Councillors here believe there is not enough information yet to offer an opinion on a proposal for the development of the former Arthur Public School.
Last month, Wellington North councillors were asked for comments from the Wellington County planning and development committee. Proponents of the development are asking for an irregularly shaped parcel as a severance in the centre of the property to allow exterior properties to be sold as freehold properties.
Councillor John Matusinec cited part of the severance consent form, which stated council was unsure if severances are appropriate until the development plan for the whole property has been finalized, because it would affect storm water management and servicing.
Manager of Public Works Gary Williamson explained that the comments were made by township staff. The municipality is also asking that any new entrances abide by the township’s entrance policy and that the owner satisfy the municipal requirements for parkland dedication.
A letter submitted to the planning and land division committee by Donna Kunkel and Barbara Shantora said the area is comprised of primarily single family residential dwellings, a senior citizens’ residence, and farmland.
“Therefore we feel that it is important for this new development to respect and stay in keeping with the existing makeup of the area.”
They asked the following items be taken into account:
– that the property should not be approved for high density or commercial buildings;
– the height of any structures should not exceed the height of existing buildings in the neighbourhood;
– the development should not be approved for the purpose of supplying low-cost rental housing;
– sufficient on-site parking should be provided to avoid street parking and impeding smooth traffic flow in the area.
Matusinec said that at the last public meeting, “It was made clear there was still a lot of work to be done [on the proposal].”
Councillor Dan Yake agreed, “There are too many questions to let it move ahead as is.”
But, he asked, “What happens to it now?”
He said his concern is the project does not proceed without answering concerns that have been raised.
Meetings are planned with the proponents in the new year.
