Director Valentine provided Committee with a brief introduction to Staff Report P2025-05 noting that Housing Development Coordinator, Claire de Souza is involved in the project by way of reviewing the planning applications, but that she is not part of the preliminary design process.
Senior Planner Nathan Wukasch provided Committee with a review of the County of Simcoe Affordable Housing Project: Preliminary Design for 29 and 45 Birch Street. Senior Planner Wukasch reviewed the background of the project noting that Council approved the lands of 29-45 Birch Street as a high priority site for the development of affordable rental housing. Senior Planner Wukasch reviewed the development proposal; Council’s conditions; design compatibility, and level of affordability.
Senior Planner Wukasch confirmed Staffs participation in the RFP process for the design and build and confirmed the continued collaboration between the Town and the County. Senior Planner Wukasch confirmed next steps and noted that additional opportunities for public engagement and project refinement will be provided to the public.
Brad Spiewak, Director Community Housing with the County of Simcoe provided Committee with background information on the project noting the County initiated Request for Proposal process, compliant bids received and rationale for evaluation criteria.
Director Spiewak provided an overview of the project description and a review of the modular pre-fabricated structure. Director Spiewak provided a rendering of the rear yard amenity area; the preliminary design of the ground level; and a review of the various unit sizes. Director Spiewak reviewed the draft site plan and construction standards and provided Committee with estimated timing for construction and the County’s communications plan.
Councillor Potts opened the floor to comments from the public.
Helen Bull resident of 60 Birch Street addressed Committee noting that the property is on a floodplain; that consideration should be made to keep the hedge to provide landscaping privacy; and that the new dwelling will be right in her view. Helen Bull requested clarification on how many acres the parcel of land is; that there is concern regarding light pollution; that there is not enough parking spaces; that Staff should consider angle parking; and clarification on what the term ‘in transition’ means.
Brian Wilkinson resident of 29 Birch Street addressed Committee noting concern with the windows and accessing the outside.
Judy Sheppard, resident of 323 Birch Street spoke noting that although the current property is declining, it does allow for air, space and light. Judy Sheppard requested clarification on parking; noted that the rendering is not compatible with the neighborhood; that there is a preference for red brick; and that the material used should be consistent with the area. Judy Sheppard requested confirmation that the modular housing is Canadian and not being brought in from the United States.
Wendy McKenzie resident of 190 Second Street addressed Committee noting that she is in agreement that the structure should be red brick and that the cedar hedges around the perimeter should remain to assist with rain water absorption and privacy. Wendy MacKenzie requested clarification on the set back of the property and asked if the current tenants are to pay the same rent that they are currently paying now.
Jack Vanderkooy, resident of 30 Waterfront Circle and Chair of the Affordable Housing Task Force spoke noting that the Task Force is in support of the project as it will assist with the critical affordable housing need. Jack Vanderkooy noted that the modular design is environmentally sustainable and will allow for quick construction.
Vanessa Parnell resident of 29 Birch Street spoke noting that she is in favour of the design and that easy access to the outside is important for tenants with pets. Vanessa Parnell noted that she is currently in a 3 bedroom unit and requested clarification on the size of the largest unit.
Christine Ciccone resident of 24 Beech Street addressed Committee requesting confirmation on what kind of lighting will be used to illuminate the parking lot; what actions are going to be taken to mitigate noise of people locking and unlocking their cars; that the garbage will be contained in the north-east corner of the property and clarification on the exact height of the building.
Director Valetine and Director Spiewak provided a high-level response to various questions confirming the size of the property; clarification on the term ‘transition area’; a review of the Town’s parking requirements; the status of the current residents and plan for transition; that the public information center will include landscaping plans; that the lighting will be dark sky compliant; that stormwater and greenspace have been taking into consideration; and confirmation that additional details regarding the project can be found on the County’s website.
Councillor Potts closed comments from the public.
Committee members expressed their support of the project and thanked Staff and residents for their comments and concerns.