The Chair provided information regarding the appeal process and invited oral submissions from the public.
There were approximately 12 members of the public in attendance.
Wilfred Day, 2504-300 Croft St, stated that losing the potential of commercial development required careful consideration. He requested Council to avoid residential growth that strips commercial investment. He noted that he had provided written comments regarding his concerns, which included the lack of enrollment in our schools, lack of housing options for families, and lost income from commercial investment. He further inquired about how many full time jobs would be generated from this development. He further inquired about other potential sites where the developer could build a similar development.
Ed White, 51 Mill St South, stated that it was the responsibility of Council to represent the residents of Port Hope, and he was unclear as to how the model that the proponent was suggesting would work for the residents of the community. He requested further clarity regarding consideration of affordable housing units integrated into the development so that all seniors would have an opportunity to have safe, secure housing.
John Bickle, 4709 County Road 2, stated that there were other sites that the proponent could build that were not zoned as industrial land. He further raised concerns regarding traffic, and the lack of sidewalks in the area.
Louise Ferrie-Blecher, 4773 Lakeshore Road, inquired about whether third parties would be allowed to appeal the notice of decision following recent provincial legislation changes. She advised that she agreed with the comments regarding mixed use of housing and commercial zones. She further raised concerns regarding the amount of truck traffic in the area, and the importance of addressing appropriate zoning. She also raised concerns with respect to the lack of sidewalks in the area, and traffic safety.