Delegation to Township on
Planning, Long Docks, and Public Education
At the Township Planning Committee meeting on June 27, 2023, LOBA continued its advocacy of a balanced approach that allows development provided the shoreline is preserved.
We asked Council that, when making variance decisions under the Development Permit By-law, they ensure compliance with the criterion that “the natural waterfront will prevail with built form blending into the landscape and shoreline”. LOBA pointed out the intrusive impact of some development applications has been underestimated, and that shoreline vegetation buffers should always be a priority. Also, regarding any requested longer dock applications, we asked applicants be required to provide measured and surveyed water depths to justify any such intrusion out into the lake.
As planning standards can be hard to understand, LOBA asked the Township to put out plain language public education materials. The goal is to increase awareness and encourage compliance.
Our delegation was well received by Council, which asked Township staff to report back on longer docks and public education.
LOBA wants to continue to partner with the Township – Mayor, Councillors, and staff – to ensure the lake and shoreland remain beautiful and environmentally sustainable for generations to come.
READ: LOBA's delegation submission
WATCH: LOBA’s delegation at the Council Planning meeting - delegation starts at 1:08:16
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