Mayor Steve Hammell called the public meeting to order at 9:46 a.m. He stated that the purpose of the public meeting was to consider a proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z-2022-064 for the Paisley Inn.
Daniel Kingsbury, Planner for the County of Bruce, attended the meeting. He noted that the application proposes an amendment to the Municipality’s Zoning By-Law to permit a 13.7 metre building as well as to permit more than 50% of the ground floor area to be used for residential space. If approved, the amendment will allow for a new commercial and residential four-story structure that will include 35 apartment and townhouse units at 604 Queen Street South in Paisley.
Planning staff intend on making a recommendation on the proposed amendment at a later date after agency comments have been received, most notably from the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority and Bruce County Transportation & Environmental Services. The proposed development also needs to address the Municipality’s Official Plan which limits residential density to 48 units per hectare.
There may be some requirements to upgrade the existing infrastructure to ensure it is able to support this plan.
Mr. Kingsbury reviewed the Staff Report with Members of Council.
The Mayor asked Members of Council if they had any questions.
Councillor Greig noted that he would prefer a site specific Local Official Plan Amendment.
Deputy Mayor Davis also felt that there should be a site specific Local Official Plan Amendment and encouraged the increased density to avoid the destruction of farmland.
Councillor Kanmacher asked about the original height to what is proposed.
Councillor Dudgeon asked about the height and density provisions. He asked if the Fire Department has the necessary equipment for a building of this height. The Fire Chief noted that Arran-Elderslie does not have an ariel apparatus for this height of structure, but does not have an issue with this proposed building as Saugeen Shores has an ariel apparatus through mutual aid.
Councillor Dudgeon also asked about the commercial portion of the property. The applicant noted that there will be office spaces available on the Queen Street Side.
Councillor Bell stated that he supported the application and likes the design.
Councillor Kanmacher asked about the existing infrastructure in the area and if it need to be upgraded. She also asked about making the two municipal streets one-way streets.
The Mayor asked if the applicant or agent were present and wished to make a submission.
Don Scott, Cuesta Planning, Planner for the Applicant, noted that this proposal addresses housing issues, intensification and is on municipal services. It increases the economy of the business district of Paisley. He feels it is a downtown commercial designation rather than a residential development and feels it does not need a Local Official Plan Amendment.
The Mayor asked if any members of the public wished to make a submission either in favour or opposed to the proposed application.
Emma Cubbit, architect for the project, introduced herself. Her goal is to replicate the historic building as best as possible.
Kevin Kanmacher asked if there is consideration for a cross-walk on Queen Street for the increase in density.
Emily Craddock noted that she supported the project.
Diane Williams had concerns regarding the windows looking into her back yard and would like to be able to see the plans.
Jim Craddock noted that traffic will be a problem.
The Clerk confirmed that no written submissions had been received in relation to the application.
Members of Council and the public were provided a final opportunity for questions prior to the closing of the public meeting.
No further questions were raised and the Mayor declared the public meeting closed at 10:27 a.m.
Subsequent to further discussion, Council passed the following resolution: