Thank you for allowing me to…

Thank you for allowing me to review the proposed changes. I am a municipal planner with 25 years dealing directly with consents and variances. I'm not too sure if the proposed would in fact speed up the processes. Most variances for development are greater than 10% setbacks. The smaller applications are typically homeowners with minor changes.

I think one change in the past which helped process was the ability to delegate to staff. Consents delegated to staff reduced processing times and still allowed for municipal review. I am a firm believer that this can be the same for variances.

Why not look to have delegated authority to approve 'minor' variances to residential development with 10 units or less. That would be in line with the site plan process and provide flexibility for smaller multiple family development. A 10% reduction in a setback of a dwelling would not require notice or signage however, it should still require the review and sign off of staff to ensure that the site remains functional for the intended use. An automatic reduction may trigger issues such as driveway access to rear yards, front yard parking in the driveway and in some cases eave overhangs.

If this process is delegated to staff then we can review it and determine that the reduction will not result in any further non-compliance and in our view meet the 4 tests. An option in going this route may be to open it up to the ability to grant up to 25% of the requirement.

Why not consider additional provisions which are typically sought after for residential development with 10 units or less, with the above-mentioned process.

- Lot Coverage
- Density
- Accessory Uses
- Parking Space Dimensions
- Decks and Patios
- Building Height (to accommodate roof design or increased height to obtain height in basement for additional units)
-Lot Area and Lot Frontage to address infill severances, subject to providing evidence that the lot is developable and in keeping with the general development of the neighbourhood.
- Outdoor Amenity Area reduction if additional indoor living amenity minimum is provided.

Any development containing 11 or more units may result in impacts on adjacent lands due to height, parking, functionality. This development is subject to site plan control and variances of any kind can be addressed during that time.

On a side note. I do think the provisions should change to permit a Site Plan Control Application and Zoning By-Law and Official Plan Amendment to be processed at the same time. This would greatly cut back on the processing times and will provide a while package approach when dealing with the development. Council or Planning Approval Authorities will be able to address all applications dealing with the development while the public can have a better understanding of the overall development.

This process will also force a developer to have all their information together under the combined application process. Preconsultation is strongly encouraged and consultation with staff and authorities is needed to ensure the application submission is complete with minimal changes.

Thank you again to the opportunity to review and comment.