New updated content: 2022-11-21 10:30:13
Ontario Bill 23, Building More Homes Faster
Almost hand in hand with the new OP, the provincial government unveiled Bill 23, an omnibus bill modifying many Acts, regulations and policies to turbocharge residential construction. The only good part of the bill from an environmental perspective is that it contains measures to promote gentle intensification, and in particular the elimination of exclusionary zoning for single detached dwellings. This however is accompanied by an all-out attack on protection for wetlands and greenspaces, and reductions in parkland dedication. Many other provisions have negative impacts on green building standards, inclusionary zoning, protections for renters and City finances. The bill is massive and comment periods and forums are very restricted and convoluted. Paul presented a table summarizing the schedule for submissions and comments for the various parts of the bill. The GA will address those parts of the bill that most impact on greenspace but will work collaboratively with all members of POP to provide representations on the full scope of the proposed changes.
Bill 23 protest
On November 15, the AG participated in a rally organized by the POP group outside City Hall. It was held immediately after the inauguration event of the new City Council and a number of returning and new councillors attended. Overall a good crowd showed up on short notice, with effective speakers and good media coverage. The opposition to this Bill is widespread and deeply felt.
New updated content: 2022-11-21 10:30:13
Ontario Bill 23, Building More Homes Faster
Almost hand in hand with the new OP, the provincial government unveiled Bill 23, an omnibus bill modifying many Acts, regulations and policies to turbocharge residential construction. The only good part of the bill from an environmental perspective is that it contains measures to promote gentle intensification, and in particular the elimination of exclusionary zoning for single detached dwellings. This however is accompanied by an all-out attack on protection for wetlands and greenspaces, and reductions in parkland dedication. Many other provisions have negative impacts on green building standards, inclusionary zoning, protections for renters and City finances. The bill is massive and comment periods and forums are very restricted and convoluted. Paul presented a table summarizing the schedule for submissions and comments for the various parts of the bill. The GA will address those parts of the bill that most impact on greenspace but will work collaboratively with all members of POP to provide representations on the full scope of the proposed changes.
New updated content: 2022-12-19 11:41:53
Ontario Bill 23, Building More Homes Faster
The GA has submitted comments on elements of Bill 23 in accordance with the consultation schedule and participated in a rally organized by Acorn Ottawa along with many of its POP partners. Two remaining parts of the Bill that are of concern to us are open for comment, with a deadline of December 30. One deals with the introduction of offsets in relation to destruction of Natural Heritage System features and the other with the merging of the PPS and the Place to Grow growth plan for southern Ontario. It was agreed that we would respond to both.
Action: Paul to circulate draft comments for review and finalization before December 30.
New updated content: 2023-01-16 11:49:18
Ontario Bill 23, Building More Homes Faster
The GA submitted comments on the final two part of Bill 23 prior to the December 30 deadline, dealing with the introduction of offsets in relation to destruction of Natural Heritage System features and with the merging of the PPS and the Place to Grow growth plan for southern Ontario. A brief discussion of further steps ensued. Daniel reported on a review of the Bill by the Auditor General of Ontario as a possible follow up. Other channels for ongoing involvement will be explored.
