I have reflected on Schedule…

I have reflected on Schedule 10 of Bill 66. These comments are based on my experience as a Registered Professional Planner in Ontario.

The appropriateness and planning merits of Schedule 10 of Bill 66 will not be demonstrated without knowing and understanding the detailed criteria for implementation [s. 34.1(2)2]; and the prescribed purpose of the bylaw [s. 34.1(5)]. Otherwise, the details of the implementing Regulations.

An important uncertain component of section 34.1 is whether the Minister will abide by the provincial interest when considering the proposed open-for-business planning bylaw. The proposed section 34.1 is silent on the Minister's and Cabinet's responsibility.

The Minister, in consideration of a proposed open-for-business planning bylaw, shall have regard to matters of provincial interest under section 2 of the Planning Act, and his or her decision shall be consistent with provincial planning statements and shall conform with all provincial plans, in effect on the date of the decision, according to section 3(5) of the Planning Act.

One of the purposes of the Planning Act, under section 1.1 (c) is to "integrate matters of provincial interest in provincial and municipal planning decisions".