban Designer
work on Growing Together West is complete.
(Architecture & Urban Form)
Housing Accelerator Fund Initiative - Inclusionary Zoning
Description: Inclusionary Zoning can be used to require new, multi -unit housing developments to include
affordable units. The Region, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge are coordinating their approach to
implementing inclusionary zoning within MTSAs. A portion of this work is being funded through the Provincial
Streamline Development Approvals Funding. This work is being coordinated with Growing Together.
Current Status: Council approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments
ONGOING creating an inclusionary zoning framework for Kitchener's Protected
Major Transit Station Areas. The Official Plan amendment is with the
Region of Waterloo for their approval. As part of Council's approval,
Council directed that staff report back by December 2024 with
Page 182 of 198
Housing Accelerator Fund Initiative - Inclusionary Zoning
recommendations on whether inclusionary zoning requirements
should continue to be advanced in the timeframe, with the Market
Area categorizations, and in the manner that was approved in March.
Next Steps:
Staff are working to retain a consultant to assist with the report back
to Council by December 2024. Additionally, staff are working with the
Region on the approval of the Official Plan amendment. Staff are also
working on an inclusionary zoning implementation guide and a
memorandum of understanding with the Region to coordinate
administrative roles and responsibilities.
Project Leads:
With Council's approval in March 2024, the City of Kitchener's portion
Tim Donegani — Senior Planner
of work on Inclusionary Zoning is complete.
Elyssa Pompa - Planner
Target Completion of Council report back — Q4 2024
District Energy Business Case
Description: Pre -feasibility study endorsed by Council in 2020. Current phase of work includes conducting
detailed technical and financial feasibility to connect new/existing public and private buildings in downtown to
a system primarily powered by geothermal energy.
Current Status: Consultant work on pre -feasibility has been completed. In November
ONGOING 2023 Council directed work on the next steps for district energy.
Next Steps: Consultant terms of reference are being prepared for the next phase
of work.
Project Lead: Target Completion: Q3 2024
Tim Donegani — Senior Planner
Page 183 of 198
Attachment D — Affordable Housing and Projects to Streamline Approvals (Q2 2024)
2024 Active Affordable Housing Development Status
Address and
Total Units
Affordable
Status
City incentives
applicant
Units
83-97 Victoria St N,
44
44
Site plan approval
Project manager
The Working Centre
granted, building permit
Affordable rental housing
issued
incentives (planning and
building application fees
waived
82 Wilson Ave,
123
32 (net
Under construction
Affordable rental housing
Region of Waterloo
(existing)
increase)
incentives (planning and
building application fees
waived
49 Queen St N,
41
41
Under construction
Affordable rental housing
Indwell Community
incentives (planning and
Homes and St. Peter's
building application fees
Lutheran Church
waived
137 Queen St S,
57
21
Clearing conditions of
Project manager
St Paul's Lutheran
site plan approval,
Affordable rental housing
Church
shoring permit issued,
incentives (planning and
Committee of
building application fees
Adjustment application
waived)
approved
210 Duke St E,
100
40
Final site plan approval
Project manager
Knossos Housing
issued, foundation
Affordable rental housing
permit issued, full
incentives (planning and
building permit under
building application fees
review
waived)
47 Charles St. E
160
160
Conditional site plan
Project manager
House of Friendship
approval granted
Affordable rental housing
incentives (planning and
building application fees
waived)
15-105 Mooregate
378
378
Conditional site plan
Project manager
Cres
approval granted
Affordable rental housing
incentives (planning and
building application fees
waived
Total New Units:
780
716
Projects to Streamline Development Approvals
Site Plan folder updates
Description: Updating the file management software (AMANDA) for site plan applications to continue
process improvements and prepare for the public portal which will allow applicants to submit applications,
make payment and monitor progress.
Current Status: Underway
A multi -disciplinary team of development review staff are working with the technology project manager to
identify workflow improvements to integrate into folder updates.
Next Steps:
Page 184 of 198
The working team will be testing folder updates once complete later this summer. Once testing is complete,
the updated folders will go live for use on site plan applications with updated procedures and training to
support staff.
Project Lead: Tanya Roberts, Project Manager (Planning)
Completion date: Q4 2024
Page 185 of 198
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