The Township Official Plan (OP) was approved by Council at their August 25 meeting, and will now be submitted to the District of Muskoka for approval. We are pleased to report the Township Official Plan is a progressive document that will support economic development and affordable housing in our communities while enhancing environmental protection. We commend the Township Council for creating a good plan for the future land use.
LOBA has been participating throughout the Official Plan consultation process. In accordance with LOBA’s goals, our focus has been lobbying for a balanced approach to shoreline development that protects the natural shoreline. We have advocated for improved environmental protection and the entitlement of waterfront property owners to redevelop their properties. Our submissions are linked below, and our delegation to the Township meeting on August 25 can be found on the Township YouTube channel starting at 18:15 in the video.
Climate change and development pressures mean more must be done to protect and preserve the natural coolness, abundant fish and animal wildlife, good water quality and beauty of Lake of Bays. The Township OP responds by increasing the natural shoreline vegetation buffer and building setback general standard from 20 to 30 metres, a scientifically advisedimprovement that LOBA has supported since the Township first proposed it. At the same time, the Township OP also recognizes the many waterfront properties with a smaller buffer and closer setbacks by providing owners with the right to redevelop and improve their properties, in a respectful manner consistent with OP policies. Maintaining this allowance for non-complying properties has always been a priority for LOBA.
The new Township Official Plan conforms with the draft District OP, which sets a 30-metre setback for all District waterbodies to ensure equal protection. The draft District Plan states that, to protect water quality, “the precautionary approach, where there is uncertainty about environmental risks, will be continued and all lakes and rivers in Muskoka will be afforded the highest standard of protection”. It is important that the District OP also recognizes the right to redevelopment of non-complying properties.
Under the new Township OP, the shoreline of Lake of Bays will have the same good but workable level of environmental protection as planned for other lakes in Muskoka.
LOBA submissions regarding the Township OP Review:
Through education, advocacy and engagement, our mission is to foster a healthy natural environment, responsible waterfront development, a thriving community, and a Lake of Bays shared respectfully and safely by all.
