Oakville gets $790,000 for Bronte upgrades from developer in settlement
Published July 28, 2022 at 4:45 pm
The Town of Oakville has reached a settlement with developers of a proposed 15-storey building at the corner of Lakeshore Rd. and East.
The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) approved a settlement that will see developers construct a 10-storey mixed-used building instead and make a payment of $790,000 to the town to be spent on local improvements within the Bronte area.
The negotiated settlement is in line with the Livable Oakville Plan.
“Oakville grows more livable with this decision that sticks to our unanimous Official Plan,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton. “The funds achieved through the use of the bonusing tool will enhance community infrastructure in the Bronte area for all residents to enjoy. ”
The original application from the developer for 15-storeys was appealed to the OLT by the developer in January 2022.
Oakville Council authorized the settlement at a meeting earlier this year on May 2. Members of the public attending the meeting supported the settlement.
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Conforming to the policies of the Oakville’s Official Plan, the revised development allows for consideration of up to 10-storeys if community benefits were provided in exchange for height above six storeys and the development was otherwise considered appropriate for the area.
“Through public engagement and adhering to the Official Plan, the town was able to deliver a successful outcome for Bronte area residents,” said Ward 1 Regional Councillor Sean O’Meara.
“When the bonusing funds for community benefits are provided to the town, Council will decide the enhancement initiatives the funds will be put towards to make the Bronte area an even more exciting place to live and visit.”
Policies of this nature were authorized under the former “bonusing” provisions of section 37 of the Planning Act which expire in September 2022.
The additional funding must be used for benefits in the Bronte area for matters such as enhancements to parkland, streetscapes, public art and other matters set out in the Official Plan.
“This settlement moves us closer to the town’s vision for Bronte area as a vibrant and thriving neighbourhood. Residents have been waiting for some time to see the decision from the OLT,” said Ward 1 Councillor Beth Robertson.
“This is great news for our community and want to thank the many active voices from the neighbourhood that helped inform our approach.”
The funds will be received when the developer receives an above-grading building permit. How best to use the funds will be determined by Town Council at a future budget meeting.
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