We stand with OBIAA and…

We stand with OBIAA and their comments below:

Bill 23 may fundamentally change the municipalities and communities role and responsibilities in determining the place where they play, live and work. Without being able to protect the authenticity of a neighbourhood it limits a municipalities ability to connect to their past, interpret their history and see the benefits to the local economy by attracting both visitors and residents. in a holistic and efficient way that reflects local realities.

The very nature of an area could be destroyed if there is no local authority or consultation around the demolition and conversion of properties - residential, commercial and heritage. Additionally, this may result in the loss of thousands of heritage properties across Ontario.

There will be limited incentive to list buildings proactively unless it is anticipated that they are under threat of demolition or development. Rather than being proactive with listings, municipalities will now have to be reactive.

The loss of this nature could very well destroy the fabric of the main street community and it’s economic viability. It is often this heritage and unique nature that makes the area an economic and tourism draw.

One resource could be to support municipalities to implement Downtown Heritage Districts (similar to Cobourg, Collingwood, Port Hope, Cambridge and Peterborough). Or amend Bill 23 to allow the main street character to be taken into consideration as worthy of consideration in reviewing new housing site plans. As mentioned the heritage aspects are often richest in our downtowns and by implementing Heritage Districts it will at least allow protection over these heritage attractions.