LOBA and Township Official Plan Review, Spring Newsletter and more ....

NewsFlash

March 21, 2025

LOBA Advocates for Shoreline Protection in Township Official Plan Review

LOBA is actively participating in the Township’s Official Plan review process. In the two consultation sessions to date, we have advocated for a balanced approach to development that protects the natural shoreline. Township Council recently received a report from their consultants and LOBA was glad to see the highlighting of the following issues of importance to LOBA’s members:

Value in a lack of development, an undeveloped environment, or untouched nature that seasonal and year-round residents appreciate.
Clearer policies to address redevelopment and additions to existing cottages within waterfront area.

Need for strong policies which encourage the preservation of shoreline vegetation and tools to implement and enforce best management practices.

Standards for small- and large-scale resort development in waterfront areas to encourage economic and environmental sustainability.

Additional residential units in rural or built-up communities which offer “gentle density” to avoid rural sprawl and make efficient use of available municipal (e.g., water and wastewater) services.

LOBA will continue to participate in the Township’s Official Plan consultations. Any input from members would be gratefully received at info@loba.ca.

Read LOBA's letter to the Township>

Have you read the

Spring 2025

Current Connection newsletter?

You'll find great articles on Septics, Turtles, Wildfire Preparedness, Greetings from District Chair Jeff Lehman and Mayor Terry Glover, and an update from LOBA President Paul Gleeson.

Read the issue>

Check out previous issues>

Water Levels Watch

With the advent of Spring and melting snow, it's time to be aware of water levels.

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has added a Flood Watch bulletin within the area of the North Branch of the Muskoka River and on the Moon River (Bala Reach). The bulletin is in effect until Friday, March 28, 2025.

The Township of Lake of Bays is primarily within the Muskoka Watershed and a Flood Watch means that a potential for flooding on these watersheds exists.

Know what to do before, during, and after a flood to stay safe. Learn more on Ontario's Floods page.

For the latest information on flooding forecasts, visit Ontario's Flood Forecasting and Warning Program.

For more information, please read the full Watershed Conditions Statement.

Key highlights of the update:

Housekeeping Amendments: References to the repealed Roads Licence Agreement Program have been removed from the policy.

Reduction in Land Acquisition Fees: The land acquisition fee for purchasing road allowances containing private roads or driveways has been reduced from $1.00 per square foot to $0.28 per square foot.

Moratorium Lifted: The 60-day moratorium issued February 11, 2025, for the Road Purchasing Program has been withdrawn and property owners can now apply to purchase Township-owned road allowances that are being used or intended to be used as private roads or driveways.

Property owners interested in purchasing a Township-owned road allowance containing a private road or driveway can begin the application process by arranging for a pre-consultation with the Township’s Land & Agreements Coordinator. To review the updated policy and the application, visit Lakeofbays.on.ca

Relevant Documents

A.D-2.9 Road Allowance containing a Private Road/Driveway Closure Procedures

For more information, contact: engage@lakeofbays.on.ca

LOBA Involvement

LOBA representatives met with Township staff and elected officials and lobbied on behalf of our members on this issue. Read LOBA's January 13 letter to the Township in response to the Future of the Roads License Agreement Program report.