Elgin parkland rezoning raised debate over future housing options, recreation space and consultation requirements
Rideau Lakes council has voted to move forward with the process of rezoning township-owned land in Elgin for potential future parkland use, despite concerns from some councillors about public consultation, location suitability and limiting future development options.
During the May 11 committee of the whole meeting, Coun. Paula Banks introduced a motion directing Development Services staff to begin a zoning bylaw amendment for municipally owned lots on Harry Seeley Drive.
The lands are currently zoned Rural (RU). The proposed amendment would change the designation to Open Space (OS), allowing parkland and recreational uses.
Banks said the proposal had support from local committees and residents, noting the idea had been discussed through the Community Enhancement Committee and Parks and Recreation Committee process.
But Mayor Arie Hoogenboom opposed the proposal, arguing the site was not suitable for parkland and should remain available for future housing opportunities.
“In my view, the highest and best use for this property remains affordable housing,” Hoogenboom said.
The mayor also questioned whether adequate public consultation had taken place and suggested the decision should be left to the next council given the approaching municipal election.
“These are the kinds of decisions that should be left to the next council, given the fact that we’re only four or five months away from that,” he said.
Coun. Debbie Hutchings supported the proposal, saying the land was originally intended for recreation purposes and could provide accessible green space for nearby seniors.
“I think it’d be lovely for the seniors to walk across and enjoy,” Hutchings said about their interactions with kids who potentially use the park. “It was given to be recreation by a family.”
Coun. Marcia Maxwell questioned whether residents living near the site, particularly seniors across the road, had been consulted directly before council considered the rezoning request.
Banks responded that a second motion involving Community Enhancement Committee feedback had been delayed because public consultation would already be required as part of the zoning amendment process under the Planning Act.
Coun. Jeff Banks said he supported hearing from the public but did not believe the matter should be postponed until after the next election.
“We’ve got a job to do, so let’s get it done,” he said.
Council ultimately approved the motion by recorded vote. It will come back to council for final approval.
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