HEDDY SOROUR
CARLETON PLACE — Carleton Place council tackled a range of issues this week, including the Franktown Road Secondary Plan, long-term water and wastewater rates, and a proposal for a commemorative veterans’ crosswalk.
Franktown Road Secondary Plan discussed by Carleton Place Council
At a public meeting on the Franktown Road Secondary Plan, consultants from JL Richards outlined a vision for the 25-hectare neighbourhood bordered by Highway 7, Franktown Road, McNeely Avenue and existing homes to the north.
The plan proposes land-use policies for housing, open space, transportation and services. One recommendation, a 20-metre collector road connecting McNeely to Franktown, would cut through Phase Two of the Coleman Subdivision, a move opposed by the developer.
“The secondary plan doesn’t provide much justification for this change,” said Phillip Osterhout, counsel for the developer. “There’s no rationale for the need for a connection in that location.”
The subdivision agreement has already been registered with local roads and lots defined, Osterhout said. But others argued the neighbourhood was still undeveloped when the agreement was signed, and higher densities now require stronger connectivity.
“There isn’t going to be a stitch of green space back there,” said Coun. Randell. “Since we’re going to develop it, let’s all sacrifice a little bit and do what’s best for everybody — including your client.”
Reviewing water and wastewater costs over the next decade
Carleton Place Council also reviewed a 10-year water and wastewater rate study from Watson and Associates on Aug. 26.
Consultant Nancy Neale recommended a 1.95 per cent annual increase, noting that as growth adds new users, costs can be spread more widely.
Treasurer Trisa McConkey said the forecast aligns with past budget assumptions. “Nancy’s presentation just confirmed that staff are making good assumptions and that the level of funding we’re recommending is sufficient,” she told Carleton Place Council.
Carleton Place Council will need to approve the increases and direct staff to review the study every five years, with annual checks by the treasurer to ensure revenue remains adequate.
The province requires municipalities to fully recover water and wastewater costs from users. Carleton Place’s rates remain slightly below the county average.
Veterans’ crosswalk proposal presented to Carleton Place Council
Carleton Place Council also supported a proposal from the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 192, to install a commemorative veterans’ crosswalk at Beckwith and Franklin streets.
“The design has two soldiers standing guard, with the Carleton Place stag shield and the words ‘Lest We Forget,’” said Rev. David Andrew. “Incorporating the stag will make it unique to Carleton Place.”
The Legion will cover all installation and maintenance costs. The town must still formally approve the use of its shield, but staff will work with the Legion on the project.
Keep up to date on Carleton Place news here.
Watch the full council meeting on their Carleton Place Town Hall Facebook page.
