Innisfil opposing "Low Density Residential" on border
by Michelle Minnoch

Although the City of Barrie plans to build on the north side of Mapleview Drive, east of Yonge Street, The Town of Innisfil rejects their Official Plan Amendment regarding the plans to build "Low Density Residential" housing in the area.

Council approved a recommendation to endorse the Minutes of Settlement between the Town of Innisfil, City of Barrie and 161263 Ontario Inc., regarding the City of Barrie's OPA No. 75 and the Town's appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board.

The Town did not object the re-designation from "General Commercial" to "Residential", as the City stated their position that they have a shortage of residential land. The Town did object lower density housing being developed, as it goes against the Provincial Policy Statement.

"The City of Barrie is out of land and are bending to the pressures of developers," remarked Councilor Lynn Dollin.

It is the Town's position that the change from "Medium Density" to "Low Density" housing would not provide adequate and the appropriate density of residential uses. In Staff Report PDS-010-07, the Town states the "deletion of Medium Density housing contravenes the Provincial Policy Statement and is not supported by principles of good planning".

The Town would like to see more houses with 15 metre frontage.

Upon meeting with the Town, the Applicant has agreed revising the document, allowing for 40 medium density street town house units.

An OMB hearing regarding the matter will be held on February 5 for approximately two days.