This week’s Joint Planning and Housing Committee and the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee lasted just over 5 hours and featured discussions involving 15 delegations concerning the New Zoning By-law – Draft 1. This by-law is shaped by the policies outlined in the Official Plan and significantly affects various aspects such as housing supply, affordability, and neighbourhood development. Zoning regulations determine the permissible land uses, spanning from residential to commercial to recreational areas. These permissions have a profound impact on community well-being and the city’s growth trajectory.
In Bay Ward, two Secondary Plans are being devised, The Lincoln Fields Secondary Plan and the Pinecrest Queensview Secondary Plan, aligning with both the City’s Official Plan and Provincial Policy. Once finalized, these plans will dictate future development in the area. During the recent meeting, I expressed concerns to the staff regarding tailoring zoning permissions to these Secondary Plans. Staff assured us they are devising a method to ensure that the zoning aligns with the vision outlined in these plans, facilitating a smooth transition for the upcoming changes.
The permissions outlined in the Zoning By-law also play a crucial role in fostering affordable housing. While the staff report acknowledges the issue of affordable housing, it’s important to ensure that simply increasing housing stock doesn’t guarantee affordability. Encouraging the development of non-profit housing through new zoning permissions is essential. Although specific details were not provided by the staff, broadening permissions for affordable housing providers to build is a step in the right direction. Additionally, expanding permissions for supportive housing and group homes will enable the construction of more homes across the city.
Furthermore, the new Zoning By-laws aim to dismantle traditional silos by allowing housing in unconventional areas such as above transit stations and permitting commercial spaces in previously restricted zones. This aligns with the Official Plan’s policies, which advocate for co-location of housing with City facilities and the introduction of mixed-use spaces in neighbourhoods. Such changes may see a resurgence of neighbourhood amenities like coffee shops or corner stores, enhancing community vibrancy.
Overall, the expansion of zoning permissions and simplification of existing regulations mark a positive stride forward as the city’s population grows and the concept of 15-minute communities gains momentum. Ottawa Public Health has voiced support for these zoning changes, recognizing the importance of mixed-use neighbourhoods in combating social isolation and fostering community cohesion.
The upcoming release of the proposed Draft Text by staff on May 31st, 2024, will pave the way for further consultation on the New Zoning By-law from June 2024 to Q3 2025. My office, along with two other Ward Councillors, is actively planning a Public Open House to engage residents in the consultation process. My office will post information on the upcoming consultation meeting in my newsletter once a time and date is confirmed.